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Monday, March 19, 2018
Question:
Charlie, Good afternoon and thanks for all of insight that CQD provides. CQD often clarifies outstanding debates and if clear, changes previous opinions, of those with open minds. As an inspector and electrical plans examiner, our office is confronted with contractors and home owner builders who stretch the limits of the code and tests our knowledge, and often presses our staff into deep debate. As you are likely aware, there are as many opinions in the room as there are electricians, inspectors and plan reviewers. To the point:
We, and several other jurisdictions our research shows have had a continuous question concerning pre-corded condensate pumps above drop ceilings. Now, being a 134 electrician, I would follow the code to the “T” and purchase condensate pumps that require the electrician to use an approved wiring method for above drop ceilings and provide a proper disconnect. However, many would argue that a “UL” listed molded cord and plug, factory installed to the condensate pump and then subsequently installed above a drop ceiling, plugged into a receptacle, also above the ceiling, is not subject to article 400. NEC 400.7(3)(6)(8)(10) could apply if you consider a condensate pump an appliance needing frequent change or maintenance, or as being “Permitted elsewhere in this Code.” NEC 422.16 would be a good example of “Elsewhere in this Code.” The code council was asked to clarify, but rejected the opportunity stating the AHJ could make the call. Could you take us out of the gray area and bring us to the light?
Vito Congine Jr
A
Answer:
Hey Vito thanks for your question and the kind words. We have addressed this issue several times but apparently there is still some confusion so let's try again. Flexible cords can be used for appliances under the conditions given as stated in 422.16. The language in that section does not address flexible cords above ceilings but 400.12(5) specifically prohibits flexible cords above suspended or dropped ceilings. A change in the 2017 NEC was made to be clear that flexible cord sets and power supply cords are also not allowed in those locations as stated in 400.12.
Maybe additional wording changes to that section or in the product standard would be helpful to emphasize that the permission in 400.10(A) does not remove the restriction above ceilings. Flexible cords can be used with condensate pumps that meet the conditions in 422.16 and 400.10(A)(8) - but not above a suspended or dropped ceiling.