National Electrical Installation Standards

Standards as High as Your Own

 
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Thursday, December 1, 2022

Question:

Dear Code Question of the Day, does the code allow a cord and plug connection to a fixed in place furnace? It appears that if the furnace is listed for that application, that it would be acceptable. I don't know how many, if any, manufacturers would approve that type of installation. Thank you for the forum, I look forward to reading it every morning! Thank You, Jerry Davidson
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Answer:

Hi Jerry, glad to hear you are enjoying the Code Question of The Day. Regarding cord and plug connection of a furnace, it may be permitted depending on the equipment. Additionally, there a few conditions that need to be met to achieve compliance with this type of installation. Here are some code Sections that may help in determining if it would be permitted:

  • Section 400.10(7), (8), & (10) would allow for the cord and plug connection of a furnace.
  • Section 422.16(A)(2) addresses/permits the use of cord connection of general appliances fixed in place if they the  appliance is identified for flexible cord connection.
  • Section 422.31(C) generally permits the use of a Cord and Plug connection for an appliance disconnect.
  • Furnaces have an electric blower motor, Section 422.31(C) and 430.109(F) provides guidance on when a cord connection can be used as the disconnecting means for appliances with motor loads.

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