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-   -   What is the wording in the NEC about baseboard heaters below outlets (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=710795)

  • Oct 21, 2012, 06:19 PM
    katonah5
    What is the wording in the NEC about baseboard heaters below outlets
    Insurance in a fire job does not want to pay towards moving existing outlets originally placed above baseboard electric heaters. (or vis-a-versa heaters below outlets) Say they will pay if I can provide wording. Know it should be in section 210-52 branch circuits.
  • Oct 22, 2012, 04:28 AM
    hfcarson
    Katonah,
    Actually the NEC handbook refers to the installation instructions of the baseboard
    Heaters. These instructions prohibit installation of receptacles above the heater which
    Is then enforceable by NEC 110.3(B).
  • Oct 23, 2012, 05:49 AM
    donf
    Basically the NEC is silent on the issue. In both the 2008 (FPN) and 2011 (IFN), attached to NEC 210.52 the NEC points to the instructions that come from the manufacturer of the listed equipment.

    If I understand correctly, the NEC makes the statement by way of NEC 110.3(B) that if those instructions are not followed, then under 110.3(B) you can enforce the correct installation.

    Also, the code does indicate that other sections of the code may have a requirement against installing a baseboard heater under a receptacle, but I have not found one yet.

    Any way, why would this be an insue with the insurance company? The issue should be with the installer of the baseboard heat.

    To me, common sense dictates that you never place a receptacle above a heater because the heat will damage a wire hanging in front of it.
  • Oct 23, 2012, 12:23 PM
    smearcase
    Show them the manufacturer's requirements such as this one from a site that handles Marley heating products.

    " Read Carefully - This Instruction Sheet contains vital
    information for the proper installation, use, and efficient
    operation of the heater. Carefully read the manual before
    installation, operation, or cleaning of the heater. Failure to
    adhere to the instructions could result in fire, electric
    shock, death, serious personal injury, or property damage.
    Save these instructions and review frequently for continuing
    safe operation and instructing future users.
    1. Keep all electrical cords, foam filled articles, drapes, bedding,
    and other household furnishings away from contact with
    heater. It is recommended all items be kept a minimum of
    six (6") inches (152mm) from heater.
    2. Do not install baseboard heater below electrical convenience
    Receptacles (outlets).
    3. Do not install baseboard heater against vinyl wallpaper,
    Paperboard or low density fiberboard surface. Do not install
    vinyl drapes or vinyl blinds above heater.
    4. Do not recess heater in wall.
    5. The installation must comply with applicable Local and National
    Electrical Codes and utility requirements.
    6. Do not remove or by-pass thermal cutout.
    7. To reduce the risk of fire, do not store or use gasoline or
    Other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of the
    Heater.
    8. Personal injury or death could result from electric shock.
    Disconnect all power to heater at main panel before attempting
    To install or service this heater.
    9. Supply voltage must be the same as heater voltage. Check
    Heater nameplate and supply voltage before energizing.
    10. When using RSA Transformer Relay Accessory, supply
    Wiring must be suitable for 90°C.
    !
    1
    File #E37116 "

    Taken from:
    http://cache.air-n-water.com/manuals/q-mark-2515w.pdf

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