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Monday, January 24, 2022
Question:
Greetings and thank you for a great forum, considering NEC 210.52(A)(2)(1) with wall space defined as "space unbroken along the floor line by fireplaces" please interpret "fireplace" as to the be the indented opening of the wood or gas burning area of firebrick or metal or the entire wall of hearth area which can be sheetrock, brick, stone, wood, etc.
Thank you.
Kelly Stockwill
A
Answer:
Hi Kelly,
Thanks for the question. The keyword in your question is "interpret" specifically as it applies to the "practical application" of this rule which sometimes requires judgment by the AHJ and installer. It is important to remember the objective is to not leave wall space or areas without the required receptacle outlets in that space. For the purpose of applying the fireplace measurements, it would often be the actual width that breaks the wall space, which obviously varies from installation to installation. This is one of those gray areas in the Code where a cookie-cutter approach often fails. From here without seeing a specific installation, it would be best to get with the installer and come to a reasonable and practical agreement in achieving the relief offered by this section for a fireplace, but still ending up with a receptacle(s) to meet the general intent (objectives) of 210.52(A)(2).