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Thursday, June 6, 2019
Question:
Re: CQD answer published May 16 and May 24, 2019 -Range Receptacle Location
Charlie,
Thanks for the continued excellence in code interpretation. Not to flog this pony any more than we already have, but it is possible that the receptacle mentioned on May 16, 2019 was located above the surface of the gas range. In that event the inspector may have requested it be lowered to prevent subjecting the cord assembly to damage from contact with hot surfaces or open flames. It’s a common situation I see as an electrical inspector and often make requests to have the receptacle re-located to prevent damage and potential unsafe conditions.
Keep up the great work, I look forward to your response.
Vaughn Langless
A
Answer:
Hey Vaughn thanks for your comment and the kind words. It would be a judgment decision of the AHJ but you are correct flexible cords are not allowed where they are subject to physical damage as stated in 400.12(7). But I seem to vaguely remember older ranges that had a 125 volt integral receptacle in the "backsplash", any power supply cord plugged into it would be very exposed to physical damage and hot surfaces and That was when the rules for locating receptacles was much simpler than now and pennies were used to keep fuses from operating.