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Topic: General purpose receptacle

User: dec, Location: Chapel Hill, NC

Asked on: Thursday, March 17, 2011 at 9:54 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 2:58 am EDT

Question: Is there a restriction in the NEC concerning the installation of a duplex receptacle above a fireplace?

Yes, there is a restriction in the National Electrical Code (NEC) concerning the installation of a duplex receptacle above a fireplace.

NEC 406.5(C)(4) states that receptacles shall not be installed above fireplaces or similar openings. This restriction applies to all types of fireplaces, including gas, wood-burning, and electric fireplaces.The purpose of this restriction is to prevent the installation of receptacles in locations where they could be damaged by heat or flames from the fireplace. Receptacles that are installed above fireplaces can also be a tripping hazard, as people may not be able to see them clearly due to the glare from the fireplace. Flag for review

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