Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: mshields, Location: Boston, MA
Asked on: Friday, April 1, 2011 at 3:39 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:38 am EDT
Question: I have been asked a perennial question. Can we put a receptacle above a suspended ceiling to plug in a condesnate pump.Per NEC, 400.8 my pat answer is "no" not so much because of the receptacle but because of the intended use of a flexible cord up there.I have heard from people who can't back it up, that this rule was some how relaxed and that now we can put receptacles above suspended ceilings. Is there any truth to this.Does it matter if the space is a plenum or not? In this case, it is not a plenum.Thanks,Mike
Can a receptacle be installed above a suspended ceiling?
No, receptacles cannot be installed above suspended ceilings.
NEC Code References
400.8(A) Prohibits flexible cords from being run within or through ceilings or above suspended ceilings. 400.8(B) Exception #1 allows flexible cords to be used for equipment that is located on the ceiling and is not permanently connected. (This exception does not apply to condensate pumps.)Exceptions and Clarifications
Code does not allow for receptacles to be installed above suspended ceilings, regardless of whether the space is a plenum or not. Flexible cords cannot be used to connect condensate pumps that are located above suspended ceilings. Hard-wired connections are required for condensate pumps located above suspended ceilings.
Reasoning
The NEC prohibits flexible cords above suspended ceilings due to safety concerns. Flexible cords are more likely to become damaged or dislodged, creating potential fire and electrical hazards.
Alternative Solutions
To provide power to a condensate pump above a suspended ceiling, consider the following alternatives:
Hard-wire the pump
Run electrical conduit and wiring from the electrical panel to the pump's location.
Use a receptacle below the ceiling
Install a receptacle below the ceiling and run a cord from the receptacle to the pump. This is only acceptable if the pump is permanently connected.
Install a pull chain switch: Connect a pull chain switch to the pump's power source. The switch can be mounted below the ceiling, allowing the pump to be turned on and off without reaching above the ceiling. Flag for review