code and access

[billconner]

I'm changing gas insert surround to tile. There's a plug and cord connection which was behind a couple of metal panels. I'm considering one piece of removable tile (clip or Velcro or similar) which would be about 16 x 7. I tested opening behind tile and easy to get to plug.

It's a typical framed chase on exterior, and possible I could add an access directly under plug and receptacle. Does that meet code? Was thinking 4" hole saw and a dev test plug or similar.

Thanks!

 

[rlitman]

So you want to hide the outlet with a tile? So long as it's removable, that's not a code issue. Sounds to me like a home-made hidden access door.

 

[billconner]

Thank you but I should have been clearer. I'd prefer exterior access panel - not sure it's legal. Tile is second choice.

 

[sparky 1971]

Your idea will work. The NEC's definition of accessible is "Capable of being removed or exposed without damaging the building structure of finish or not permanently closed in by the structure or finish of the building". If there is an access panel, you are good to go.

 

[rlitman]

Thank you but I should have been clearer. I'd prefer exterior access panel - not sure it's legal. Tile is second choice.

Exterior access opens up a can of worms. Now you've got the weather and insect sealing, plus the damp location electrical issues, and if you end up running cordage through the walls (what are you plugging in?), that's a big no-no.

 

[billconner]

Thanks Sparky. What I thought just wasn't sure exterior access was ok.

rlitman - Access is under a horizontal projection and just to get a hand in to plug and unplug - if ever - so no water. No cords through walls, just access to plug and receptacle within chase. I don't know what I'll find when I remove vinyl soffit material, but thinking tight fitting test plug or maybe just plywood and screws.

 

[alfredeneuman]

No cords through walls, just access to plug and receptacle within chase.

I'd think that a chase would like above a ceiling, where cords are prohibited.
(the reasoning is that the cord is not visible for it's entire length)

 

[PoorUB]

I'm changing gas insert surround to tile. There's a plug and cord connection which was behind a couple of metal panels. I'm considering one piece of removable tile (clip or Velcro or similar) which would be about 16 x 7. I tested opening behind tile and easy to get to plug.

It's a typical framed chase on exterior, and possible I could add an access directly under plug and receptacle. Does that meet code? Was thinking 4" hole saw and a dev test plug or similar.

Thanks!

How abut hard wire it it in? Then put a tile access cover over it?

I assume the electrical is for the gas insert?

 

[billconner]

As a result of deciding no grout is needed, I'm going the removable tile route - clips, magnets, Velcro, whatever - it rests on floor so just a matter of keeping it upright. Tested opening - easy to reach plug and can see it with head near floor.

Gas insert is within an original zero clearance wood fireplace which had fans under "floor", which were plug and cord connected behind a removable vent panel. It seems the receptacle for fans was built into wood fireplace and hard wired. Whomever installed insert just plugged it into that receptacle.

I figured I should add a lable in controls noting this.

 

[alfredeneuman]

Uses Not Permitted:
(5) Where concealed by walls, floors, or ceilings or located
above suspended or dropped ceilings

 

[mike93lx]

Uses Not Permitted:
(5) Where concealed by walls, floors, or ceilings or located
above suspended or dropped ceilings

What's the difference between a wall and a removeable access panel? If the cord is visible the whole way, is it OK?

 

[billconner]

I don't believe it's "concealed" if there is an access panel, which allows it to be accessible, seen, used, and serviced.

 

[alfredeneuman]

If the cord is visible the whole way, is it OK?

I'd say so.

 

[alfredeneuman]

I don't believe it's "concealed" if there is an access panel, which allows it to be accessible, seen, used, and serviced.

Are you going to get an inspection on your work?

 

[sparky 1971]

Are you going to get an inspection on your work?

All he's doing is changing his gas insert surround from whatever it is now to tile. The electrical is already there. I wouldn't bother getting a permit if I had to do the electrical for it, especially if it was my own house

 

[billconner]

As sparky said, I'm only changing finishes which does not require a permit here. But I did ask building department and they said fine. I'm installing a door a few feet away - no permit required - but that requires some wiring changes so when electrical inspector is here for that, I'll ask about this.

Existing access was removing three metal plates - a dozen screws - one 3' x 4' - and new will be removing one piece of tile 16" x 7" probably held in place with Velcro.

 

[alfredeneuman]

Existing access was removing three metal plates - a dozen screws - one 3' x 4' - and new will be removing one piece of tile 16" x 7" probably held in place with Velcro.

Do you know if the existing access was inspected? The existing installation sounds like it would not pass

 

[billconner]

It's exactly per the insert manufacturers instructions, which I found on line and printed. And before the insert, the wood burning fireplace had fans that were plugged into same outlet in the manufactured unit. I'd be pretty sure the new house was permitted and inspected.

My brother and my son are also in the stove and fireplace business. My son especially is a stickler for codes and standards regarding these appliances, is certified for wood, coal, gas, and pellet installation and service, and assured me it's fine. My brother is one of the largest dealers of these products in the north east doing hundreds of installations a year.

And I'll be sure the inspector looks at it, not that the inspectors around here are especially rigorous.