Electric wires through AC Ducts

Specific Inspection Topics Electrical Inspections
1
  1. Is there a code against this?

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2

Hi Bill, yes there is.

There used to be an exception for return air chases between joists but I believe that has now gone as well.

[Correction] Bill here’s the code (2008):
**
NEC 300.22 **Type NM cable shall not be installed in spaces specifically fabricated for
environmental air, but may pass perpendicular through joist or stud spaces used as such.

Regards

Gerry

3

Bill
I write it up just because it not a good idea to have wires running in duct work do to fires and melting wire , another problem is the drastic changes of temperature will effect the insulation of the wires, Seeing we are not code keeper but observers I would write up needs review of qualified license contractor CYA. It also depends on local codes

4

Thanks Gerry.

5

I forgot to mention the vibration wearing through the insulation

6

I see conduit, not NM cable. If it is an actual conduit run there is no issue.

The fire issue is moot because fires happen everywhere, not just in ducts.

7

I would almost bet that conduit is not run through

8

Could be. That is why I wrote “If it is…”. :wink:

9

Good catch Pete, I missed that :frowning:

Regards

Gerry

10

To tell the truth i did too but i had a quick recover lol
I just feel it is not a good practice