Originally Posted By: kmcmahon This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Most furnaces have a shutoff switch for servicing, however today I had one that was just plugged into an outlet. Is this ok? Can’t find anything on it. I’ve never seen one just plugged in before, but I suppose you can just unplug the unit for servicing.
Originally Posted By: dvalley This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Kevin,
I don't do codes. But if this were my inspection, my report would state....Recommend electrician to permanently install (hardwire) power cord at furnace electrical supply.
Originally Posted By: jsavino This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
The furnace requires a dedicated circuit. A switch must be hard wired at the top of the stairs, (if the furnace is in the basement) or outside the utility room. But a switch is not required at the furnace, but only installed for the convenience of the service tech.
Originally Posted By: cmccann This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
John, Not sure what the codes are in NY, but I have never seen a furnace cut off switch at the top of the stairs to a basement. 99% of the homes I inspect have basements, and 100% of the time the furnace has a dedicated switch at the furnace. Do you have some sort of Reference I can look at?
Originally Posted By: kmcmahon This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
jsavino wrote:
The furnace requires a dedicated circuit. A switch must be hard wired at the top of the stairs, (if the furnace is in the basement) or outside the utility room. But a switch is not required at the furnace, but only installed for the convenience of the service tech.
Actually, the switch must be located somewhere along the route out of the space the furnace is in.
Originally Posted By: aslimack This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I believe John refers to an oil fired system when he mentions the top of the stairs for the safety switch. For gas fired, i think the best case is within reach of the unit.
Originally Posted By: kmcmahon This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Adam, you are correct. It’s oil fired that require a shutoff at the top of the stairs. In electric furnaces or boilers the breaker can be used as the shutoff.
I do believe the AHJ regulates this and it may be different in each area.
Originally Posted By: jpope This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
kmcmahon wrote:
Most furnaces have a shutoff switch for servicing, however today I had one that was just plugged into an outlet. Is this ok? Can't find anything on it. I've never seen one just plugged in before, but I suppose you can just unplug the unit for servicing.
Standard, forced air, gas fired furnace? That's about all we have out here and they are never equipped with a shut off. Just a plug to a receptacle.
-- Jeff Pope
JPI Home Inspection Service
"At JPI, we'll help you look better"
(661) 212-0738
Originally Posted By: rsummers This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
It must be a California thing Jeff I have installed a couple of thousand furnaces in my neck of the state and they are all plugged in with a 20 amp cord.
Originally Posted By: jpope This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
rsummers wrote:
It must be a California thing Jeff I have installed a couple of thousand furnaces in my neck of the state and they are all plugged in with a 20 amp cord.