…subject to saturation with water or other liquids,…" I feel the area under the sink falls under this description.
Saturated is not a normal condition of use. Using your definition a ceiling fixture would need to be wet rated since the 2nd floor bath could overflow. You do not get to apply your own definitions to the NEC.
4 Likes
Even a receptacle right next to a sink is not in a wet location. There would be a greater likelihood of that being hit with water than anything under the sink.
2 Likes
Ceiling fixtures are outlets, not receptacles. If you watch the discussion in the video I posted, you will see the electricians arguing many of the statements made in this thread. It will be interesting to see if the NEC updates in 2023 state that all receptacles in the house need to be GFCI protected. Maybe even all recepticals need to be AFCI protected.
Thanks for that information…I kinda looks like the requirement started in 2017 for this situation (inside the cabinet). Is that how you read it?..So if this was an older home it might it would not have been required.
It is probably coming to that eventually, William.
You missed the point. I was pointing out that anything could be considered a wet area using your personal definition . Or are you saying luminares do not have to be rated for wet areas if we apply your definition of a wet area?
I think what’s plugged into the outlet is more important than the actual location of the outlet. Most of these codes were put in place because someone was hurt/killed, or property damage resulted. The kitchen counter outlets are well above the kitchen counter (usually) and most likely will not become saturated. However, most power cords are 6ft long (reason for 6ft rule). Plug a toaster into the outlet and drop it in the sink and you have a big problem. What is plugged into the outlet under the kitchen sink? Garbage disposal and/or dishwasher. Both of these units are actually submerged in water. If a short occurs in the dishwasher and someone touches the door, they could be shocked. If a short occurs in the garbage disposal and you’re using the sink, you could be shocked. When I see an outlet under a sink, I will strongly suggest it be GFCI protected.
I’m sure that will convince a lot of people!
Portable kitchen appliance cords are 2 foot.
The NEC differs with you. It does not matter what is plugged into the countertop receptacles. Gfi protection is required for the countertop receptacles. Gfi protection is also required for the DW.
1 Like