» Residential Wiring Codes
» Residential Electrical Wiring: Guide to Home Wiring
» Need Electrical Help? Get a Quick Reply! Ask the Electrician
Electrical Code - Ceiling Fan Boxes
|
Summary: This article explains the Electrical Wiring Code for the Boxes that support Ceiling Fans, also known as Paddle Fans. |
Installing Electrical Wiring Boxes for a Ceiling Fan or Paddle Fan
Electrical Codes for Ceiling Fan Support
Ceiling fans weigh more than most ceiling fixtures. Therefore ceiling fans must be supported properly to prevent them from falling.
To properly install a ceiling fan and provide the necessary support there are two methods that must be followed:
An approved fixture box designed to support the weight of the ceiling fan must me installed.
The fixture box must be attached to supported structure components such as wood ceiling joists or wood blocks that are properly fastened between two ceiling joists.
Approved ceiling fixture boxes that have expandable bar hanging devices can be used when installed by following the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
Electrical Code |
Electrical Boxes for Ceiling Paddle FanWhere a box is used as the sole support for a ceiling paddle fan, the box must be listed for this purpose and include the weight of the fan. Ceiling paddle fans not in excess of 35 lb. can be supported directly to an outlet box that is identified for this purpose [422.18(A)]. Ceiling paddle fans exceeding 35 lb. must be supported independently of the outlet box, unless the box is listed to support the weight of the fan [422.18(B)]. Figure 314-5 |
Image Mike Holt |
|
|
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
|