Q. What does the NEC require regarding outlet boxes intended to support ceiling paddle fans?
See the answer below.
This answer is based on the 2017 NEC.
A. Outlet boxes for a ceiling paddle fan must be listed and marked as suitable for the purpose, and must not support a fan weighing more than 70 lbs. Outlet boxes for a ceiling paddle fan that weighs more than 35 lbs must include the maximum weight to be supported in the required marking [314.27(C)].
If the maximum weight isn’t marked on the box, and the fan weighs more than 35 lbs, the fan must be supported independently of the outlet box. Ceiling paddle fans greater than 70 lbs must be supported independently of the outlet box.
Where spare, separately switched, ungrounded conductors are provided to a ceiling‑mounted outlet box, in a location acceptable for a ceiling‑suspended (paddle) fan in one‑family, two‑family, or multifamily dwellings, the outlet box or outlet box system must be listed for the support of a ceiling‑suspended (paddle) fan.
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About the Author
Mike Holt
Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.