Code for a Light inside Walkin Closet

Dec 19, 2006 7 Replies

I have a walkin closet that is approx. 10ft by 4ft and am adding a light to it. When you walk in the closet you make an imediate left. On the right is the shelving and on the left is a wall running down the



10ft. I am adding the light in the middle of the closet not above the door. I know the code is 12" away from the shelves for incandecent and
6" away for fluorescent. My question is how far from the wall on the left do I have to be?


Thanks,



Scott



Actually, the Code defines closet "storage space" as being 12" out from the walls, or the width of the shelves, whichever is *greater* [that's more than 6 feet from the floor; below 6 feet, it's 24"] -- and requires the fixture to be

12" or 6" outside that space, depending on whether it's incandescent or fluorescent. [Note that this is *not* a complete definition of storage space. Consult the Code, Article 410.8, for the full definition.]
6" outside the storage space envelope for fluorescent, or 12" for incandescent. Assuming there are no shelves on that wall, that means 18" or 24" from the wall.

Remarkably complicated article for a simple closet. Your description may be clearer than the code.

Incandescent fixtures have to be totally enclosed. [The space above the door is less restricted, which is useful for small closets; but this closet isn't exactly small.]

-- bud--

So is a ceramic socket with a twisty flourescent bulb in it an incadescant fixture, or a flourescent one?

And does code govern low-voltage flexible electroluminescent tape like this stuff

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at all?

Incandescent. The compact flourescent can be changed to incandescent at any time.

If you have a plug-in power supply that is covered by UL. If hardwired it probably falls under NEC 725 - remote control and limited power. NEC

725 also covers doorbells and furnace thermostats.

-- bud--

When in doubt ask the inspector/building department.

It's *their* opinion that matters!

RickR

closet lights in all closets five square feet or larger. All closet lights shall be recessed or fluorescent with a solid lens covering the bulb.

Are you quoting a code? If so which one?

RickR

electrical > >I have a walkin closet that is approx. 10ft by 4ft and am adding a

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