While doing my electrical rough-in inspection the inspector told me that any closet lights need to be 1′ out from the front of any shelf. Has anyone heard of this? My inspector has been known to be wrong before. I’ve got about a 2′ deep closet with 9′ ceilings and I had a can light installed in the center. I guess if it’s true I’ll have to remove the can light and install a light mounted over the door?
Replies
What code? There are thousands of codes all across the country. Since you haven't filled out your profile we have no clue where you're at.
I attached a pic that someone opsted on BT a long time ago about closet lights. But it won't really help yuo a lot - you need to find out what YOUR local code says.
Per national electric code you can't have an incandescent fixture within one foot of a closet shelf or hanging items. The thought being a bulb could burst and start a fire. This effectively means you put flourescents above the doors in all closets...
Ask him about using one of the shower type can trims with a cfl. Ditto what Boss said.
He may be wrong but he is your inspector. Just ask him what alternatives he considers appropriate.
The way I understand code regarding closet lights is, 12" away from shelves and the light must be sealed (ie in a globe not just a lamp base).
that is for incandescent lights. If flourescent or recessed cans things aare different. The concern is hot bulb and ccombustibles on the shelf
Welcome to the
Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
where ...
Excellence is its own reward!
I have a couple of closets (old house) with incandescant fixtures very near the top shelf. It occured to me that regular light bulbs get hot so I use the squiggly fluorescent bulbs. Cheap peace of mind.
Your inspector is correct if you are using an incandescent bulb in the recessed can, the bulb cannot be left exposed.
Two options:
Install a CFL in the can....
Get a trim ring that has a glass diffuser(?) (why is it I have so much trouble remembering the names of things......ever since I hit 50!)
Geoff
An AHJ might not accept a CFL as it can easly be replaced with an incandensent..
.
A-holes. Hey every group has to have one. And I have been elected to be the one. I should make that my tagline.
Bill,
Good point, seems the best way to go would be the trim w/glass diffuser......as opposed to replacing the fixture.
Geoff
In a closet situation, I've always wondered about using under-cabinet lighting? Cheaper 1" thick flourecents up the wall inside the doorframe, or hockey puck xenon lights. I would think it would fill the space better than an overhead that is shining into your eyes.
Anyone do these, or are these verbotten?
Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA
Also a CRX fanatic!
If your hair looks funny, it's because God likes to scratch his nuts. You nut, you.