• Welcome to The Building Code Forum

    Your premier resource for building code knowledge.

    This forum remains free to the public thanks to the generous support of our Sawhorse Members and Corporate Sponsors. Their contributions help keep this community thriving and accessible.

    Want enhanced access to expert discussions and exclusive features? Learn more about the benefits here.

    Ready to upgrade? Log in and upgrade now.

M1307 Elevation of ignition source

righter101

Gold Member
Joined
Dec 5, 2009
Messages
604
Any thoughts on the elevation of a washing machine in a garage or adjacent room (not part of living space). It seems the motor could potentially produce spark as an "ignition source".

Are these units sealed motors or does it vary from unit to unit??

I know our state building code council ruled that outlets are not considered ignition sources.

Just curious what everyone's thoughts are .
 
When I was in Fl it was quite common for the washer and dryers to be in the garage.

Yes we required them to be on a platform

anything that can produce a spark is a form of ignition
 
Even the electrical receptacles & cord connection could be considered a source

of ignition when the cords are plugged in!
 
globe trekker said:
Even the electrical receptacles & cord connection could be considered a sourceof ignition when the cords are plugged in!
I have an interpretation from our State Building Code Council that says outlets/receptacles are not.

I have always considered the Washer (motor) and Dryer (motor/heating element) as ignition sources. I had someone who is asking about it because the inspector wrote them up.

It even said it on the plans to elevate them.

Just wanted to make sure we weren't being over zealous or misapplying the code.
 
Remember it is the sorce of ignition that has to meet the 18" requirement. I have looked at some units where the motors and contacts are mounted 8 to 10 inches above the bottom of the unit.

With the new platforms they sell it sould be easy to meet the requirement
 
Back
Top