Pete C. wrote:
volts500 wrote:

Pete C. wrote:

Another thought since it's been mentioned is furnaces and well pumps.
I'm not aware of any code requirement that they be hardwired. You can
easily and inexpensively make them cord connected devices with dedicated
outlets, allowing you to readily connect them via extension cords to
your generator.

Furnaces have always been required to be hardwired per (2002) NEC
422.16(A), and have a disconnect at the furnace if it is not within
sight of the distribution panel that supplies the circuit. Also, on
old furnaces that have the old combo fuse/switches, the fuse _is_ the
overload protection for the motor. Installing a cord cap and flexible
cord on that equipment would leave the furnace motor without overload
protection when it is plugged into the generator.

WTF are you talking about? I have the 2002 NEC in front of me, open to
article 422.16(a) and it in no way indicates a furnace needs to be
hardwired.

Is a furnace an electrical appliance? (422.1)

Are furnaces FREQUENTLY interchanged?

Are the fastening means and mechanical connections for furnaces
specifically designed to permit _ready_ removal for maintinance and
repair?

If you can answer the last two questions yes, then a flexible cord is
permitted on a furnace, even then it would have to come from the
factory with a flexible cord. Same reason for well pumps, water
heaters, etc.

Better yet, show me the code cite that says that they _don't_ have to
be hardwired.

Quoted from 2002 NEC:

"422.16 Flexible Cords.
(A) General. Flexible cord shall be permitted (1) for the connection
of appliances to facilitate their FREQUENT interchange or to prevent
transmission of noise or vibration or (2) to facilitate the removal or
disconnection of appliances that are fastened in place, where the
fastening means and mechanical connections are SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED to
permit READY removal for maintenance or repair AND the appliance is
intended or identified for flexible cord connection."