Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Another NM 90 Question

I am installing a couple of canned lights in place of a recessed fluorescent light area. The wiring is NM and to my surprise the new canned lights with the junction boxes about 6 inches away from the can have the 90 degree wire warning. So can I put a covered junction box along side the can that will be accessible if you remove the can? Of course I would run NM B from the junction box to the can.

I have had inspectors interperate the code both ways when I brough up this solution to similar problems. Best to check first.

IMHO the j box to the fixture must be accessed the same way once it is installled, so why not another in the ceiling above it, but I am not the AHJ in in any area, let alone yours.

I know a man on the interpritation committee, He said no, then I explaind Jeffs point (mine aswell). Got him thinking. But you would need others input to sway him. I've done it, no objections. Ask first.

Howdy,

The junction box within the recess light is at BEST an accessible location in regards it does not require damage to the surface or structure. However, getting to a junction box located up and away from the location is not something I would consider accessible.

Now, if you can make the chase you CAN get to that junction box with no dismantle of the light or damage to the surface....then it would be a local AHJ's call but you would need to bring your case to their attention.

I know in my area that I fill in sometimes as the AHJ.....I would have to see the situation.

CAN get to that junction box with no dismantle of the light or damage to the surface....then it would be a local AHJ's call ##

Do I know you!? Exactly My friends point. I disagree, dismantel for the light connections, Why not another?

He then pointed out the flourescent installed in sheetrock. That would intail removal of said fixture. That is now part of the structure. This I agree with.

My point, not well received, was a can is just a modified access panel.

Again, many variables go into this, Check with the local AHJ.

Most of us have reputations with the AHJ (some good, some otherwise). That does play a role.

Given an option, Don't do it.

AH Wait.....I think I understand you...lol...

You agree it is not something that should be done, I agree and I also know that some remodel cans do not have this notice on them...I would check around in regards to this...see what you can find.

I have (2) cans here......from JUNO that do not have that notice on them so it is quite possible you have the ability to forgo this situation entirely.

The biggest thing here is also I see ALOT of new fixtures being replaced in older homes that had NM rated cable....which is rated at 60 degrees yet the new lights say use NM-B rated for 90 degrees....so how many people actually take notice of this......when doing the remodel.

Interesting enough the fluorescent fixtures that are installed have the warning on them. I was looking at junos and think I was looking at 4 inch and didn't look at others. Back to the candy store to look some more.

In one other case, the inspector would not allow the box above a can light.

We cut in a j box near the can then bought very thin flat round metal covers and painted them to match the texture of the ceiling, which happened to be popcorn.

It was very hard to see the j box unless you were standing right under it looking streight up.

I agree that if the code is not clear and it needs to be interperated then it is up to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to make the call. This is usually the local city or county building dept. They will almost always side with thier electrical inspectors.