New York State Master Electrician Practice Exam

Which appliance is allowed to have a 24-inch cord with an attachment ground plug in a dwelling unit?

1. Dishwasher

2. Refrigerator

3. Combination range hood/microwave oven

4. Washing machine

The correct answer is: Combination range hood/microwave oven

The combination range hood/microwave oven is allowed to have a 24-inch cord with an attachment ground plug in a dwelling unit because specific appliance types have different requirements concerning cord lengths and safety. In residential settings, the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides guidelines that accommodate various appliances based on their designated use and installed locations. For an attachment plug and flexible cord, typically, the length is limited for certain appliances to ensure safety, preventing excessive strain on the connection and reducing risks of damage to the cord itself. The combination range hood/microwave oven is designed to be a more compact unit that often necessitates a shorter cord to maintain functional efficiency while also minimizing the potential hazards associated with longer cords. Appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines usually require longer cords due to their larger size and installation requirements, which often dictate a different set of cord length regulations. In summary, the allowance for a 24-inch cord with an attachment ground plug for the combination range hood/microwave oven is a specialized exception based on safety considerations and the practical use of the appliance within a dwelling unit.