In clothes closets, surface-mounted incandescent luminaires must have a minimum clearance of how many inches from stored items?

In clothes closets, the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies that surface-mounted incandescent luminaires must maintain a minimum clearance of 12 inches from stored items. This requirement is in place primarily for safety reasons. Incandescent fixtures can generate significant heat during operation, and if they are too close to combustibles like clothing or other materials typically stored in a closet, there is an increased risk of fire hazards.

Maintaining a clearance of 12 inches ensures that the heat produced by the fixture has adequate space to dissipate without igniting any flammable materials nearby. This safety standard is particularly important in residential settings where the risk of fire can impact lives and property. By adhering to this clearance requirement, both the practicality of lighting the closet and the prevention of fire risks are effectively addressed.