Basic Definitions

The following are some basic definitions commonly used in finished basement projects:

CLEANOUT: An accessible opening in the drainage system used for the removal of possible obstruction.

COMBUSTION AIR: The air provided fuel-burning equipment including air for fuel combustion, draft hood dilution and ventilation of the equipment enclosure.

GROUND-FAULT CIRCUIT-INTERRUPTER (GFCI): A device intended for protection of personnel that functions to de-energize a circuit or portion thereof within an established period of time when a current to ground exceeds some predetermined value that is less than that required to operate the overcurrent protective device of the supply circuit.

HABITABLE ROOM: Any room which meets the requirements of the code for sleeping, living, cooking or dining purposes, excluding such enclosed places as closets, pantries, bath or toilet rooms, hallways, laundries, storage spaces, utility rooms and similar spaces.

OVERCURRENT: Any current in excess of the rated current of equipment or the ampacity of a conductor (wire).

OVERCURRENT-PROTECTION DEVICE (CIRCUIT BREAKER): A device designed to open and close a circuit by nonautomatic means and to open the circuit automatically on a predetermined overcurrent without damage to itself when properly applied within its rating.

RECEPTACLE: A receptacle is a contact device installed at the outlet for the connection of a single attachment plug. A receptacle outlet is where one or more receptacles are installed.

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