What is UL 499 Ed.14?

UL 499 Ed.14, also known as the Standard for Household Electric Appliances, is a technical standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). It sets forth safety requirements for various household electric appliances, ensuring their safe use in households. This article will provide a thorough of UL 499 Ed.14, including its purpose, scope, and key requirements.

Purpose of UL 499 Ed.14

The primary purpose of UL 499 Ed.14 is to ensure the safety of household electric appliances. These appliances can pose potential hazards if not designed, manufactured, and used properly. UL 499 Ed.14 focuses on identifying and addressing these hazards, providing manufacturers with guidelines to follow during the design and production process. By complying with this standard, manufacturers can assure consumers that their products adhere to strict safety standards.

Scope of UL 499 Ed.14

UL 499 Ed.14 covers a wide range of household electric appliances. These include, but are not limited to, refrigerators, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, coffee makers, toasters, and microwave ovens. The standard specifies safety requirements for both corded and cordless appliances, taking into consideration potential electrical, mechanical, and thermal hazards. It also addresses risks associated with contact between humans and live parts, protection against excessive heat, and resistance to fire. Additionally, UL 499 Ed.14 provides guidance on labeling requirements and user instructions.

Key Requirements

To meet the requirements of UL 499 Ed.14, household electric appliances must undergo rigorous testing and evaluation. The standard mandates compliance with specific safety criteria, such as insulation resistance, endurance under abnormal conditions, and protection against electric shock. It also requires appliances to be constructed from materials that are flame retardant and non-toxic. Furthermore, UL 499 Ed.14 emphasizes the importance of proper grounding, ensuring that appliances are safely connected to electrical systems.