LANshack Ask the Expert - Plenum cable

Plenum Cable in Attics and Residential Buildings

Answer: Plenum rated cable is not necessarily made for hotter environments but rather for spaces that bring conditioned air either to or from the main cooling or heating units. In many commercial buildings, the ceiling itself is used to return air back to the cooling or heating units thereby making it a “plenum”. Therefore by Fire code law, all materials used in that ceiling must be rated for plenum spaces. Check with your builder to see if any areas of your home are plenum spaces. It is much rarer to have plenum spaces in residential buildings as compared with commercial buildings. You should also check with your local Building Code Officials to be certain that you are in compliance with the laws.