Code Electrical Outlet Height

As a result heights are often a matter of convention or preference.

Code electrical outlet height. Among other wiring installation details the electrical code specifies how electrical outlets should be spaced and which types of outlets to use in general living areas in bathrooms in kitchens. Although the national electrical code nec has many very precise regulations for most aspects of residential wiring it does not specify one height for standard wall outlets receptacles or for light switches. Electrical receptacle outlets on branch circuits of 30 amperes or less and communication system receptacles shall be located no more than 48 inches 1219 mm measured from the top of the receptacle outlet box nor less than 15 inches 381 mm measured from the bottom of the receptacle outlet box to the level of the finished floor or working platform. Garage electrical outlet location.

Electrical receptacle outlets on branch circuits of 30 amperes or less and communication system receptacles shall be located no more than 48 inches 1219 mm measured from the top of the receptacle outlet box nor less than 15 inches 381 mm measured from the bottom of the receptacle outlet box to the level of the finished floor or working platform. Electrical code and box heights. The national electrical code defines a wet location as an area that is subject to saturation with water or other liquids and unprotected locations exposed to the weather. For convenience outlets such as those fitted in the kitchen you will find that these are around 42 inches in height or over the surface of your work tops.

Introduction to electrical codes for outlets and receptacles nec 210 7 receptacle outlets shall be of the grounding type be effectively grounded and have proper polarity. Most local residential electrical codes are based on the nec the national electrical code a model code that provides guidelines on which local communities can model their own residential codes. However your local electrical code is the ultimate voice with these matters. Section 210 52 of the nec national electric code and the nyc electrical code based on the 2008 nec do not specify a minimum mounting height but you do need to comply with the mounting height.

The codes shown are examples only and may not be current or accurate for your application or jurisdiction. The national electric code doesn t establish a minimum standard outlet height in the basement or in any other part of the house but the rule of thumb followed by most electricians is to place the outlets 16 to 18 inches above the floor. The national electrical code does not have any specific height requirement although it may recommend particular heights depending upon whether you are fitting a commercial or residential outlet. Some states such as california require this minimum height.