Code For Electrical Outlets Spacing
Building codes devote a lot of attention to electrical outlet receptacle spacing in and effort to limit the use of extension cords.
Code for electrical outlets spacing. In this article we ll break down the building code for electrical outlets so you can ensure safety and code compliance. Also there is a new nec code for outlet spacing. 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.
120volt 15amp garage circuits are typically wired with 14 2. 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. Figure 1 spacing of electrical outlets along a wall.
This spacing is chosen so that a lamp computer television or other appliance will never be more than 6 feet away from an electrical outlet. Most local codes are based on the national electrical code nec a document that lays out required practices for all aspects of residential and commercial electrical. No point measured along the floor line can exceed 6 feet from an electrical outlet to reduce the need for hazardous extension cords.
See new section 210 71 which basically says do it like 210 52 but the receptacles can be anywhere as long as they are the required amount. Fremont ca residential kitchen electrical receptacle code 210 52 c 2017 pdf. The codes shown are examples only and may not be current or accurate for your application or jurisdiction.
In these spaces wall outlets should be spaced no farther than 12 feet apart. For code purposes general areas are defined as rooms such as living rooms family rooms bedrooms and hallways. Because extension cords increase risk.
The national electric code has another definition for damp locations that is more subjective but if you think the receptacle is going to get wet use an in use. The 6 12 rule are minimums and in theory there is no reason within the code that you could not have an electrical receptacle outlet every foot across the wall space. Height spacing of electrical receptacles or outlets in buildings.