The maximum spacing between receptacles, according to the National Electric Code (NEC), has been set at 12-feet since 1956–with no point along a wall being more than 6-feet from a receptacle. The logic behind that number is that an appliance with a standard length cord could then be plugged-in anywhere along the wall.
What is the maximum distance between outlets?
12 feet
Since the maximum distance to a receptacle is 6 feet (1.8 meters), the maximum distance between two receptacles is doubled. Therefore, the maximum distance between receptacles is 12 feet (3.6 meters).
Can I put two outlets next to each other?
Electrical codes don’t normally limit how close they can be, rather the maximum distance between them. Where I live, the maximum is 12 feet (the same as the National Electrical code), and every room, regardless of size must have at least one outlet.
What is code for outlet spacing?
The US National Electrical Code, Section 210.52, states that there should be an electrical outlet in every kitchen, bedroom, living room, family room, and any other room that has dedicated living space. They must be positioned at least every twelve feet measured along the floor line.
How many outlets can be on a wall?
According to US regulations, no single point measured along the floor line of the room walls should be more than 6 ft away from an electrical outlet. This means that a standard, 12 x 14 ft room needs at least 4 to 6 electrical outlets, depending on the wall space.
How far should outlets be from the floor?
Standard Height for Outlet Boxes
The standard height for wall outlet boxes is about 12 inches from the top of the floor covering to the bottom of the receptacle box (or 16 inches to the top of the box).
How far does an outlet have to be from a corner?
The National Electrical Code requires that you have an electrical outlet within 6 feet of the corner of the wall and at least 12 feet from the same wall.
Can you daisy chain outlets?
You can daisy-chain a GFI just like a regular receptacle, with one difference. The incoming wires must connect to the “line” terminals while the outgoing wires must connect to “load.”
Can outlets be too close?
Outlet Spacing in General Living Areas
Article 210.52(A)(1) states: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. Spacing outlets more frequently is allowed, but it is not required by code.
How close together can junction boxes be?
Article 334.30 states that cables coming out of the junction boxes should be secured within 12 inches of the box in all boxes equipped with cable clamps.
How many outlets can I put on a 20 amp circuit?
ten outlets
The answer to the question how many outlets on a 20 amp circuit is ten outlets. Always comply with the 80% circuit and breaker load rule, allowing a maximum load of 1.5 amps per receptacle. Remember that your circuit, wire sizes, and outlets must be compatible to avoid overheating and electrical hazards.
How many outlets should be in a house?
In the average American home, there are 75 electrical outlets. While most of these are typical three-prong, 15-amp outlets, there are many other options. If you want to work in electrical construction and maintenance, you will need to understand each of these commonly used electrical outlets and their applications.
Where should outlets be placed in a garage?
Many contractors place outlets 12 to 18 inches above the floor because that height suits most people, not because the NEC demands it. That being said, the American Disabilities Act expects homeowners to place wall receptacles at least 15 inches above the floor.
How many outlets can be on a 15 amp breaker?
8 outlets
Technically, you can have as many outlets on a 15 amp circuit breaker as you want. However, a good rule of thumb is 1 outlet per 1.5 amps, up to 80% of the capacity of the circuit breaker. Therefore, we would suggest a maximum of 8 outlets for a 15 amp circuit.
How many outlets can you put on a 14 2 wire?
12 outlets
You can use 14-2 wire to 12 outlets that are protected by a 15 Amp breaker.
What is code height for electrical switches?
48 inches
Many builders position switch boxes so the bottom of the box is 48 inches above the floor. To satisfy the accessibility requirements of the Fair Housing Act, however, the switch itself should be no more than 48 inches from the floor.
Why do electricians install outlets upside down?
Electricians may position the outlet in an upside-down position so that you can quickly identify the switch-controlled receptacle. Since it stands out visually to most people right away it provides convenience to the occupants to easily remember which outlet is switch controlled.
How high should outlets be in bathroom?
There are no set rules for the height of receptacles on walls or over counters, even in a bathroom. Good practice is to keep them at least 4 inches above a counter top or backsplash and not directly over a sink or under a window.
Are outlets allowed in baseboards?
But there is a better way. By installing electrical outlets in the baseboard molding of your home they can seamlessly integrate into a design element that almost camouflages the outlet. By doing this small detail, you can eliminate the presence of noticeable unsightly cords and wires from your home.
What is the spacing for electrical outlets 6?
12 ft.
Wall receptacles serve spaces for 6 ft. on each side of receptacle. Therefore, max. spacing between wall receptacles is 12 ft.
How close to a sink can an outlet be?
3 feet
Every bathroom must have at least one electrical outlet. It must be a GFCI, and it must be within 3 feet of the edge of the sink. Either behind or beside the sink is acceptable — across from the sink on an opposite wall is not. If the bathroom has two sinks, each must have an electrical receptacle within 3 feet.
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