Electrical Code For Wall Outlet Spacing

Figure 2 electrical outlet spacing in a room.

Electrical code for wall outlet spacing.

2020 national electrical code adoption is delayed. A 20 amp receptacle is designed to accept the special plug on heavier use appliances and if such an appliance plugs into a 15 amp circuit there is a danger of drawing too much power and. 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. There is no danger to installing 15 amp outlet receptacles on a 20 amp circuit in fact this is the standard practice but under no circumstances should a 20 amp receptacle be installed on a 15 amp circuit.

No point measured along the floor line can exceed 6 feet from an electrical outlet to reduce the need for hazardous extension cords. Chapter 1315 of the minnesota state building code adopts a national standard for the installation of electrical wiring apparatus and equipment for electric light heat power technology circuits and systems and alarm and communication systems. The united states national electrical code section 210 52 states that a receptacle outlet must be placed in every kitchen bedroom living room family room and any other area designated has habitable space. For wall requirements you ve got to know the intended function for each room.

Any wall section wider than 2 feet must have a receptacle. Examples of proper electrical outlet locations are shown in our two sketches below courtesy of carson dunlop associates and in the following list of electrical outlet location requirements. There are two broad categories that get a lot of attention and specifics in the code. On the opposite wall there is a doorway in the center of the wall.

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. On the wall that is 11 feet long without the door the code requires 1 electrical receptacle outlet as that receptacle outlet is no more than 6 feet from either perpendicular wall. The codes shown are examples only and may not be current or accurate for your application or jurisdiction. 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.

Electrical codes assume likely locations where electrical devices may be used in homes. Wall receptacles and kitchen countertop receptacles. An electrical outlet must be properly located on the wall according to local electrical codes and the national electrical code.