Heights of Electrical Outlets Above Floors

Codes

• Though local and state building codes vary because of the needs of their populations, all base their electrical regulations on two standards. The first is the National Electrical Code, which is maintained by the National Fire Protection Association. The second is the International Residential Code, maintained by the International Code Council. The NEC and IRC specify the number of outlets, their amps and circuits, and the horizontal positioning of outlets. However, neither offers any guidance on the height of outlets above floors. Thus, contractors such as Shared Solutions America use their own standard by placing outlets from 12 to 16 inches from the floor as measured from the center of the outlet.

ADA

• Electrical contractors who are working in commercial or public spaces, or residential structures meant for more than two families, must comply with Americans with Disabilities Act standards. The ADA ensures that individuals with disabilities can live their lives as independently as possible. The original version of the ADA had specific height requirements from the floor for wall outlets. But the 2010 revision generalized the height requirements for all reachable points such as outlets and switches. Regulation 308.2.1 and 308.3.1 puts the height of such points at between 15 and 48 inches above the finished floor or ground. This specification allows wheelchair users to reach the outlet from the front or side of their conveyances.

Considerations

• One reason for keeping electrical outlets as close to the floor as possible is aesthetic. These receptacles are not the most attractive features on a wall, and can attract attention if placed at higher level. If they are close to the ground, they do not interrupt wall decor, and can easily be hidden behind pieces of furniture. On the other hand, electrical outlets should remain accessible, which is one reason to position them above any permanent built-ins or structures in the room, such as countertops or cabinets.

IRC

• The IRC does specify the maximum height of outlets above countertops at 20 inches, unless intended for the disabled. If the countertop is intended for the disabled, then the outlet must be no more than 12 inches below the countertop, but only under two conditions. If a location within 20 inches above the countertop is not available, and the countertop does not extend more than 6 inches beyond the base in which the outlet is situated.

NKBA

• The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends two counter heights in the kitchen, with one at between 28 and 36 inches, and another at between 36 to 45 inches. Combining the guidelines for NKBA counters and IRC outlets puts the maximum height of outlets above counters between 48 and 56 inches, or between 56 to 65 inches above the floor. Guidelines for outlets under the counter range from a minimum 16 to 34 inches above the floor or a minimum 24 to 33 inches above the floor.