How Low Can an Outlet Be on a Basement Wall?

Basement Electrical Systems

• Because basements tend to have less natural light available, you will need to plan for additional artificial lighting to make the space usable for reading, hobbies and everyday activities. This placement may include lighting set into ceiling panels, table lamps and fluorescent lighting for special activities. If the basement is divided into a number of rooms, each room must be designed for its own purpose, such as bedroom areas or bathrooms. One switched lighting outlet is required for each habitable room, according to the Concrete Network website.

Code Requirements

• Local building code requirements often dictate the height and spacing of electrical outlets for basement remodeling projects. Though there are no national codes for the height of electrical outlets on basement walls, these local codes may dictate how low the outlets can be installed depending on your area’s flooding conditions.

Outlet Placement on Walls

• Generally, code requirements demand that electrical outlets be no more than 12 feet apart. A sufficient number of outlets should be available so that you never need more than a six-foot extension cord to plug in any appliance or other item. Though many electricians install outlets 12 inches above the floor, home improvement expert Tim Carter of the Ask the Builder website recommends installation 16 inches above the floor. This placement allows the outlet to be more convenient for plugging in lamps on side tables and near sofas. It also raises the outlet well further above the floor area in case of flooding.

Flooding Hazards

• Newer homes are required to have ground fault circuit interrupters to reduce the risk from water entering electrical outlets. Older types of outlets should be replaced with these safer outlets. If floodwaters rise to the height of electrical outlets in your basement, the danger of shock from electric motors in the furnace, freezer, washer or dryer is high. Shut off all electrical breakers or unscrew fuses. Do not stand in the water to turn off electrical switches. Stand on a dry wood or plastic box that will not conduct electricity. Use a rubber pole to turn off switches. Call your electrical company to turn off power to your house.