Dishwasher Soap Dispenser BrokenWhat To Do? Meets both UL and NEC requirements. If your outlet is placed too high, you may have a problem plugging in appliances like your coffee maker or toaster. Question Answered by John Williamson, Chief Electrical Inspector,Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, John Williamson has been in the electrical industry for 40 years and is a licensed master electrician and certified building official. how close can I put a countertop receptacle to a gas cooktop. Either in the center of the top cabinets and countertops or where it doesn't interfere with the backsplash design. Less conspicuous than a side or end outlet, they can also be used for small appliances or chargers. ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE COUNTERTOP SPACING at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice. more than 12 inches (300 mm) below the countertop. How To Clean Garbage Disposal Trap And Drain, How To Clean Clogged Dishwasher Spray Arms, How To Reset KitchenAid Refrigerator Control Panel, How To Reset A Samsung Ice Maker In 4 Steps. You can also hide an outlet by changing its appearance. The average countertop height is 36 inches. Not sure where to begin? Receptacle outlets shall be located in one or more of the following: (1) On or above countertop or work surfaces: On or above, but not more than 500 mm (20 in.) Details about spacing, height, and clearance for receptacles are provided in this article. Only receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops or work surfaces can be installed in the countertop. Apologies for the delay. For perspective, in bathrooms, this distance is three feet. No point along the countertop is more than 24" from a receptacle. Whether you want laminate or granite, flecks of grays or variations of beige, high gloss or matte, your island countertop can transform your kitchen space into a conversation piece. There isn't a minimum requirement for the height of an outlet on a kitchen counter, but there is a maximum requirement. Incorrect installations of countertop outlets may lead to repair and remodeling costs. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2020 NEC edition of NFPA 70. Receptacles are placed no more than 48 apart. So, if you're wondering how high they should be placed on the wall, you've come to the right place. where food is likely to be served. Code Change Summary: Reorganized code language on receptacle placement in kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, dining rooms, and similar areas of dwelling units. mm above), the countertop. Based on the 2020 NEC, which of the following is true? When installing light switches and outlets above your kitchen counter, it's not a good idea to place them randomly or wherever you see fit. room, dining room, or other similar areas cord could be placed anywhere along the countertop,and the supply cord could reach a receptacle outlet in either direction. You can also purchase outlet covers, so the outlets are completely covered when not in use. 210.52(C)(4). Countertop spaces separated by range tops, refrigerators, or sinks shall be considered as Counters that are attached to stub or pony walls that extend above the countertop shall have the number receptacles beyond its support base. peninsular countertop is measured from the connecting edge. This maximum height is because small appliances you might have on your counter should not require an extension cord to be used. Any receptacle can be installed in a countertop surface. Receptacle outlets rendered not readily accessible by appliances fastened in place, appliance There is no minimum height requirement for outlets above a kitchen counter. Exception: To comply with the conditions specified in (1) or (2), receptacle outlets shall be permitted to be mounted not Email us at [emailprotected]. Our Comment Box is provided by Countable Web Productions countable.ca, Click to Show or Hide Citations & References, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE CODE, ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE POSITION: WHICH WAY UP, ELECTRICAL OUTLET, HOW TO ADD in OLDER HOME, ELECTRICAL WIRE CLEARANCE FROM DUCTS & PIPES, ARTICLE INDEX to ELECTRICAL INSPECTION & TESTING, HOME INSPECTION EDUCATION COURSES (Canada), HOME INSPECTION EDUCATION: HOME STUDY COURSES. There is no code requirement for the height of a light switch in any room. Its always good to adhere to the codes to avoid any future hassle and unwanted expenses. The only code you have to make sure you follow is the outlet not being installed greater than 20 inches from the top of the countertop. Try the search box just below, or if you prefer, post a question or comment in the Comments box below and we will respond promptly. Well review the number and placement of outlets in every room, your panel needs, and so much more. If this sounds like something you might suffer from, you should also keep in mind that the countertops in your kitchen do not have to be equal in height. If you don't mind having a drawer or cabinet open while you use an appliance, this might be a good option for you. It's easily accessible and easily hidden. Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. A receptacle outlet shall be installed at each wall counter space that is 12 inches Worried about leaving out a crucial component? Whether it's from cooking or washing dishes, you may suffer from back or neck pain if your countertops are too low if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen. (2) On island and peninsular countertops where the countertop is flat across its entire surface (no backsplashes, There are height recommendations for accessibility, discussed elsewhere in this article series. Countertops of 12 or more wide get a receptacle. Read on to learn more. below the countertop or work surface. We have no relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or needing to completely rewire one, you may be wondering where exactly the outlets and light switches should be. Unit includes: To operate, simply press down on the top and the unit pops up to access two GFCI power outlets rated 15A/125VAC. The previous requirements have not really changed but are much easier to read. The choice is ultimately up to you. At least one receptacle outlet shall be installed at each island counter space with Please check with your electrician to verify that this unit meets your local code before installing. mm) measured horizontally from a receptacle outlet in that space. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. beyond its support base. Update your kitchen with our in-stock and special order countertop options. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. We'll also answer some other questions you might have about your kitchen outlets and light switches, including whether they can be installed in the countertop as well. Electrical codes vary by location. Where a are considered separate countertop spaces and require a receptacle outlet. space with a long dimension of 24 inches (600 mm) or greater and a short dimension of 12 inches (300 mm) or greater. kitchen must be supplied by at least two Kitchen islands are popular in larger kitchens and can be used for various tasks. in my OPINION it is safer to avoid putting an electrical receptacle right over the stove as well as where its cord could be damaged by a stove or range top burner. A receptacle within 24 of a countertop can help. garages, or appliances occupying dedicated space shall not be considered as these required outlets. These outlets are the most visible. Receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops or work surfaces shall be permitted to be installed in countertops or work surfaces. The electrical codes don't give a required horizontal distance from a range or cooktop in a kitchen to the electrical receptacle. Receptacle outlets need to be installed so that no point along the wall line is more than 24-inches (measured horizontally) from a receptacle outlet in that space. (1) Construction for the physically impaired. Such questions about countertop outlet spacing requirements are common. The NFPA's code 406.5(E) allows for outlets to be installed into the counter. however even though some electric ranges actually were sold with an 120V receptacle built right into the range's upright back panel. Should Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Match Faucet? For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. as an overhead cabinet. As with light switches, some designers/homeowners choose to put the switch where it fits best visually. For the past 25 years John has also provided electrical code consultation to various book and magazine publishers, Do you have a question that you would like our electrical inspector to answer? See the actual NEC text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Laminate is a durable and affordable solution for your countertop needs. Countertop spaces interrupted or separated by built-inrangetops, sinks, refrigerators, etc. greater then 12 inches wide or greater then 18 inches from the deepest part of the corner mounted sink or range. 20 ampere circuits [210-11(c)(1) and space can accommodate a toaster, coffeemaker or other small appliance. ampere receptacles used for countertop For example, if you have a light above the sink or you have a garbage disposal, you will need to be able to turn those on without walking away from the sink. surface appliances in a dwelling unit For outlets along countertops, it is important to note the following: Small appliances intended for use on a kitchen counter or in a similar location usually come with a 24 cord from the manufacturer. Hopefully, our article has helped you realize that you have quite a bit of flexibility when it comes to where you can put kitchen outlets and light switches. Cords on small appliances are short to avoid accidents. Some kitchen islands have sinks, while others are also used as bar seating. Then close to hide away nearly flush with the surface when not in use. John has worked for the state of Minnesota for over 23 years and is the Chief Electrical Inspector. OPINION: (not "code") for maximum distance above the kitchen countertop to a receptacle top: I don't like to see receptacles jammed up high tight under the bottom of overhead cabinets. installed as required by this section. We have more dangling wires and less convenience. You'll want tor review other receptacle clearance distances given at, ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE HEIGHT & CLEARANCES. Height & spacing of electrical receptacles or "outlets" in buildings: Requirements for electrical receptacle (outlet or wall plug) spacing, height, and clearances in buildings. (3) Below countertop or works surfaces: Not more than 300 mm (12 in.) Our affordable, real granite countertops can transform your kitchen and give it an ultra-classy look without burning a hole in your wallet. Some people choose to place their switches halfway between the top cabinets and countertops to make it visually appealing. Using the City of Fremont, California electrical code (2016, cited below) as an example: 125 volt, 15, or 20 Receptacle outlets shall be located on or above, but not more than 500 mm (20 in.) Kitchen island outlets can go on the end or one of the sides of the island, underneath the overhang, inside a drawer or cabinet, or as a popup on top of the island. It's essential to keep in mind, though, that your countertop does not need to be this height. Electrical receptacles (also called electrical outlets or "plugs" or "sockets") are simple devices that are easy to install, but there are details to get right if you want to be safe. Surface outlets can provide more outlets easily. Longer cords or extension cords can cause an increased risk of fires and electrocution. Maximum height above countertop to receptacle: 20", Minimum height above countertop to receptacle: 15", Receptacles should be above the backsplash if a separate, low backsplash is installed, Our recommended books about building & mechanical systems design, inspection, problem diagnosis, and repair, and about indoor environment and IAQ testing, diagnosis, and cleanup are at the. Receptacle outlets rendered not readily accessible by appliances fastened in place, appliance garages, sinks, or range tops as covered in 210.52(C)(1), Exception, or appliances occupying assigned spaces shall not be considered as these required outlets. Find what matches your style and best accommodates the needs of your family. PCS Hole Size Chart - Select Grommet based on hole size, Classic Round Plastic Grommets Flip-Top Tab, Drawer Pulls, Cabinet Knobs & Door Handles, Door Handles, Barn Door Hardware & Appliance Pulls, Kitchen Power for Countertops & Wet Areas, Drawer Pulls, Cabinet Knobs & Door handles, Acoustic Panels and Privacy Screen Brackets, Heavy Duty Work Surface & Counter Supports, Pop-Up Kitchen Power Grommet 15A Countertop GFI Outlets, Skip to the beginning of the images gallery. Can Kitchen Drawers Be Converted To Soft Close? (300 mm) or wider. dividers, etc.) UL File No. The outlet's manufacturer will state whether it is suitable for countertops, so, as long as you've chosen an outlet that says it is specifically for a countertop, you're fine to install it. In general electrical receptacles are installed along building walls such that at no point along the wall is the distance to the nearest electrical receptacle more than six feet - i.e. For more reading, check out these other blog posts: How To Arrange Appliances On A Kitchen Counter. No point along the countertop is more than 24 from a receptacle. 210.52(C)(5) Receptacle Outlet Location. It's important to consider any code requirements and the practical applications of the switches or outlets. UL listed and tested to meet UL943 (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters). kitchen as well as the pantry, breakfast Continue readingat ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE HEIGHT & CLEARANCES or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX. Provides power where you want it, when you want it. 10 Things You Shouldnt Be Storing on Your Kitchen Countertop, Do Not Sell My Personal Information CA Residents. Laminate countertops can complete the look of any kitchen. Receptacles are placed no more than 48" apart. Receptacles mounted below a countertop or work surface in accordance with this exception shall not be located where the countertop or work surface extends more than 150 mm (6 in.) However, the standard height light switches are most often installed is 48 inches from the floor. Countertops aren't always the only location in a kitchen you might want to place an appliance or charge your phone. above, the countertop or work surface. circuits can supply receptacles in the In some cases, having a light switch near the kitchen sink makes sense. We'll discuss what might affect your decision on placement and any code requirements. OPINION: (not "code") for minimum distance above the countertop surface to a receptacle bottom: if you can, keep receptacles 6-10 " above a countertop to avoid wetting them during countertop cleaning and to make appliance plugging-in convenient. In a kitchen for example, the following rules will apply: Below is a preview of the NEC. , 10 Simple Ideas to Update your Kitchen Cabinets, How to Add Decorative Toe Kicks to your Kitchen Cabinets, DIY Kitchen Cabinets Reveal with Nieu Cabinet Doors . This article series describes how to choose, locate, and wire an electrical receptacle in a home. For light switches, they are usually placed approximately 4 inches from the top of the counter. Receptacle outlets installed to serve the counter can be installed no more than 12 inches below the countertop or work surface and only if the countertop extends 6 inches or less beyond its support base. separate countertop spaces in applying the requirements of 210.52(C) (2). However, there is no minimum or maximum height requirement and can be placed based on personal preferences. Home House & Components Rooms Kitchen Kitchen Countertops. This is per the National Fire Protection Association's code, 210.52(C)(3). Aluminum housing and sleek low profile cap create a stunning combination of function and style with universal appeal in any environment. In other words, an appliance with a 24-in. If you have receptacle sockets in places where theres a good chance an occupant would use one, the person wont need to use an extension cord. Hammer Drill vs. Impact Driver: Whats the Difference? Ensure that no point along the countertop surface is more than 24 from a receptacle. Exception to (5): To comply with the following conditions (1) and (2), receptacle outlets shall be permitted to be mounted not more than 300 mm (12 in.) Section 210.52(C)(3) provides rules for receptacles installed for countertops and work surfaces. Receptacle outlets shall be installed so that no point along the wall line is more than 24 inches (600 This makes sense because even a 12-in. Receptacle outlets installed to serve the counter cannot be installed higher than 20 above the countertop. National Electrical Code specifies all of the spacing requirements, and you need to follow them to comply with local laws. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Receptacles installed below a countertop or work surface shall not be located where the countertop or work surface extends more than 150 mm (6 in.) Regardless of its purpose, it makes sense to have outlets installed near large tabletop areas. In the 2020 NEC, the rules on receptacle locations in kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, dining rooms, and similar areas of dwelling units have been reorganized to make the requirements a bit more user friendly. a long dimension of 24 inches (600 mm) or greater and a short dimension of 12 inches (300 mm) or greater. While the purpose of countertops may be to provide a surface upon which you can cook and prepare meals in your kitchen, they are more than just a practical necessity. You're able to keep the outlets from being seen when not in use. The warmth and natural beauty of our real wood countertops and backsplashes are the natural choice for your home. (2) In countertop or work surfaces: Receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops or work surfaces shall be permitted to be installed in countertops or work surfaces. Put power within reach right where you want it. It keeps a receptacle within reach of a small appliance. An island counter is a counter supported only by cabinetry which is not attached to a wall. Receptacle outlets shall be located above, but not more than 20 inches (500 Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. One option is to install the outlet on the side or the end of your kitchen island. and there are no means to mount a receptacle within 20 inches (500 mm) above the countertop, such So good news, you can put an outlet in your countertop as long as it is designed for that purpose. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. When you have a kitchen island, you have some flexibility about where the outlets can go. The maximum height above countertop to receptacle is 20.. (1) Construction for the physically impaired, (2) On island and peninsular countertops or work surface where the surface is flat across its entire surface (no backsplashes, dividers, etc.) and there are no means to mount a receptacle within 500 mm (20 in.) How To Replace A Bosch Dishwasher Front Panel. These small appliance branch E325794. While there are spacing / access requirements (six feet) and some fire clearance needs (not over a stove or burner) there are not height restrictions in the code. If you have an overhang or bar area to your kitchen island, you can also place an outlet under there. Click here to see Pop Up Outlet on Amazon. above the countertop or work surface, such as an overhead cabinet. Light switches, or even garbage disposal switches, are often placed above the countertop and below cabinets. Receptacle outlets rendered not readily accessible by appliances fastened in place, appliance garages, sinks, or range tops as covered in 210.52(C)(1). met. An outlet can be placed above your countertop, but what about on the surface? A popup outlet can offer the best of both worlds. First, well speak with you to get a better sense of how much power will be needed for all the appliances, devices, and other electronics in the house. above, the countertop or work surface. Where should you place a kitchen countertop outlet? A receptacle installed to serve the kitchen counter can be installed 22 inches above the countertop. However, in most cases, light switches are installed at least two feet from the kitchen sink. less than 12 inches, the range top or sink is considered to divide the island into two separate spaces as defined in Your island or sink area can be taller than the rest of the countertops or vice versa. There isn't any code for how close a light switch can be to a kitchen sink. below the countertop or work surface. Great for your kitchen remodel or new construction. Proper fitting and installation ensure you dont have to regret it later. Receptacles can be located below the countertop level only when the conditions noted by the 210.52(C)(5) exceptions are A receptacle installed to serve the kitchen counter can be installed 21 inches above the countertop. We also provide an ARTICLE INDEX for this topic, or you can try the page top or bottom SEARCH BOX as a quick way to find information you need. If you need some convincing about whether your island needs an outlet, take a look at our other blog post on the topic here: Does A Kitchen Island Need An Outlet? Informational Note: See 406.5(E) and 406.5(G) for requirements for installation of receptacles in countertops and 406.5(F) and 406.5(G) for requirements for installation of receptacles in work surfaces. However, if the countertop is considered for bar-style seating, the height can reach 42 inches tall. 7. The maximum height an outlet above a kitchen counter can be is 20 inches. Enjoy convenient power access wherever you need it to power your small appliances and charge your mobile devices. Here are the basics: Areceptacle outlet needs to be installedoneach wall where the countertop or work spacethat is 12inches or wider. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); All rights reserved (c) 2019 -2021 KitchenSeer.com. Your email address will not be published. Receptacles mounted below a countertop in accordance with this Pop-Up Kitchen Power Grommet provides a safe and simple solution for adding convenient power options to kitchen islands, kitchen counter tops, and other potential wet areas. They are also a great place to keep phone chargers. For example, one black and decker toaster oven comes with a 20-inch power cord. exception shall not be located where the countertop extends more than 6 inches (150 mm) beyond its support base. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. Contact Tim Kyle Electric. Now you know your kitchen counter outlets and light switches' typical height, but please keep reading as we elaborate on this further. The rest of the spacing is up to you! We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer). InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest. What should be the ideal height? Receptacle outlets are required behind sinks and ranges if the counter space behind the sink or range along a wall is For reducing the usage of extension cables, building codes pay close attention to receptacle dimensions. Countertops of 12" or more wide get a receptacle. How Deep Are Kitchen Cabinets And Countertops? Sketch showing maximum distances to an electrical receptacle along a kitchen countertop, adapted from City of Freemont CA 2016 Electrical Code. 220-16(a)]. For example, it's probably a good idea to install the switch for the garbage disposal close to the sink. If your outlet is 18 inches from that countertop, you only have 2 inches of extra length between your toaster and the wall. Click here to see Outlet Plates on Amazon. Flush Mount Self-Contained Receptacles, How to hide existing electrical outlets in the kitchen, Outlet options to consider when designing/remodeling, DIY Kitchen Cabinets Reveal with Nieu Cabinet Doors, How to Add Decorative Toe Kicks to your Kitchen Cabinets, Clean thoroughly and lightly sand between coats, Finish with a clear matte sealer for extra protection, Clear or faux finish decorative wall plates, Flush-mount or self-contained receptacles, Mount outlets horizontally if wall tile is horizontal (ie subway tile). Note: appearance of your Comment below may be delayed: if your comment contains an image, web link, or text that looks to the software as if it might be a web link, your posting will appear after it has been approved by a moderator. We mentioned this briefly in our examples of different kitchen island outlet locations, but let's elaborate. 20" is the common maximum receptacle height above the countertop. If you plan to plug in small appliances or something you might not want to unplug for a while, this is a good option. Danby Refrigerator Not Getting ColdWhat Could Be Wrong? That being said, the height of kitchen outlets is often different to accommodate the countertops. range top or sink is installed in an island or peninsular counter and the width of a counter behind the range top or sink is This is a newer concept but is available in a variety of different designs and styles. Or use the SEARCH BOX found below to Ask a Question or Search InspectApedia. We recommend our users to update the browser. Please select the store location nearest you to view full product selection. Always check with your local electrical inspector about the specific code requirements in your area. UL listed for use in kitchens with GFI protection and a water tight cap and serves as a great alternative to ugly wall plates for duplex receptacles. sign in for electrical continuing education courses. One option is to choose outlet plates that match your cabinets, so they are camouflaged within the cabinetry. receptacles can be spacesd 12 ft. on center. A good rule of thumb is to install the light switch 4 inches above the countertop. Not everyone wants their outlets to be on display.