Outlet and switch box height
#1
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Outlet and switch box height
What is the standard height to mount outlets and switches for new construction? I live in Wisconsin, but can't find any info on proper mounting height.
#2
Unless there is a local code or you are restricted by ADA requirements, there are no set in stone standards with few exceptions (kitchen and bathroom)
If this is an engineered job, the requirements should be in the prints or accompanying spec book.
If this is an engineered job, the requirements should be in the prints or accompanying spec book.
#3
There is no proper or code height. There are ADA requirements but they sledom apply in a residential setting.
I use ALL TTT (to the top, of the box) measurements, as long as I am using the same type of boxes on a job. If not I adjust, or use TTC (center) measurements. If it is an existing job, or a renovation I match what is existing.
For new construction, mine are:
Switches; and basement; garage; utility; refer; freezer; & kitchen counter receptacles: 48" TTT
Bath receptacles: 44" TTT
Wahser; dryer; & gas range receptacles: 36" TTT
Most general use receptalces: 16" TTT
Furnace kill switch; thermostats: 60" TTT
I use ALL TTT (to the top, of the box) measurements, as long as I am using the same type of boxes on a job. If not I adjust, or use TTC (center) measurements. If it is an existing job, or a renovation I match what is existing.
For new construction, mine are:
Switches; and basement; garage; utility; refer; freezer; & kitchen counter receptacles: 48" TTT
Bath receptacles: 44" TTT
Wahser; dryer; & gas range receptacles: 36" TTT
Most general use receptalces: 16" TTT
Furnace kill switch; thermostats: 60" TTT
#4
Originally Posted by Speedy Petey
There is no proper or code height. There are ADA requirements but they sledom apply in a residential setting.
I use ALL TTT (to the top, of the box) measurements, as long as I am using the same type of boxes on a job. If not I adjust, or use TTC (center) measurements. If it is an existing job, or a renovation I match what is existing.
For new construction, mine are:
Switches; and basement; garage; utility; refer; freezer; & kitchen counter receptacles: 48" TTT
Bath receptacles: 44" TTT
Wahser; dryer; & gas range receptacles: 36" TTT
Most general use receptalces: 16" TTT
Furnace kill switch; thermostats: 60" TTT
I use ALL TTT (to the top, of the box) measurements, as long as I am using the same type of boxes on a job. If not I adjust, or use TTC (center) measurements. If it is an existing job, or a renovation I match what is existing.
For new construction, mine are:
Switches; and basement; garage; utility; refer; freezer; & kitchen counter receptacles: 48" TTT
Bath receptacles: 44" TTT
Wahser; dryer; & gas range receptacles: 36" TTT
Most general use receptalces: 16" TTT
Furnace kill switch; thermostats: 60" TTT
Also Petey, are there not requirements as to height above a counter in the kitchens and for the recep for the bath lav. I don;t do resi and don;t remember off hand but do remember hearing something about they finally allowed the kitchen receps above counters to be greater. This allowed the recep to be insatalled ito the bottom ledger of the cabinet (I think)
#5
Commercially I usually do the same, for the same reason.
The limitations in kitchens are for the required receptacles. Once the minimum requirements are met you can install them wherever you want.
The maximum height for required receptalces at kitchen counters is 20" allowing them under the upper cabinets since most uppers are 18" off the counter.
Bathrooms have similar requirements.
The limitations in kitchens are for the required receptacles. Once the minimum requirements are met you can install them wherever you want.
The maximum height for required receptalces at kitchen counters is 20" allowing them under the upper cabinets since most uppers are 18" off the counter.
Bathrooms have similar requirements.
#6
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jbruce
I asked an electrician friend of mine the same question about standard wall plug height. He told me he stands his hammer up, sets the box above it and then nails it in place. He saves a lot of time by not having to measure and they all come out at a constant height.
I asked an electrician friend of mine the same question about standard wall plug height. He told me he stands his hammer up, sets the box above it and then nails it in place. He saves a lot of time by not having to measure and they all come out at a constant height.
#7
That's fine if you work alone, but with others on site you better all have the exact same hammer or you will have one unhappy customer after the rock is hung.
IMO "hammer height" is old school and outdated.
I use a 48" story pole with notches cut out at 16" and 44".
IMO "hammer height" is old school and outdated.
I use a 48" story pole with notches cut out at 16" and 44".