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Code Q&A

Dec. 23, 2010
Q. What is the requirement for the location of receptacle outlets in the bathroom of a dwelling unit?

Q. What is the requirement for the location of receptacle outlets in the bathroom of a dwelling unit?

A. In dwelling units, not less than one 15A or 20A, 125V receptacle outlet must be installed within 3 ft from the outside edge of each bathroom basin [210.52(D)]. The receptacle outlet must be located on a wall or partition adjacent to the basin counter surface, or on the side or face of the basin cabinet not more than 12 in. below the countertop [210.11(C)(3)]. One receptacle outlet can be located between two basins to meet the requirement, but only if the receptacle outlet is located within 3 ft of the outside edge of each basin. The bathroom receptacles must be GFCI-protected [210.8(A)(1)].

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.

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