What is the minimum height above the floor for a wall outlet?

The minimum height for a wall outlet is typically set at 15 inches above the floor. This standard is primarily established for a couple of reasons. Firstly, mounting outlets at this height helps prevent accidental damage or disconnection of devices located on the floor, such as furniture or appliances. It also ensures easier access for plugging and unplugging devices while remaining high enough to avoid water exposure, particularly in areas where there might be a risk of spills or flooding, such as in kitchens or basements.

Choosing 15 inches as the height meets the needs for safety and accessibility, making it a commonly accepted standard in residential wiring codes. Other height options are generally not recommended because they either make it inconvenient for user interaction or pose a safety risk.