New 230v power points - minimum height?

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tims

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#290771 3-Dec-2021 11:06

I'm installing some low shelves in my lounge and will probably want a power point fitted in the area near the shelves so will want to design the shelves around that.
I read somewhere that new power points must be installed at a minimum 500mm above the floor. Doesnt sound right to me - is there a minimum height a power point must be above the floor by the electrical code?

Thanks in advance for any replies

Jase2985

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#2823713 3-Dec-2021 11:46

defiantly not 500mm some of mine at sitting ontop of the skirting, others are a couple hundred above

billgates

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#2823734 3-Dec-2021 12:23

300mm IIRC what our sparky told us

Do whatever you want to do man.

insane

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#2823753 3-Dec-2021 13:15

billgates: 300mm IIRC what our sparky told us

Is that for flood prevention, or to make it easier for toddlers to reach and operate them?

When adding new sockets it's quite hard to get them high up the wall without damaging the gib, even with a 50cm auger bit to go through the bottom plate.

Bung

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#2823784 3-Dec-2021 14:13

AFAIK there are specific requirements for really low or floor mounted sockets other than that it is just left to good sense to put sockets where you can reach them without having to kneel down or put your back out. Most here are about 350mm from floor.

I think somebody like @raytaylor outlined a method of drilling bottom plates from below measuring from an offset nail through floor in front of wall.

SomeoneSomewhere

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#2838453 25-Dec-2021 23:38

In wet areas (bathrooms, laundries, kitchens etc.), they can't be below 300mm.

Other than that, no minimum. They should not be installed with the socket facing up (debris falls into the slots), but this is not mandatory.

kingdragonfly

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#2838590 26-Dec-2021 14:47

It's not uncommon in business conference rooms to have floor box power outlets.

Generally used for cable management,

The US rules are "The National Electrical Code requires floor outlets to be a part of an approved assembly consisting of a metal box, gasket seal, special receptacle and strong cover plate with a moisture-proof cover. You can't just mount a regular wall outlet in the floor."

Probably the same here

https://www.transnet.co.nz/shop/Cable+Management/Floor+Boxes/FB145+Series+Floor+Box.html