Planning on retrofitting a couple of exterior electrical outlets. The NEC sets a maximum height but is there some rule of thumb for minimum height? It would be quite a bit easier for me to install them at about a foot off the ground, otherwise I have to install an elbow and run external conduit up the wall to anything higher.
Thanks
Replies
My rule of thumb is how low my back alows me to bend without pain. Somedays that could be 4 feet!
It is typical to mount them at band board height for the reason you have. But, one foot is a little low for my comfort. Depending on the siding you have, one can always set the box in the wall and run the romex inside the wall up to the box from the bandboard area. Well, as long as romex is allowed by your local code!
Arlington makes some "in use" boxes that sit inside the wall cavity for a nice flush look.
Frank DuVal
You can never make something foolproof because fools are so ingenious.
I'm not going by any code that I'm aware of.....but one foot sounds a bit low. (You get snow where you are?)
18 to 24 inches would be ideal for me. (Lower if over a patio or deck or such.)
J. D. Reynolds
Home Improvements
I consider two things when placing outside receptacles: the use and the weather.
First choice is to place them either next to what they serve - like the sprinkler timer or Xmas lights - or where you can reach them easily.
The second consideration is answered by asking "how deep is the snow?" I like to place them above likely snowfalls.
Place 'em above high tide...