Electrical Codes for Porches
Essential for Safety and Security

Exterior Wiring Requirements

• Use underground feeder (UF) cable for outdoor wiring needs
• Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) protected receptacles
• Install receptacles a minimum of 12" above ground level
• Use only weather-proof electrical boxes with watertight covers
• Plan on installing a 20-amp, 120 volt circuit if the circuit contains more than one light fixture rated for 300 watts or more than four receptacles
• Run cable in rigid metal or schedule 40 PVC plastic as required by local code
• Check for underground utilities prior to digging

Grounding

• Use switches with grounding screws whenever possible. Always ground switches installed in plastic electrical boxes and all switches where water is an issue.
• Ground all receptacles by connecting receptacle grounding screws to the circuit grounding wires.

Light Fixtures

• Use straps that are anchored to the box to mount ceiling fixtures
• Keep recessed lights 3" from insulation and 1/2" from combustibles

Receptacles

• Match the amp rating of a receptacle with the size of the circuit

• Place receptacles so a 6' cord can be plugged in from any point along a wall or every 12' along a wall
• Use three-prong, grounded receptacles for all 15 or 20 amp, 120 volt branch circuits
• Install GFCI receptacles
• Install an isolate-ground circuit to protect sensitive equipment like computers

Switches

• Locate all switches within easy reach
• Use switches with grounding screw with plastic electrical boxes
• Use three-way switches at the top and bottom of stairs with six steps or more

Electrical Boxes

• Use boxes that are large enough to handle the number of wires entering the box (boxes are rated)
• Locate boxes 12" from floor (may be placed higher)
• Locate switch boxes 48" from floor (may be placed higher or lower to accommodate special needs)
• Leave at least 8" of usable cable extending past the front of the box

Wires

• Use wires that are large enough for the amperage rating of the circuit
• Drill holes at least 2" back from the exposed edge of joists to run cables through
• Do not attach cables to the bottom of joists
• Do not run cables diagonally between framing members
• Do not crimp cables sharply
• Contain spliced wires or connections entirely in the box
• Use wire connectors to join wires
• Use staples every within 8" of a box and every 48" along its run to secure the wire

Outdoor Kitchens

• Install a dedicated 40 or 50 amp, 120/240 volt circuit for a range (or two circuits for separate oven and counter top units)
• Install two 20 amp small appliance circuits
• Install dedicated 15-amp, 120 volt circuits for dishwashers and disposals
• Use GFCI receptacles for all accessible counter top receptacles
• Include receptacles on all counters wider than 12"
• Mount one receptacles within 12" of the countertop on islands that are 12" x 24" or greater
• Do not put lights on small appliance circuits

Hang Your Porch Lights See how easy it is to hang your porch lights....

Wire a Porch Receptacle See what's involved in wiring your porch receptacles....

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