Putting electrical outlets in the floor used to be forbidden by electrical codes, but in recent years it has become more common and accepted to have floor outlets. There are some advantages and disadvantages to having electrical outlets in the floor that are important to consider. Ultimately, whether or not you can have floor outlets depends on your local electrical codes and the opinion of your electrician. With proper installation and precautions, floor outlets can be safe and convenient in many situations.
Page Contents
Quick Answers
- Floor outlets used to be against electrical code, but are now allowed in most areas with proper installation.
- The main advantage of floor outlets is keeping cords and wires out of the way for safety and aesthetics.
- Possible issues include leakage, tripping hazards, damage to the outlet, and increased installation costs.
- Special water-resistant boxes and covers must be used for floor outlets.
- Local codes may restrict locations of floor outlets, such as near sinks or outdoors.
- A licensed electrician should install floor outlets to ensure proper wiring and grounding.
Advantages of Floor Outlets
There are several reasons you may want to put electrical outlets in the floor:
Reduced Tripping Hazards
Electrical cords running across the floor can create tripping hazards. Floor outlets can reduce this risk by keeping cords out of walkways. This makes them ideal for rooms where you will have lamps, TVs, computers, or other devices to plug in away from walls.
Flexible Arrangements
Floor outlets allow you to arrange furnishings and electronics more freely without worrying about access to wall outlets. With floor outlets, you don’t have to position furniture based on outlet placement.
Cleaner Aesthetics
Floor outlets can provide a cleaner look by reducing visible cords from appliances and devices. The outlet box and cover blend in seamlessly with the flooring. This gives you a sleeker, less cluttered appearance than wall outlets with multiple cords plugged in.
Easier Access
Depending on the furniture layout and position of wall outlets, it can sometimes be difficult to access wall outlets behind bulky furniture. Floor outlets provide easier access in hard-to-reach spots.
Potential Issues with Floor Outlets
While floor outlets offer advantages, there are also some downsides to consider:
Higher Installation Cost
Installing floor outlets costs more than wall outlets because it requires special boxes and conduit under the flooring. The installation must be done when the flooring is open during construction or renovation. Overall, you can expect to pay $200-500 per floor outlet for parts and professional installation.
Leaks and Moisture
Floor outlets may be exposed to leaks from flooding or spills. Special water-resistant boxes and covers must be used. The outlets should have ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection as well. Avoid locations like bathrooms or basements prone to getting wet.
Damage to Outlet
Floor outlets can be damaged by heavy foot traffic or dragging furniture. The small metal or plastic covers over the outlet are more vulnerable than wall outlets. To prevent damage, avoid placing floor outlets in high traffic areas or where furniture legs may slide over them.
Resale Value Concerns
Some home buyers may view floor outlets negatively, thinking they seem strange or pose safety issues. This could slightly impact resale value of the home. However, floor outlets are becoming more common and accepted.
Electrical Codes for Floor Outlets
Floor outlets must be installed properly to meet electrical safety codes. The National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes provide the following guidelines:
Locations
Floor outlets cannot be installed in “wet locations” like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or exterior areas prone to moisture. They should only go in dry, interior spaces.
Weatherproofing
In dry locations, standard electrical boxes can be used. For areas that may get some moisture like basements, the box needs a special water-resistant cover.
GFCI Protection
Floor outlets must have GFCI protection. This will shut off power if a current leak is detected to prevent shocks.
Conduit
Rigid metal conduit must run underground from the outlet box to the wall. This protects the wiring from damage under the floor.
Grounding
The outlet must be properly grounded with a ground wire in the conduit for safety.
Tamper-Resistance
Any floor outlet in a home with small children must use tamper-resistant outlets. This prevents kids from sticking objects into the slots.
Covers
The outlet should have a sturdy cover flush with the floor. It must be rated for the expected foot traffic in that location.
Installation Tips for Floor Outlets
If you want to add floor outlets, here are some tips for proper installation:
Hire an Electrician
Floor outlets should always be installed by a licensed electrician, not a homeowner. The wiring and grounding requires professional skills.
Plan Locations Carefully
Consider traffic patterns, furniture placement, and risk of spills when deciding where to place floor outlets. Mark the desired spots with painter’s tape before installation.
Install During Construction or Renovation
It’s much easier to wire floor outlets when the floors are open. Trying to cut openings in existing flooring is difficult.
Use Dedicated Circuits
Run the wiring from floor outlets back to the electrical panel on dedicated circuits. Don’t overload existing circuits.
Waterproof Boxes and Conduit
Use UL-listed waterproof floor boxes and water-tight conduit especially if below grade level or in basements.
Check Local Codes
Have your electrician verify that floor outlets are permitted in the desired locations per local electrical codes.
Select Durable Covers
Choose rugged covers rated for heavy foot traffic that provide a flush fit with the surrounding flooring. Brass or stainless steel covers last longer than plastic.
Conclusion
Floor outlets provide flexibility in furniture arrangement, reduced tripping hazards from cords, and cleaner aesthetics by hiding wires. With proper precautions and professional installation, floor outlets can be safe and legal in most areas. Check your local electrical code requirements. Hire an experienced electrician to install any floor outlets using waterproof boxes, conduit, GFCI protection, and tamper-resistant receptacles. With more homes having open floor plans, demand for floor outlets will likely continue growing in the future.