Electrical Switch Height From Floor

Installing electrical boxes for outlets.

Electrical switch height from floor.

Since the standard height of most base cabinets with countertop is about 36 inches this means that the bottom of the switch box should fall at least 40 inches above the floor. Generally speaking wall switches should be about 4 inches above the countertop. Builders generally use this standard since this height can be reached as comfortably from the standing position as from the sitting. This is also true for counter top outlets in the kitchen and bathroom where switches and outlets are at the same height.

If a front approach by wheelchair is possible the light switch may be located no higher than 48 inches above the floor. The minimum allowable height according to the fair housing act is 15 inches from the floor. If a wheelchair can access a light switch location from the side the light switch may be located at a maximum of 54 inches above the floor. This allows the switch to clear a standard countertop.

When installing switches in a workshop some woodworkers put them 52 inches from the floor so they can. Installing electrical boxes for light switches the average height for light switches is 46 inches from the floor to the center of the switch box. The ideal light switch height is 48 inches from the floor. The height from the floor to the middle of the switch plate should not exceed 48 inches and the minimum height should not be less than 15 inches.

When the switch is over a counter that has a knee space and the counter depth exceeds 20 inches the maximum height of a switch is reduced to 44 inches.