Ideal height for sockets in residential spaces

Intro

The correct distribution and height of the outlets is essential to guarantee the comfort, functionality and aesthetics of any home. This guide presents the recommended heights for different types of outlets, adapted to various environments such as living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms.

Recommended heights for sockets

The correct planning of the position of the outlets is essential to ensure functionality, safety and comfort in the daily use of spaces. In interior architecture projects, it is important to consider the relationship between furniture, appliances and user ergonomics.

General purpose outlets (low outlets)

Recommended height: 30 cm from the floor (to the center of the outlet)

Suitable for areas with less visual access: living rooms, corridors and bedrooms.
Often placed behind furniture (sideboards, beds, sofas, chests of drawers).
They allow permanent connections (TV, lamps, chargers)
They guarantee a discreet and functional presence in the environment.

Special-purpose outlets (medium outlets)

Recommended height: 60 to 90 cm from the floor

Used together with work or support areas, such as:
- Bedside tables
- Secretaries
- Side benches or low furniture
They facilitate access without the need to download.
They contribute to the organization of space and user ergonomics.

Sockets on countertops (kitchens and laundry rooms)

Recommended height: 110 cm from the floor

Ideal position for sockets above kitchen countertops (furniture with a standard height of 90 cm).
They should be placed with a margin of 15-20 cm above the top.
They facilitate the use of small appliances and avoid direct contact with damp surfaces.
They must always be aligned with the intended layout of the kitchen to avoid conflicts with cabinets or appliances.

Sockets in bathrooms

Recommended height: 140 to 150 cm from the floor

They must be placed away from the area of contact with water (at least 60 cm from the shower or bath area).
Ideally placed next to the mirror or on vertical furniture.
They prevent electrical hazards and provide safety for hair dryers, electric brushes, etc.
They must be protected by a differential circuit breaker (DR) and have an IP44 degree of protection.

Sockets for built-in or fixed appliances

Recommended height: 20 to 50 cm from the floor, depending on the equipment

Built-in refrigerator, oven, microwave:
- Socket behind or next to the equipment, 20—30 cm from the floor
Dishwasher or clothes washer:
- Accessible socket for maintenance, 30—50 cm high
The location must be compatible with the furniture design and facilitate technical access.

Special cases: bedrooms with custom-made headboards

Sockets next to the bed:
- Height: 60 cm from the floor
- Lateral spacing: 30 to 40 cm from the center of the bed
When there is a custom-made headboard:
- Provide technical indents or niches to embed sockets
- Ensure that the headboard structure does not block access
- Integrate outlets into the joinery when possible

Good practices in residential electrical planning

Plan the position of the outlets depending on the furniture layout.
Keep a visual alignment between outlets and switches when visible.
In homes with children, choose sockets with built-in protection.
Avoid conflict zones with doors, curtains, or baseboards.
Use technical solutions adapted to the type of partition (masonry walls, plasterboard, wood paneling, etc.).

Conclusion

Standard heights provide a safe and functional starting point. However, each project may require adjustments depending on the user's lifestyle and the arrangement of the furniture. Detailed planning at this stage avoids future changes and costs.