Bathroom Wiring

[phillybulldog]

Just came across your site and it's great. I'm wiring a new bathroom. I installed a dedicated 20 amp gfi circuit with 14 gauge wire feeding the room. I have 3 dimmer switches (one each for the overhead lignt, fan, and 2 lights above the sink). My question is my wife wants the outlet near the floor next to the pedesel sink and I have always seen the bathroom outlet at sink height. Is there a reason why it can't be at floor level and is 14 gauge sufficient for this room? Thanks!

Rob

[Jimmer]

Rob,

Welcome to the forum.

For a 20 amp circuit, use 12 gauge wire. For a 15 amp circuit, you can use 14 gauge wire (in most locales). For a long run, though, you should use the next larger size wire, to avoid voltage drops. 12 gauge is only slightly more expensive than 14 gauge, though it's stiffer and harder to work with.

Here's a quick table for normal situations. Go up a size for more than 100 foot runs, when the cable is in conduit, or ganged with other wires in a place where they can't dissipate heat easily:

Gauge Amps
14 ----- 15
12 ----- 20
10 ----- 30
8 ------ 40
6 ------ 65

I don't think there is any restriction on the height of an outlet.

Good luck, Jim


'Just a handyman trying to help'