How To Install a Floor Outlet
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How can I install an outlet into the floor? The Basics for Installing a Floor Outlet, Parts for Installing a Floor Outlet. |
Electric Floor Outlet
Electrical Question: How can I install an outlet into the floor?
- I want to avoid running a cord on the floor surface to the center of the room.
- I have easy access from the crawlspace below.
- Are there any special requirements, hardware or techniques for installing a receptacle into a box underneath a floor.
This electrical question came from: John, a Handyman from Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Additional Comments: Very helpful. I understand electricity but not hardware and codes.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question John.
Installing a Floor Outlet
Application: Installing a 120 Volt Floor Outlet.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate – Best if wired by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and a Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and the number of outlets that will be added and the access to the location for the new outlets.
Precaution: Identify the existing outlet circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Installing additional outlet wiring should be done through the local building authority, installed according to applicable local and national electrical codes, with a permit, and have the required inspections.
The Basics for Installing a Floor Outlet
- Installing a floor outlet requires a special floor rated outlet box, which is typically a deep metal box.
- A recessed single or duplex outlet is then installed and a low profile outlet cover which is rated for floor use is then installed.
- Many of the large hardware stores carry floor outlet kits that come with the box, outlet and the cover.
- But first of course, the location for the floor outlet will require special planning so that the outlet will be be located in an ideal location, possibly under a table or sofa.
- This location must not interfere with floor joists or other structural supports or obstacles that may be under the floor.
- The electrical source may be extended from a wall outlet in the immediate room or area
Parts for Installing a Floor Outlet
The following parts are specifically made for this application and may be considered for this project:
- Arlington Adjustable Floor Boxes with Metallic Covers.
- Garvin Brass Floor Box Kit, Weatherproof and Tamper Resistant, With 20 Amp Receptacle.
- Leviton Floor Box Receptacle assembly, floor mounting with duplex receptacle.
More Wiring a Floor Outlet
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Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home
- Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
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Wiring Electrical Outlets
- Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Wiring Electrical Outlets with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
- Electrical Junction Boxes for Home Wiring
- Understanding electrical junction boxes and what they are used for. Home electrical wiring is the process of installing electrical wire to a location that will serve electrical devices or an appliance.
- One very important component is the box where the wire will be installed. The type and size of the home wiring electrical boxes will depend upon the circuit size, application and its location.
For more information about Home Wiring
Home Electrical Wiring
Home Wiring
Basic Home Wiring Diagrams with Pictures
Home Electrical Codes
Electrical Code Directory covering electrical wiring methods for electric outlet.
The following may also be helpful for you:
Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
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The 220 floor outlet box for our all electric stove is cracked. Last night I pulled out the bottom stove drawer and it dislodged the plug on the floor behind stove. When the plug was put back the stove continues to work as usual. Do I need to replace the floor box? Do I need an electrician to do this?
Thanks for any help with this.
Hi Judy,
If the floor outlet box is cracked it would be best to have an electrician take a look and replace the floor box as needed. This would ensure the electrical components and wiring are safe and prevent any possible complications.
Thank you for sharing your floor outlet question with us,
Dave