Is There a Minimum Distance for an Electrical Socket Near a Kitchen Sink?

I am not aware of a minimum distance for a socket or outlet near a sink, however here in the US they are required to be….

Electrical Question from DUNCAN about Electrical Safety

Received from DUNCAN a Handyman in NOTTS, UK

Question: Is there a minimum distance for an electrical socket to be placed near a sink in the kitchen?

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question.
Hi Duncan – I am not aware of a minimum distance for a socket or outlet near a sink, however here in the US they are required to be GFCI protected and located every four feet along kitchen counter tops.

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One Response to “Is There a Minimum Distance for an Electrical Socket Near a Kitchen Sink?”

Ben says:

September 3, 2010 at 1:31 pm

First of all the minimum requirement for outlets near a sink in the USA is Any Receptacle “2 ft” or less from the edge of the sink or water source has to be GFCI protected.any outlet serving the counter space has to be gfci protected. Serving does not mean on, so if you have peninsular counter, with outlets under, they must be gfci protected.

Only exceptions I’ve heard/read, outlets dedicated for specific
purposes, who’s recepticles are unlikely to be used for appliances or
extension cords, like a clock recept, the above cabenet recept for the
mounted under counter microwave, and the under cabinet recepts for the
dishwasher and garbarge disposal.

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