How Much Wire Should Be Left Between Each Electrical Outlet?

All wiring to electrical outlets must be secured and in good condition.

Minimum Length

According to the National Electrical Code, there is no specific amount of wire that must be left between electrical outlets. But there must be enough wire to span the distance between outlets without the wire being damaged. Do not stretch the wire under tension or allow its own weight to pull it from the outlet.

Future Convenience

Although extra wire is not required between outlets, this could prove beneficial in the future. If you need to relocate an outlet and there is there is already extra wire, then no major work needs be done. If there is not enough wire, the wiring must be replaced, which could entail removing plaster from the wall.

Bottom Line

While there is no code, the cost of leaving several feet of extra wire in the walls between outlets is minimal. While not required, this step could save thousands of dollars in the future. It comes down to weighing the immediate cost of extra wire against potential future costs.

References

• Zen Fix It: Required Receptacles Code Summary

Resources

• Zen Fix It: Basic Residential Electrical Wiring Rough In and Codes Guide