BlueCollarBench

Receptacle spacing in living rooms:

Per NEC 210.52(C), wall receptacles must be installed so that no point along the wall line is more than 6 feet from a receptacle. This means receptacles should be spaced no more than 12 feet apart (center-to-center), assuming standard 12-foot wall runs.

3-foot wall between two doors:

Yes, a receptacle is required in that 3-foot wall segment. Here's why:

NEC 210.52(C)(2) states that every wall space 12 inches or wider must have a receptacle.
A 3-foot (36-inch) wall clearly exceeds the 12-inch minimum.
Even though it's between two doors, it's still considered a wall space under the code.

Exception: If the wall is less than 12 inches wide, no receptacle is required.

Practical tip: Install the receptacle at least 12 inches from the wall edge (per NEC 210.52(C)(1)) to maintain proper clearances.

Bottom line:

Space receptacles no more than 12 feet apart.
Yes, install one in the 3-foot wall between the doors.

According to the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), specifically Section 210.52(A)(1), wall receptacles in living rooms must be installed so that no point along the wall is more than 6 feet horizontally from a receptacle. This means receptacles must be spaced no more than 12 feet apart (since the 6-foot rule applies from each end of the wall).

For a 3-foot wall between two doors, the NEC requires a receptacle only if the wall space is 2 feet or wider (NEC 210.52(A)(2)). Since 3 feet exceeds the 2-foot minimum, yes, a receptacle is required on that wall.

Practical application:

Measure the wall between the two doors.
If it’s ≥2 ft wide (which 3 ft is), install at least one receptacle on that wall.
Place it anywhere along the wall — no specific centering is required by code, though centering is common practice for usability.
The receptacle must be within 6 feet of each door opening (or corner), but since the wall is only 3 ft long, any single receptacle on it will automatically satisfy the 6-foot rule from both ends.

Note: This applies to dwelling units (residential). Commercial spaces have different rules. Always verify local amendments — some jurisdictions may have stricter requirements. If unsure, consult a licensed electrician. Word count: 149

Ask two AIs a trade question. Pick the better answer.

Grade an exam task

Arena ratings