ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Receptacle in Closet

Whether or not it is a good idea is debatable and probably depends on the closet.
I can't think of any Code article that would
disallow it.

I installed a recpt in my closet afterr checking with a local inspector. Neither one of us could find anything in the NEC about it. I use it for a battery charger for a vacuum. After all they do put stacked washer and dryers in closets don't they.

In Ontario, in accordance with The Ontario Electrical Safety Code...

26-702(16) * Receptacles in closets

Question #1: Are receptacles permitted in clothes or storage closets?

Answer #1: No

Rationale #1: Rule 26-702(3) Except as otherwise provided for in this Code.... receptacles shall be installed ....... in every room or area, OTHER THAN ....... closets.

Rule 26-702(16) Receptacles shall not be placed in a cupboard, cabinet, or similar enclosure ..... with exceptions as listed.

The intent is to prevent an appliance being plugged into a receptacle in a clothes or storage closet and the door being closed on the cord; or an appliance (possibly a heating appliance), being left on in a clothes or storage closet in the presence of flammable materials.

Question #2: Does the Code permit a receptacle to be placed in a closet that is being converted to a computer workstation or an entertainment center?

Answer #2: Yes.

Rationale #2: Rule 26-702(16) Receptacles shall not be placed in a cupboard, cabinet, or similar enclosure except where ... (b) they are intended for use with a specific type of appliance that is intended for use within the enclosure.

This rule would permit installation of a receptacle(s) for the supply of specific appliances (computer, entertainment equipment, etc) which are located within an enclosure provided the closet is converted into a home office work station or entertainment center and any clothes hanger bars and linen shelves are removed.

Websters defines a closet as a small room or cupboard for clothes, household supplies, linens, etc. The space would no longer comply with this definition provided any clothes hanger bars and linen shelves are removed.

Tony Moscioni
Electrical Inspector
Electrical Safety Authority

I suggest that you look at the products of a company called "California Closets." These folks have "modules" that allow you to customise a closet; these include make-up/jewelry stations, etc.
I have nothing against receptacles in closets, in general, but I would press the customer as to the actual intended reasons, as placement is likely to be critical.

Tony, Assuming that Muxx lived in Canada and was under the Canadian codes, I still think you are misinterpreting your rule 26-702(3). I believe the intent of that is to require outlets in all rooms, but that closets are not required to have receptacles. As for receptacles in cabinets, we have to install them over a cook top for the use of a microwave oven mounted under the cabinet.

i have never done a write up on them.if there's no code against them,they're legal!

I can dig it Eagle. Tony, I think he raises a good point. Whether here in the U.S., or in Canada, God help us if we start regulating cords being "pinched" in doors. I don't know of any rule that would not allow receptacles in closets. In fact, I think for rechargible batteries, etc. they are a good idea.

Back in my closet,
Doc

I am in USA, I would like to have an outlet installed in my closet, because I would like to put my network hub in the closet, I have a few cat5 drops that come into it. The outlet would be about 2 feet down from the ceiling on the back wall. and the hub would sit up on the shelf.

Muxx, the answer is yes you can put a receptacle in a closet. There is no location restriction.

Yes, mate.
I have installed heaps of socket outlets in closets/wardrobes for Bedroom TV sets.
Mainly up in the top part where clothes are never stored.