So you want to know the standard light switch height from the floor in your room. For adults, it does not matter, but if you have kids, old age people, or differently able people in the house, then it matters a lot.
Plus, if you want to enhance the interior of your room using a good noticeable light switch, then you may need these started height data to make the most of your interior design and make it noticeable.
Although you are free to place it anywhere you want according to your needs. But these are the standard heights. Most electrical uses them when they install the switch.
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Standard Light Switch Height from the Floor as per HUD Code
The maximum height for a light switch is 48 inches from the floor of your house according to the Fair Housing Act Design. It is also the standard height that electricians and real estate developers use when they install light switches in any house.
In most states, a code is built for these switches and electric outlets installed on the wall, and most professionals follow them. The maximum no is 48 inches above the floor. Technically 47 inches if you measure it from the starting point of the switch from the ground.
Also, read: How to rewire a floor lamp.
What is the Light Switch Height for Kids
If you have kids, you should call your electrician and install a light switch near their reach so they can use it easily. The standard 48-inch light switch height works fine for kids 12 and above.
Below is a list of different ages of kids and their suitable switch heights.
- Under 4 years: 20 to 30 inches.
- Under 8 years: 28 to 40 inches.
- Under 12 years: 20 to 45 inches.
If anyone, either an old person or a specialty-able person, is having trouble accessing that 48-inch height, you can consider the above list according to your preference.
What is the Standard Light Switch Height for Kitchen
In the kitchen, there are a lot of things that you do not want to disturb when you turn on the light. That is why the 48-inch average does not fit here. Experts say you place it under the cabinet that is above your head.
Here, you can install it about 40 inches from the floor. But adjust it according to your kitchen and design. It should be easy to turn on and off the light.
What are the Exceptions of these Switch Height Codes
What are the Exceptions of these Switch Height Codes?
Well, I have seen people install the light switch very close to the ground and close to their bed so that they do not have to get up from the bed to run it off. People use it as they like.
Yes, there are some electrical codes but your electrician can manage them all. Just keep in mind that it does not disturb your interior look and feel. Then you are free to install it anywhere you want.
Last Words
So that is your answer to the height of the switch. Do not worry about the codes that much. Just install it as you like. The average height is 48 inches from the floor, but you are free to adjust it for your kitchen, outdoor spaces, garage, and other types of lights. It is up to you completely.
Now call your electrician and install or you can do it yourself if you know how to do the wiring and have those tools available near you. I wish you the best of luck.
Height of Light Switch FAQs
What is the standard light switch height?
The standard light switch height is 48 inches from the floor of your house according to HUD’s housing design act.
What is the HUD code for a light switch height?
The maximum light switch height is 48 inches from the ground according to HUD’s Fair Housing Act Design, but you can adjust it according to your needs.
What is a good placement of a light switch?
Set up your light switch near the entrance to the room at a good level where you and your kids can reach.
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