NEC 210.52-f

Laundry Circuit Requirements - NEC 210.52(F)

Complete code requirements, compliance guidance, and professional analysis

Code Requirements Summary

NEC 210.52(F) requires at least one receptacle outlet for laundry equipment in each dwelling unit, and this receptacle must be supplied by a dedicated 20-ampere branch circuit as specified in NEC 210.11(C)(2).

Professional Requirements

  • Install at least one receptacle outlet in each dwelling unit laundry area
  • Provide a dedicated 20-ampere branch circuit exclusively for laundry equipment
  • Ensure laundry receptacle is readily accessible and appropriately located
  • Install GFCI protection if laundry area meets wet location criteria
  • Size circuit and receptacle for anticipated laundry equipment loads
  • Coordinate laundry circuit with other required dwelling unit circuits

Technical Explanation

The laundry circuit requirement recognizes that washing machines and other laundry equipment represent significant electrical loads that warrant dedicated circuit protection. A 15-ampere circuit would be inadequate for modern washing machines, dryers (if electric), and other laundry equipment. The 20-ampere requirement ensures adequate capacity while the dedicated circuit prevents interference from other loads. This requirement applies to each dwelling unit, meaning apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes must all have dedicated laundry circuits.

Industry Applications

Residential electrical design for new home construction
Apartment and condominium electrical system planning
Laundry room electrical installations and upgrades
Electrical service calculations including laundry loads
Code compliance verification for dwelling unit electrical systems
Electrical permit applications for residential projects

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NEC 2023 State Adoption Status

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Related Code Requirements

NEC 210.11(C)(2)->
NEC 210.52(F)->
NEC 210.8(A)->

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