For a receptacle to be considered 'available' in a basement, how far can it be from a point measured horizontally along the floor?

In residential wiring, the placement of receptacles is guided by the National Electrical Code (NEC) to ensure accessibility and convenience for occupants. For a receptacle to be deemed 'available' in a basement, it must be reachable from a point measured horizontally along the floor to provide effective use of electrical outlets.

The correct distance is 6 feet, which is established in the NEC as a standard measurement for the placement of outlets. This specification ensures that individuals do not need to stretch excessively or navigate around obstacles to access power sources, promoting safety and ease of use.

While other distances may seem reasonable, the 6-foot standard specifically reflects the practical needs of spaces like basements, which can often be less accessible than typical living areas. Keeping outlets within this distance makes them readily usable for any necessary appliances or tools that may be used in such areas.