What is the minimum number of 120-volt receptacles required in a dwelling laundry room?

In a dwelling laundry room, the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires a minimum of one 120-volt receptacle to support the necessary appliances and equipment commonly found in that space. This receptacle must be conveniently located for the operation of laundry equipment, such as a washer, and should be installed within a specified distance to enable easy access.

The design choice reflects practicality in residential settings where only one appliance typically requires a direct plug-in connection for operation. While more receptacles can certainly provide additional convenience, the code outlines one as the baseline requirement to ensure functionality without overcrowding the electrical capacity.

Understanding the context of receptacle requirements in other areas of a home, such as living rooms or kitchens, where multiple appliances may demand more receptacles, clarifies why a single receptacle is sufficient in a focused space like a laundry room. This requirement ensures that the essential needs are met while adhering to safety standards in electrical installations.