Are sockets above the stove allowed? What you should know

Sockets above the stove can be risky. Find out which regulations need to be observed and how you can use them safely.

Socket above the stove: are they allowed?

The question of whether sockets can be installed above a stove is one that concerns many homeowners and tenants. There are legal requirements to be aware of.

• In Germany, there are no explicit prohibitions on installing sockets above stoves, but safety standards must be observed. DIN VDE 0100-701 regulates the installation of electrical systems in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Electricians often advise against installing sockets directly above cooking surfaces because of the risk of water or grease splashing into them. This can cause short circuits or fires.
• For safe installation, the socket should be at least 30 centimetres above the cooking surface. This distance minimizes the risk of water vapour and grease splashes.
• If sockets above the stove are indispensable, special splash-proof models should be used. These are equipped with covers to provide additional protection.

Kitchen planning: Where should sockets be placed?

When planning a kitchen, the location of sockets is crucial. Careful planning can avoid later problems and increase safety.

• It is advisable to place sockets along the work surfaces and on both sides of the cooker. This makes them easily accessible and reduces the need to reach over the cooker.
• Consider which appliances you regularly use in the kitchen. There should be enough sockets for blenders, coffee machines and other kitchen appliances.
• For larger appliances such as fridges and dishwashers, it makes sense to plan dedicated power outlets to meet their power requirements. Proper planning is important here to save electricity and money.
• Avoid the use of multiple socket outlets above the stove, as these pose an additional fire hazard, especially in damp or greasy environments.