Why Some Wall Outlets Are Installed Upside Down

relationship between the grounding pin and the energized blades depends partly on the orientation of the receptacle and the plug.

With the grounding opening positioned on top, the grounding pin can potentially remain engaged longer as the plug begins to sag out of the receptacle.

This is one reason some electricians favor ground-up orientation in particular applications.

But again, don’t treat this as a universal code requirement.

The entire electrical installation—not simply the direction of the receptacle—determines whether the system is safe.

Does Turning an Outlet Upside Down Change the

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