the rest of this article.
itself tell you whether the wiring is correct.
What does the third hole on an outlet do?
It’s the grounding contact. On a properly grounded system, it connects compatible equipment to the equipment grounding path, which provides an important fault-current path and helps protect against electric shock.
Should the ground hole be on top or bottom?
Either orientation may be encountered. Follow the applicable electrical code, manufacturer instructions, and installation requirements rather than assuming one orientation is universally correct.
Why are some outlets installed sideways?
Specialized installations can use different
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orientations depending on the receptacle, equipment, space, and installation requirements. A sideways receptacle isn’t automatically evidence of faulty wiring either.
Should I replace an old outlet because it’s upside down?
Not solely because of its orientation. If an outlet is damaged, loose, discolored, hot, sparking, buzzing, or otherwise behaving abnormally, have it inspected by a qualified electrician.
The Bottom Line
So the next time you see an electrical outlet that looks upside down, don’t immediately assume somebody messed up.
That little grounding opening can be on top for perfectly legitimate
