Receptacles installed on 15- and 20-ampere-rated branch circuits must be of what type?

Receptacles installed on 15- and 20-ampere-rated branch circuits must be grounding types to ensure safety and code compliance. Grounding receptacles are designed to provide a path for electrical current to safely disperse into the ground in the event of a fault. This is crucial because it helps prevent electrical shock and reduces the risk of fire.

In residential settings, grounding receptacles often include a third prong, known as the ground prong, which connects to the grounding system of the electrical installation. This feature is essential for protecting users and connected devices from potential electrical surges or faults. Grounding receptacles also contribute to meeting the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, which mandate the use of grounding methods in most modern electrical systems.

Other types of receptacles, such as non-grounding ones, do not provide this level of protection and are generally not allowed on new installations for circuits that require grounding. The isolated type does not have a grounding connection and is meant for specific applications, while weather-resistant receptacles are designed for outdoor use but also must have a grounding feature when installed in circuits requiring grounding. Thus, grounding receptacles are the preferred and required type for 15- and 20-amp circuits in order