What type of receptacles should be installed on 15- and 20-ampere-rated branch circuits?

The installation of standard receptacles on 15- and 20-ampere-rated branch circuits is based on common electrical practices and regulations that govern residential electrical systems where no special conditions are required. Standard receptacles are adequate in typical living areas, such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining areas, where devices that draw normal amounts of current will be used.

Standard receptacles are designed to handle the voltage and current specifications of general applications without any additional protection or reinforcement. They efficiently accommodate most household devices while adhering to the safety standards set forth by electrical codes.

In certain conditions, other types of receptacles serve more specialized purposes. For example, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles protect against electrical shocks in areas where water is present, and weather-resistant receptacles are often used outdoors. Hospital-grade receptacles are built for use in medical facilities where reliability and safety are critical. However, in typical home environments, the standard receptacle satisfies the requirements for safety and functionality without necessitating additional features.