Electricians may position the outlet in an upside-down position so that you can quickly identify the switch-controlled receptacle. Since it stands out visually to most people right away – it provides convenience to the occupants to easily remember which outlet is switch controlled.

Are upside down outlets bad?

A: Rex Cauldwell, a master electrician in Rocky Mount, Va., replies: There is no official right or wrong way to orient a receptacle—the National Electrical Code doesnt specify—but you can decide by using logic and common sense.

What is the correct way to install an outlet?

The outlet should be oriented with the ground pin down because a person grabbing the outlet will have their index finger at the bottom side of the plug and the index finger sticks out further than the thumb. Having the ground down will keep a persons index finger from touching the live pins.

What happens if you plug something in upside down?

So although flipping the plug around and inserting it backwards will probably be no problem with regard to the electrical operation of the appliance, it may create a safety hazard by exposing the hot half of the outlet, the half not connected to Earth, such that someone might touch it and be shocked.

How high above the floor should outlets be installed?

about 12 inches Standard Height for Outlet Boxes The standard height for wall outlet boxes is about 12 inches from the top of the floor covering to the bottom of the receptacle box (or 16 inches to the top of the box).

Why do I have power to my outlet but nothing works?

There can be a number of reasons a receptacle stops working. The problem could be as simple as a loose connection; the wires could also be damaged, which might require a brand new circuit. A device might still be working, but could have serious—and potentially dangerous—underlying issues.