Ask an electrician which way a receptacle, aka outlet, should be installed: “Ground up or down?” Typically, the answer is “both are fine,” though most of us have a preference. The National Electrical Code (NEC) doesn’t require a particular orientation, so you can install them any way you want, even sideways or on the floor.

So why do we think one way is “right-side up” and another is “upside down”? In the United States, the majority of three-prong, grounding-type receptacles (as opposed to non-grounding ones with two slots) are oriented with the circular opening on the bottom. It looks like a face, right? We’ve been conditioned to think this is the right way.

If we tend to think one way is “right,” why are they sometimes installed with the grounding connection up? Is one better than the other? What should you do in your home? Let’s dig in below.

What Is The Correct Way To Install Electrical Outlets Gettyimages 1412400571 M
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Why Are Receptacles Installed Ground Up?

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