Duplex Receptacle
Definition and meaning of Duplex Receptacle in real estate.
A duplex receptacle is a standard electrical outlet designed to accommodate two separate electrical plugs simultaneously.
In more detail
It is the most common type of electrical outlet found in modern homes, typically mounted in a wall box and wired to a household circuit. Each of the two outlets in the receptacle has hot, neutral, and ground slots to safely distribute electricity to appliances and lighting.
In areas exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces, these receptacles must feature ground fault circuit interrupter protection to prevent electrical shocks. Understanding the location and capacity of these receptacles is important during home inspections to ensure the electrical system meets local safety codes.
Key facts
| Category | Property Types & Construction |
|---|---|
| Standard voltage | Typically one hundred twenty volts |
| Safety features | May include tamper-resistant shutters or GFCI protection |
| Required locations | Living spaces, bedrooms, kitchens, and hallways |
During her walk-through, a buyer notes that the duplex receptacle in the kitchen island has a reset button, confirming it is a GFCI outlet as required by local building codes.
Frequently asked questions
What is a tamper-resistant duplex receptacle?
It is a safety outlet with built-in spring-loaded shutters that block foreign objects, such as keys or bobby pins, from being inserted unless equal pressure is applied to both slots simultaneously.
Can you wire a duplex receptacle so only one outlet is controlled by a wall switch?
Yes, by breaking the metal tab connecting the two brass terminals on the side of the receptacle, an electrician can wire one outlet to be always hot and the other to be controlled by a switch.