Journeyman Electrician Exam (NEC)Equipment and DevicesEasy
A technician is installing a new 120-volt, 15-ampere general-purpose duplex receptacle in a dry location. Which NEMA configuration is typically used for this application?
- ANEMA 5-20R
- BNEMA 14-30R
- CNEMA 5-15R
- DNEMA 6-15R
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. NEMA 5-15R
The NEMA 5-15R configuration is the standard for a 120-volt, 15-ampere grounded general-purpose receptacle, commonly found in homes and offices.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. NEMA 5-20R is a 120-volt, 20-ampere receptacle, recognizable by its T-shaped neutral slot.
- B. NEMA 14-30R is a 125/250-volt, 30-ampere receptacle, typically used for electric ranges or dryers.
- D. NEMA 6-15R is a 250-volt, 15-ampere receptacle, used for higher voltage applications, not 120V.
NEMA 5-15R Receptacle
The NEMA 5-15R is a standard configuration for a 120-volt, 15-ampere, three-prong (grounded) receptacle commonly used for general-purpose applications in residential and commercial settings.
- 5 indicates 125 volts.
- 15 indicates 15 amperes.
- R indicates receptacle.
- It has two vertical slots and a round ground hole.
Memory trick: NEMA codes: Number-Number-Letter tells you Voltage, Amps, and Type.