How do 2023 NEC changes affect receptacle termination types and ratings?

Overview 

Receptacle are electrical devices where power terminals of different appliances can be plugged. Receptacles have different types, sizes, and ratings which determine how much power they can handle. However, NEC 2020 did not consider the limitations set by the type of receptacle termination used. Sub-section 406.3(D) was repurposed in the 2023 edition of NEC, to explain the use, limitations, and rating requirements for receptacles with simple terminations, CO/ALR terminations, and screwless (push-in) terminations. This addition was made to provide a reference for electricians installing receptacles with various terminations within the electrical system.

Applying the 2023 Code 

 
Power is delivered to devices through a purpose-built component known as a receptacle. However, using a low-rated receptacle to power a high-current motor can lead to short circuits and burnouts, posing serious safety risks. This can only be addressed through proper circuit design and implementation that takes into account the limitations of the receptacle being used. To address this issue, the permitted use, ratings, and limitations of different types of receptacles were previously outlined in Section 406.3 of the NEC 2020. However, the determination of the loading characteristics of the receptacle device only considered its main components, overlooking the crucial role played by the type, material, and construction of the receptacle terminations. Consequently, in the 2023 edition of the NEC, subsection 406.3(D) was revised to elaborate on the use, limitations, and rating requirements for receptacles with simple terminations, CO/ALR terminations, and screwless (push-in) terminations. The provisions of this updated subsection aim to highlight the significant characteristics of receptacle terminations for accurate loading calculations in electrical systems. Incorporating receptacle terminations into loading calculations will enable electrical professionals to design more accurate wiring and protection schemes for electrical installations. 

What’s New for the 2023 NEC? 

The table below presents a comparison between the 2020 NEC and the 2023 NEC regarding Section 406.3.