💡 Understanding Switched Outlets in Your Home 💡

Did you know a standard electrical outlet (duplex receptacle) can power two different things at once, with one controlled by a switch? Perfect for kitchen setups! This diagram shows a Switched Duplex Receptacle for dedicated appliances like a dishwasher and garbage disposal. Key Takeaways & Code Compliance: Splitting the Power (The Tab): Remove the tab on the hot (brass) side to separate the top and bottom screws—feed one constant power, and one switched power. Switched Hot Wire (top outlet): Connects to a wall switch for the Garbage Disposal. Unswitched Hot Wire (bottom outlet): Provides constant power for the Dishwasher. Neutral Side (Silver Screws): The metal tab connecting the two silver screw terminals is typically left in place unless the receptacle is served by two completely separate circuits (not a shared neutral). In the case of a shared neutral multi-wire branch circuit (MWBC), the neutral wire is shared by both circuits and lands on one of the silver screws. ⚠️ Mandatory NEC Safety Requirements (Multi-Wire Branch Circuit) For the configuration shown to be Code-Compliant and safe, these rules must be followed: Simultaneous Disconnect (NEC 210.4(B) and 210.7): Because two separate circuits are supplying devices on the same yoke (the metal strap), there must be a means to shut off both hot wires at the same time. This is achieved at the panel by using: A 2-Pole Circuit Breaker (Common Trip). OR two single-pole breakers with an approved Handle Tie.