Hard-to-Use Electrical Outlets
Tamper-resistant receptacles can make it difficult to insert a plug. Here are the code-acceptable solutions.
I have a customer who recently downsized to a condominium with tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles. She asked if I could switch them out because she finds it difficult to plug in devices. I agree that some TR receptacles are a real pain, especially with light-duty plugs like those on lamps. Is there a solution?
— Stephanie Renee; Trumbull, Conn.
Electrician David Shapiro Replies
Tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles first appeared in the 2008 National Electric Code (NEC) and in the International Residential Code (IRC) in 2009. Since the 2008 NEC update, TR receptacles have been mandated in all new residential construction. The intent of the TR code provisions is to prevent kids from getting shocked.
These receptacles prevent the insertion of foreign objects with built-in shutters that only open when equal pressure is applied to both prongs of a plug. The safety aspect is beneficial, but many electrical professionals agree that TR receptacles make it difficult to insert a plug.
Some tradespeople and DIYers might swap them for regular non-TR receptacles, which are still available. The potential for death or injury makes it a risk I would not take. However, I hear that newer versions of TR receptacles from all major electrical-device manufacturers are superior to the first iterations installed around the 2010s. A good first step might be to install samples of more-modern versions from two or three manufacturers and then change out the existing ones in regularly used locations for the TR outlet your client likes best.
If your client still has difficulty inserting plugs into conventional TR receptacles, you might suggest Hubbell’s Safety Grade TR receptacles. As mentioned, TR outlets generally use shutters that block the slots unless both prongs of a plug are inserted properly.
Hubbell’s Safety Grade industrial-grade GFCIs and hospital-grade receptacles don’t have shutters; instead, they use a switch mechanism to energize the contacts when the hot and neutral sides of a plug are inserted. These receptacles are designed for use in healthcare facilities, so the downside is that in residential quantities, they start at around $200 apiece. However, they are well-made and should last many years.
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