Wiring a 15amp 125volt Receptacle with Multiwire Configuration

Is it permissible to connect a 15A, 125V duplex receptacle to both phase conductors of a 120 240V, single phase multiwire branch circuit?

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Multi-Wire Duplex Receptacle Outlet
Electrical Question: Is it permissible to connect a 15A, 125V duplex receptacle to both phase conductors of a 120 240V, single phase multiwire branch circuit by breaking out the tab connection between the two ‘hot’ terminal screws of the receptacle? I have seen this practice used in residential construction.

This electrical wiring question came from Michael, a Electrician in Maine.

Michael, Thank You for Visiting Ask-the-Electrician!

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Michael.

Wiring a Multi-Wire Duplex Receptacle Outlet

Application: Wiring a Multi-Wire Wall Outlet.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, or Certified Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source to the Wall Outlet, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials for the Wall Outlet should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in your specific location. A permit and inspections may also be required.

Wiring a Duplex Receptacle Outlet

This electrical wiring project is about Wiring a Wall Outlet in an Apartment.

Multiwire Configuration
Reviewing the Electrical Question:

Is it permissible to connect a 15A, 125V duplex receptacle to both phase conductors of a 120 240V, single phase multiwire branch circuit by breaking out the tab connection between the two ‘hot’ terminal screws of the receptacle?
Michael, from the information you have provided, Yes this practice is acceptable for wiring an electric outlet with a multi-wire configuration.

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Includes:
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This is great to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring, is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect, Very handy and easy to use.

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Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

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