406.5(G) Receptacle Orientation.

Receptacles are permitted below a sink, but not face-up.
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Receptacles are permitted below a sink, but not face-up.

Code Change Summary: New code section prohibits receptacles under a sink in a face-up position.

Receptacles installed in a face-up position under a kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or any other sink are not only a terrible idea, they are now a code violation (refer to image). The new code section added in the 2020 NEC® makes it crystal clear that receptacles are not permitted to be installed face-up under any sink.

All it takes is a leaky sink or faucet plus a face-up receptacle under a sink to create a recipe for disaster. The plumber laying on his back under the sink fixing a leaky faucet will appreciate this code change.

Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2020 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.

2017 Code Language:

406.5(G) Receptacle Orientation. Receptacles shall not be installed in a face-up position in or on countertop surfaces or work surfaces unless listed for countertop or work surface applications.

2020 Code Language:

406.5(G) Receptacle Orientation.

N (1) Countertop and Work Surfaces. Receptacles shall not be installed in a face-up position in or on countertop surfaces or work surfaces unless listed for countertop or work surface applications.

N (2) Under Sinks. Receptacles shall not be installed in a face-up position in the area below a sink.

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406.5(G) Receptacle Orientation.

Below is a Real Question from our Electrical Continuing Education Courses for Electrical License Renewal:

Based on the 2020 NEC, which of the following is true?

A: AFCI protection is required for any receptacle installed under a sink.
B: Receptacles are permitted in a face-up position under a sink if GFCI protected.
C: Receptacles are permitted in a face-up position under a sink.
D: Receptacles shall not be installed in a face-up position in the area below a sink.
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