Reverse "hot and Neutrals" at NEMA 5-15

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TEConRB

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Speyer
Hi,
can somebody tells me if it is allowed to reverse "hot and Neutrals" in a grounded power outlet like the NEMA 5-15 or if it is quite common to do so?
If it is not allowed could you name me the standard where it is specified (NEC, NEMA....)
Does it makes a different how strong the load is (in Amps)?
Thanks for your replies.
Best regards
Robert
 
charlie b

charlie b

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Lockport, IL
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Retired Electrical Engineer
The interesting part of this question is that I am certain it is not allowed, indeed that it is dangerous, but I can't think off the top of my head of what code article would be the one that prohibits it. The dangerous part is that the equipment being plugged into the receptacle will have its on/off switch as the first thing that the incoming wires connect to. With the hot and neutral reversed, the entire internal wiring of the equipment will be live, with the on/off switch in the off position.

My question back to you is this: why would you want to do this anyway? :?
 
Smart $

Smart $

Esteemed Member
Location
Ohio
Being a NEMA configuration, likely specified in a NEMA standard... :p

There may be something in UL standards, and as far as the NEC goes, the instructions typically have a wiring diagram (i.e. instructions) that must be adhered to per 110.3(B)... and 200.10 & 11.
 
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