/ Field knowledge · NEC 100 · Sparky Edition
Outlet and receptacle are not synonyms.
NEC Article 100: outlet and receptacle are not synonyms. An AHU can be hardwired and still be supplied at an outlet. “Power exists” is not an existing-condition record.
Educational 2026 NEC Article 100 terminology. Confirm the adopted edition. This is not a circuiting design.
- Equipment is the broad term for items used as part of, or in connection with, an electrical installation.
- A device principally carries or controls electrical energy. Utilization equipment uses electrical energy to perform a function.
- An outlet is the point on the wiring system where current is taken to supply utilization equipment.
- A receptacle is a contact device installed at an outlet for connection of an attachment plug or compatible utilization equipment. It is not a universal substitute for “outlet.”
That distinction matters when a requirement addresses receptacle outlets, equipment connections, branch circuits, disconnecting means, or maintenance power. Identify hardwired versus cord-and-plug before circuiting is frozen.
Generic power symbol
At an existing unit, record the entire path: nameplate, connection type, outlet/termination, disconnect, circuit ID, and panel origin if verifiable. If a reviewer cannot tell how the load is connected and controlled, the schedule is not coordinated.
Source: Sparky outlet/receptacle · branch: OCPD boundary · listed: listed vs labeled.
What to send
A photo of the connection (safe access only) and whether it is hardwired or cord-and-plug.
If the survey just says “power exists”
Send the connection photo. Masterbuild will say whether Article 100 even has an outlet on that drawing — or a receptacle was assumed.
Send Project Background+1 (786) 398-6940 · osmany.portal@masterbuildconsulting.com
Masterbuild provides engineering services under a written scope. Nothing on this page is project-specific engineering advice, a code interpretation for your project, or a representation about permit approval. Sparky Edition uses the 2026 NEC as model-code education. Confirm the adopted edition. Field observations do not establish electrical safety; only qualified personnel using required safe-work procedures should access electrical equipment. This page does not size conductors or pick bonding locations.