Change Summary

• Receptacles that are controlled by an automatic control device must be permanently marked with the symbol shown in Figure 406.3(E) and the word “Controlled.” Required marking must be on the receptacle face (not the cover plate) and be visible after installation.

Expert Analysis

For the 2017 NEC, 406.3(E) was revised to provide additional requirements that will help people identify controlled receptacles that are part of an energy management system. One of these revisions requires that the word “Controlled” be placed on the controlled receptacle along with the previous symbol. The word “Controlled” was also added to Figure 406.3(E). Marking the receptacle with the word “Controlled” will help the end user better understand which receptacle is controlled, even if the end user is not familiar with electrical symbols.

Another change that occurred at 406.3(E) deals with the exact location where the marking of the controlled receptacle is to be placed. For the 2017 NEC, the symbol and the word “Controlled” are to be placed on the face of the controlled receptacle and be visible after installation. The 2014 NEC provisions allowed the symbol to be placed on the receptacle face or the faceplate. If the controlled receptacle marking only appeared on the faceplate, the controlled receptacle itself and its original intended faceplate could be easily separated. An example of this is when the walls are repainted.

To meet the requirements for identifying receptacles that will be automatically de-energized by a mechanical switch or as part of an overall plug load control program, Leviton offers a complete line of receptacles with the “Controlled Receptacle Marking Symbol” and the word “CONTROLLED” on the receptacle face. Available in 15- and 20-Amp ratings and in many colors for both standard duplex and Decora® configurations.