To avoid installation issues, what is required for receptacles installed in countertops?

Receptacles installed in countertops must be listed for such installations to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes. This requirement is essential because countertop receptacles are subject to potential exposure to moisture and accidental contact with liquids, such as from spilled food or beverages.

Using receptacles that are specifically listed for countertop installation means they have been tested and rated for this type of environment, ensuring they are safe and functional. This designation is critical not only for the safety of the appliances that may be plugged into these receptacles but also to prevent electrical faults, which could lead to short circuits or fires.

While other options may seem reasonable, they do not specifically address the need for safety standards for installation in countertops. For example, receptacles being face-up may be a consideration for convenience, and a waist height installation is an ergonomic choice, but neither of these factors guarantees safety or compliance with necessary electrical standards. Weatherproofing is important for outdoor installations, but it is not applicable in standard kitchen or indoor countertop scenarios. Therefore, ensuring that receptacles are properly listed for countertop use is the key requirement to avoid installation issues.