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A receptacle can accommodate two plugs at the same time. Duplex means that there are two outlet sets, one next to the other in the same electrical box so that a total of four plugs can be used. Originally, receptacles were neither grounded nor polarized; later, they became polarized but not grounded. Today, receptacles include a screw terminal for a grounding connection. These receptacles have a total of five terminal screws. On the one side of the receptacle there are two brass screw terminals for black/red hot-wire connections. On the other side of the receptacle are two silver screw terminals for white neutral-wire connections and one green screw terminal for a bare copper wire connection. How many wires are actually connected to a receptacle is determined by whether the connection occurs at the end or in the middle of a wiring run. An end-of-run receptacle (see the instructions below) will have only one cable entering the box, while a middle-of-run receptacle will have two.
Determine the location of the receptacle, and, before starting work, shut off power to that circuit. A general rule of thumb is that receptacle boxes should be centered 12 inches above the floor--18 inches for handicapped accessibility--and you may have your own specific reasons to install them at a different height. Generally they are easier to reach the higher they are, yet it is still preferred they remain low so that they can be hidden easily by furniture. Receptacle boxes over countertops should be centered 4 feet above the finished floor, as should receptacle boxes in bathrooms and garages. Laundry receptacles are typically placed at a height of 42 inches. If necessary, cut a hole in the drywall, using a keyhole saw, and then once the framing is exposed, securely fasten an electrical box for the receptacle. When done, close the hole in the wall, using new drywall, and then tape and finish the edges of the drywall.
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