incorrect.
It may simply mean that the replacement was installed according to the installer’s preferred orientation.
Does an Upside-Down Outlet Work Differently?
In many ordinary installations, the receptacle’s physical orientation doesn’t change the basic function of the outlet.
A properly wired receptacle can supply power whether the grounding opening is above or below the blade slots.
The important issue is the electrical connections inside the receptacle—not whether the ground opening happens to be on top.
That said, the orientation can matter for certain practical or safety considerations, which is why it’s worth understanding what you’re looking at.
Is an Upside-Down Outlet Safer?
This is where you may hear a particularly interesting explanation.
Some people argue that installing the grounding opening on top can provide an additional safety benefit when a partially inserted plug or metal object comes into contact with the receptacle.
The idea is that if a heavy metal
