Which type of receptacle must be accessible for servicing when used with HVAC equipment?

The correct answer is that a nonlocking-type receptacle must be accessible for servicing when used with HVAC equipment. This requirement is rooted in safety and functionality principles. Nonlocking-type receptacles are designed for use in applications where frequent access to the receptacle is necessary, such as with HVAC systems that may require regular maintenance or troubleshooting.

In the context of HVAC equipment, maintenance personnel need to be able to easily disconnect power to the equipment or make adjustments safely. The nonlocking feature facilitates this convenience, allowing the technician to access the receptacle without the need for special tools or complex procedures that locking types may necessitate.

Locking-type receptacles, while secure and often used in industrial settings to prevent accidental disconnections, do not prioritize easy access during servicing. Weatherproof types focus more on environmental protection rather than accessibility. While all receptacle types may have specific applications in different scenarios, the nonlocking-type specifically aligns with the safety and accessibility needs of servicing HVAC equipment.