Hello Bill...

I'm not an electrician...but I've heard that the "upside down" method isn't really a bad way to go. Reason: if a plug were to be half out of the socket, and something metallic were to fall on it. If it lays across the ground on an upside-down socket, no harm done. If it lays across the two prongs of a right-side up socket, shortsville.

It probably doesn't happen often. If it were me, I wouldn't go to the trouble of flipping them. Of course if an electrician writes in with contrary advice, his/hers should supercede mine.

later,
-k2.

Bill, K2 is right (and I am an electrician). Mr. Electric

As a courtesy, I like to install switched outlets upside down, with the switched leg undernieth. Kinds of a flag for the next guy that can't figure out which is the switched outlet.

But to answer your question. There is no code requirement for the orientation of the receptacle and you will find that the electrician or the home owner usually place it the way they like it.

I asked the same question.

"Doesn't matter where you go in life, there you are!"

Lance