Does anyone know what is the difference between a Leviton 16252-WS outlet versus a 16252-W? The "WS" version sells for 4.99 at Home Depot (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Leviton-Decora-Plus-15-Amp-Duplex-Outlet-White-R62-16252-0WS/100191324?keyword=16252-0ws) while the "W" version sells for 2.91 at an online wholesale store (http://www.westsidewholesale.com/leviton-16252-w.html).
Was wondering if they are the same.
Background context: I'm attempting to replace many of our home's outlets and came into this issue. I've originally purchased standard Leviton 15A-125v outlets, and it worked perfectly for first of few of the outlets I plan to replace. However, I also encountered many outlets where the wires seem to be too thick to fit into the standard outlets. I went back to Home Depot and was pointed to "heavy duty" outlets that have a larger wire holes, but the price is more than twice of the standard version. Considering I need to replace ~30 outlets, this would be quite the hit on my wallet. I couldn't find anything about the "WS" version anywhere online, including the official site, but found "W" version which is considerably cheaper.
Edit: I wasn't expecting a reply but still did sent an email to Leviton, and they responded today! According to the person on email, the two models I've listed above are identical. He seems to imply the ending characters on the product number are per retailer.
Best Answer
16252-0WS is a "heavy duty" "Decora Plus" version of the 16252. The "W" simply means white.
If your home is wired with plastic boxes, or even has ground tails to the receptacles already, then the self-grounding devices are not needed/wanted. You'd just be spending more money for no reason. You should however use TR, or tamper resistant, receptacles.
These are what you are looking for: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Leviton-Decora-15-Amp-Tamper-Resistant-Duplex-Outlet-White-10-Pack-M22-T5325-WMP/100684055