Just like electrical plugs, there are several types of electrical outlets in the US, each with different features and wiring requirements. However, the most common among them are 15-amp outlets - which accept standard plugs for almost all small appliances.
But do you know about all the outlet types in your home? Well, this guide is to help you with understanding the outlets as knowing them makes a huge difference to your safety, energy consumption, etc.
7 Types of Electrical Outlets in the US
Here are a few electrical outlet types you’ll find in the US -
2 Prong Electrical Outlets
These are mostly outdated outlets as they are 15-amp, 125 volt, two-wired outlets. Usually, 2 prong outlets are found in homes older than 50 years. These outlets have safety concerns, as they have no ground wiring and they were not up to date to the electrical code requirements.
They are mostly used in homes that have minimal light usage and have appliances like kettles, toasters, beaters, etc. Hence, it is advisable to upgrade to 3 prong electrical outlets, or switch to modern new-tech outlets for being compliant to the updated code.
3 Prong Electrical Outlets
3 prongs are 15 amp and 125 volts, and have become the standard outlet for homes and businesses in the USA, and is the best replacement for 2 prong outlets. Also, 3 prong outlets also comply with recent building codes.
It has two vertical slots and one upside-down U-shaped grounding hole below the two vertical ones. The grounding wire helps prevent electrical shock in case wirings come loose in any appliance plugged in. They are best for electrical usage, so it is advisable for all homeowners to replace their 2-prong with 3-prong electrical outlets. They are safe for bigger appliances such as - TVs, heaters, vacuum cleaners, etc., as they use more voltage and amperage.
20 Amp Electrical Outlets - 125 Volt
They are best for larger home appliances, such as - kitchen or laundry equipment. They are almost similar to 3 prong, 15-amp types of outlets. However, with the addition of a T-shaped horizontal pin on the left vertical slot.
Examples of kitchen and laundry appliances are - refrigerators, laundry, mixers, blenders, microwaves, etc.
20 Amp Electrical Outlets - 250 Volt
20 Amp electrical outlets - 250 volt is used for electrical appliances that are larger and require much higher voltage output. They may look similar to 20 Amp electrical outlets - 125 volt version. They are best used for compressors and other larger appliances, such as - large ovens, electrical stoves, water heaters, etc.
So, if you are a DIY-er, this outlet is the right choice for your home.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Outlets
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets have built-in circuitry that works by using an internal breaker to trip if there is a short circuit. It monitors the stability of the electrical current through them. They are mostly used in the kitchen, basements, laundry rooms, bathroom, etc.
GFCI protects the household from electrical hazards and protects you from electrical shocks. This is because they can sense a current imbalance within a millisecond and react immediately. They can easily be identified by two small different colored buttons - Test and Reset.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) Outlets
AFCI outlets protect against arcing. This happens when electricity jumps between the loose connections or contact points in the electrical system. This creates unusual heating which causes fire hazard. During an arc, the AFCI outlet detects it, and the inbuilt break deactivates the outlet immediately.
They are quite similar to GFCI outlets and are mostly used in spaces such as - bedroom, living room, etc. They are easy to integrate. All you need to do is to replace the individual outlets or by replacing circuit breakers which can protect multiple outlets at a time.
Tamper Resistant Outlets
It is important to prevent children from playing with electrical outlets. If, by any chance, they stick a conductive object through the outlet, they might get a shock. The worst part is that short-circuiting caused by such an incident can lead to a fire outbreak.
Earlier, people used outlet covers to protect children. However, it completely blocked using the outlets, unless removed. So, these days, people are inclined more towards tamper-resistant outlets. They have spring loaded shutters that prevent anything else, apart from the plugs to enter. Also, they remove any shock hazard during an attempt to insert something apart from plugs.
Other Modern Electrical Outlets
USB Outlets
USB outlets are mainly designed to match the mobile-friendly lifestyle these days. They are an upgrade to your home, which has one or more USB ports and is easy to use for multiple devices. There are various options available -
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2 standard USB-A ports
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Others with single-use USB-C built-in port
They are available in various amperage that supports the power requirements of all the devices. Also, you can change or replace the outlets with USB-only receptacles - which usually come with up to four USB charging ports.
Switched Outlets
A switched outlet allows you to keep lights and electrical appliances plugged in even when not in use. It helps you control the lights using a wall switch. This means you can switch on and off the table lamp located at your bedside by operating the switch at the entrance of your room.
Smart Outlets
They are one of the most sought-after outlets, as they’re Wi-Fi-connected outlets that allow you to connect with smart home appliances. Also, you can add voice control for functionality, and the best part is that you can monitor them. Moreover, you have the flexibility of switching outlets wherever you need to.
| Notes | Smart outlets can help monitor energy usage and make your home more efficient. |
Conclusion
The right outlet is very important and should be based on the requirements of your home. With so many options available, you can mix and match them to improve safety and efficiency. Consider a professional to install power outlets, as they are licensed, bonded, and certified. They also help you choose the best outlet for your home.
