Matching Power Outlets and Plugs
There is nothing more concerning than plugging electronics into the wrong voltage. It will not only damage your devices but injuries and fires may also happen. Matching power outlets and plugs is sometimes a little confusing—here is a guide we created to help you out.
What are electrical sockets and plugs?
The sockets are responsible for drawing electric current and then supplying it through an electrical plug and into the appliance or device. They are rated in voltage and amperage which are measures of electrical flows.
Voltage and ampere measure electric current but they have different meanings. Voltage refers to the pressure pushing the electricity. Amperage is the unit measuring electric charge in motion.
Electrical outlets also have two main types: domestic and industrial. You can easily differentiate industrial plugs and outlets from the ones used in a household by their appearance.
- Industrial outlets and plugs. Industrial plugs are much bulkier than residential plugs as they are used for heavy-power equipment and machines. They also use a 3-phase 4-wire electrical energy distribution.
The industrial plug and outlet have their own safety measures and dedicated circuit breaker. Most industrial types of plugs and outlets have a thermoplastic material to weatherproof the products. They are safe to handle even with bare hands.
- Household plugs and outlets. As the name suggests, this type is what regular home electronics and appliances use. Common appliances that have this type of plug include air conditioners and washing machines.
There are different voltages found in residential properties. The most common US homes have 110 volts or 220 volts.
An electrical safety tip to remember is to check for the voltage requirement before plugging appliances into an outlet and always check the nameplate first.
The label or nameplate should have voltage requirements. It is important that the appliance’s voltage is in the correct range with the electrical outlet.
Standard Voltage and Amps for Household Appliances
Voltage and amps are two things most people care less about when at home, but to avoid overloading and accidents, know the outlet voltage installed in your house.
When doing a home rewiring job or electrical work, it is crucial to know the different outlets and plugs. The 110, 220, and 240 volts are the common outlets found in residential properties, and each of these is designed for specific appliances or electronics.
110-volt 15 and 20-amps
Many US homes have 110-volt outlets as they draw less current, posing less of a risk compared to voltages used in other countries.
The 110-volt sockets are designed to match a three-pronged plug. Many electronic devices are made to suit 110 volts 15 amp, some examples of which include microwaves and TVs.
The 110-volt 20-amp outlets have two vertical inputs, but one is a T-shaped slot. The T-shaped slot will help prevent incompatible plugs from making electrical contact.
Special electrical equipment is needed when using a 110-volt appliance in a 220-volt outlet. Unless the appliance is dual-voltage, plugging into the wrong outlet is dangerous as it can create irreparable damage and cause accidents.
Many household electronics and appliances that run on 110 volts to 120 volts include:
- Hair curling irons.
- Mini tabletop grinder.
- Coffee maker.
- Blender and mixers.
220 volt 15, 20, and 30 amps
It would be impossible to confuse this type with other outlets and plugs as the 220 volts 15 amp has larger plugs compared to the regular 110 volts. They have the same slots and pins as the normal 110 volts 15 and 20 amps but are larger.
Home appliances that demand a higher level of power are usually designed for 220 volts and 15 or 20 amps. Power tools and some kitchen appliances like dryers and ovens run on 220 volts at 20 amps. Compared to the 110 volts, this type is more efficient and transmits power more cheaply.
The 220-volt 30 amp is larger than the 15 and 20 amps and requires a dedicated circuit. This type is used for large appliances that require massive power to function.
A transformer or converter will be essential when using a 220 – 240 volt appliance at a 110-volt outlet.
Here are some 220-volt household appliances:
- Washers and dryers.
- Refrigerators.
- Air conditioners.
- Garbage disposals.
- Kitchen ranges.
- Generators.
- Freezers.
- Food processors.
- Electric kettles.
- Water heaters.
- Vacuums.
- Jigsaw.
- Heat guns.
- Leaf blowers.
- Electric chainsaw.
How To Determine Whether the Appliance Or Electrical System is 110 Volts Or 220 Volts?
- Check the voltage details from the appliance’s nameplate. The nameplate is often placed on the bottom or one side of the device.
- Check the electrical plug. Appliances that require specific voltage use specific plugs as well. For example, a traditional 220-volt has a configuration of three flat prongs. The pins are also in a triangular pattern.
- If you cannot find the information you need from the manuals, call customer support.
Hire a Certified Electrician Nearby for Electrical Installations, Repairs, or Maintenance
Are you planning on installing a new electrical outlet in your home? Or want to install more circuits in your breaker? If the answer is yes, contact ElectriCall today. Our expert electricians are skilled and can safely perform electrical work.
We are a company that consists of experts and licensed electricians in Arvada, here to assist in all kinds of electrical jobs.