Types of Electrical Outlets You Can Have At Home

Electrical outlets are a pivotal part of any residential or commercial property. So installing the right one is important to help maintain a hazard-free space. This guide aims to share the electrical outlets you are allowed to install at home.

Before looking for an “electrician near me,” know the types of electrical outlets first.  Understanding the various kinds will help you choose the best for your lifestyle. And to avoid getting scammed by an unprofessional contractor.

Two-Pronged Outlet and Three-Pronged Outlet

These types of outlets are often 120 volts and can be found in older homes. The National Electric Code allows two and three-pronged outlets in good condition. However, some professional Arvada electricians would recommend these be replaced. That is because traditional outlets are often not grounded.

125 Volt Outlets

Devices and large appliances that need more power often need this type of outlet. It is similar to a three-pronged outlet, but with a T-shape slot on the side. It is best used for home appliances like dishwashers, space heaters, and washing machines.

250 Volt Outlets

Bigger appliances or power tools often require more power to function. Large ovens, air compressors, dryers, and HVAC need a higher level of power to operate. A 250-volt outlet is often the recommended outlet for these types of equipment.

A 250-volt outlet usually has its own circuit. That means, it can only accommodate one appliance that meets the circuit’s capacity. And it will be dangerous and a violation to plug in additional devices.

It is important for your property to pass all electrical inspections to ensure the safety of all. When dealing with 250-volt outlets, contact a professional Arvada electrician.

GFCI Outlets

When installing electrical outlets near a pool or close to water, use a GFCI receptacle. Bathrooms, laundry areas, and basements are some of the areas in your home where the GFCI is the best option. 

A GFCI electrical outlet can track electrical flows. It can sense fluctuations and immediately trips the power to prevent an electrical surge. Today, GFCI outlets are required for two-family homes and multifamily buildings. The NEC provides a complete list of where GFCI receptacles should be installed.

AFCI Receptacles

Without proper insulation, electric current arches. That instance creates intense heat that could lead to a fire. Nails, screws, and loose electrical connections on the wall often cause arc faults. 

To avoid arc faults, use the AFCI type of outlet. This type is specifically designed to break the flow of electricity in case of arc faults.  It prevents fires and accidents such as fatal electrical shocks.

Tamper-Resistant Receptacles

Most states have made tamper-resistant receptacles the standard in construction. It is a safe choice, especially for families with pets and children.

This type of residential outlet looks like a regular outlet. However, it has a spring-loaded shutter feature. What it does is prevent tampering and electrical shocks. 

Tamper-resistant receptacles require both blades of a plug to simultaneously press both shutters. This is a safety mechanism to ensure safe electrical contact.

USB Outlets

Making your home more modern and efficient gets simpler with USB outlets. This type will allow you to directly plug your electronics into the outlet without the need for a charger.

The USB outlets will come in handy for your home since most devices today use USB charging cables. Installing a USB outlet will solve your frustrations with a lost or broken USB charger. Simply plug your device directly into the USB port in the outlet!

Switched Outlets

Do you have appliances or devices that you frequently use but do not want to always plug and remove? The switched outlet may be what you need.

Switched outlets look like traditional outlets. The main difference is that a receptacle can be turned on or off via a wall switch. The other receptacle is like is always ready to provide electricity. 

This type of outlet can help increase the protection of your property. It helps avoid devices overheating and creating electrical shocks.

Smart Outlets

Aside from USB outlets, modernizing homes can be achieved with smart outlets. Do you want to monitor your home’s energy usage? Install smart outlets around your house.

This type is the go-to for exciting innovations including voice and phone app control. Smart outlets are easy to control and help make everyday routines more efficient.

Some smart outlets have timers you can set. So you do not have to worry about turning space heaters, air conditioners, and decorative lights on and off.  

Call an Arvada Electrician for Your Next Electrical Work

Need to reconfigure your electrical outlets? When doing an installation or home rewiring job? Let professional Arvada electricians do it for you. 

As a reliable Arvada electrical company, we offer professional electrical services. We will help you feel safer and more comfortable at home.

We will help you avoid accidents and safety issues like electric shocks. And we follow home electrical codes to ensure you can plug appliances and devices safely into the outlets.  

Call ElectriCall today! Get an idea of how much electrical installation like installing electrical outlets costs. Talk with our professional electricians about your electrical repair or maintenance project!