Electricians in Port St. Lucie, FL, discuss different types of electrical outlets and what they are used for.
Types of Outlets and Their Uses
Everyone knows what electrical outlets are since they are so heavily used daily. Whether people are plugging in their phone charger or a coffee maker, it’s the component of electrical systems that the average person comes into contact with most frequently. However, there are different types of electrical outlets, each with different uses and benefits. This blog post will discuss some common types of electrical outlets and share the differences.
AFCI Outlets
AFCI or arc-fault circuit interrupter outlets were once mainly required by electrical codes for bedrooms. However, they’re now required in most areas of the house, including living rooms, family rooms, dining rooms, hallways, and more.
An AFCI outlet helps prevent electrical fires by interrupting the power when dangerous arcs are detected. It can distinguish between a harmless, incidental arc and one that is potentially dangerous and is a fire hazard. This makes AFCI outlets crucial for electrical safety.
GFCI Outlets
On the other hand, GFCI or ground-fault circuit interrupter outlets are required by electrical codes in areas that may be exposed to water, such as in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, outdoors, crawl spaces, and unfinished basements.
A GFCI outlet helps prevent dangerous ground faults and cuts the power to avoid hazards. Electric shock is a significant danger of ground faults, so while AFCI outlets help prevent fires, GFCI outlets help prevent shocks. An electrician can help homeowners determine the best type of outlet for each space.
Tamper-Resistant Outlets
Another type of outlet that is important for electrical safety is a tamper-resistant or childproof outlet. A tamper-resistant outlet has a shutter mechanism, which only opens for a plug when equal pressure is applied at once, preventing young children from electrical injuries due to sticking something in an outlet.
Many places require tamper-resistant outlets for general areas of homes and commercial properties, such as hotels, child-care facilities, and more, to protect children from electrical injuries like shocks. Exceptions often include outlets high off the ground and out of reach of children.
About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air
Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has been serving the Treasure Coast area for over 30 years. They provide upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and fast turnarounds. Call them for electrical outlet installation and replacement in Port St. Lucie, FL.