8 Different Types of Electrical Outlets Homeowners Should Know
- 15-Amp By far, the 15-amp is the most common outlet found in homes throughout the United States. In most cases, you’ll notice three slots into which an electrical device can be plugged. The longer vertical slots are neutral, while the third slot below is a grounding hole. ...
- 20-Amp ...
- GFCI ...
- AFCI ...
- USB Outlets ...
- Tamper-Resistant Outlets ...
- Smart Outlets ...
- Combination Outlets ...
What are the different types of electrical outlets?
- 15A 120V Outlet
- 20A 120V Outlet
- 20A 240V Outlet
- 30A 240V Outlet
- 30A 120V / 240V Outlet
- 50A 120V / 240V Outlet
- GFCI Outlet
- AFCI Outlet
- Tamper Resistant Receptacle
- Weather Resistant Receptacle
What is the correct way to install an electrical outlet?
- Before touching any wires in an electrical box, always test for power with a non-contact voltage tester to make sure the power is off. ...
- The wire connections must be made carefully to ensure safety and proper operation. ...
- Never connect more than one wire to a single terminal. ...
What is a regular electrical outlet called?
The device into which you plug your appliances is called an outlet. Although device manufacturers usually refer to them as receptacles, and consumers sometimes refer to them as plugs or sockets, they are most commonly called outlets. Most households still have the rounded standard duplex outlets, but duplex Decora devices are gaining in popularity.
What are the different types of outlets?
Electrical Outlet Types Compare electrical outlet types to find the right size wall plug or socket for your home or business. Choose from 15A, 20A, TL (locking), GFCI, AFCI, 120V, 240V, round, or square receptacles depending upon need, style, and current safety considerations.
What plug adapter do I need for USA?
The official voltage for the USA and Canada is 120 volts, with most electrical goods operating at around 110 volts. All of North America operates on a 2 pronged North American outlet, with a third optional round pin. If you are traveling to North America, you will need a North American power point adapter.
What is A standard US plug called?
The Type B electrical socket (American standard NEMA 5-15) has two flat parallel pins and a round earth pin. The earth pin is longer than the flat pins so that the appliance is grounded before the power is applied.
Do I need 15 or 20 amp outlets?
Standard 15-amp receptacles are suitable for typical household appliances, lamps and other accessories. A 20-amp receptacle is for heavy-duty appliances and power tools, such as air compressors. Residential garages occasionally have 20-amp receptacles to accommodate larger power tools.
What are the 4 types of electrical outlets?
7 Electrical Outlet Types & How To Use Them15-Amp Duplex Receptacle. In the U.S., most homes have a combination of 15-amp and 20-amp, 120-volt circuits. ... 20A Outlets. 20A outlets, combined with 20A circuits, are a good choice for devices in need of more power. ... Switched Outlets. ... GFCI & AFCI Outlets. ... USB & Smart Outlets.
Are US plugs 110 or 220?
In Europe and many other countries, AC wall outlets are 220 to 240 volts. In the US, the standard AC outlets are 110 to 120 volts. If you're a frequent traveler, you need to understand how the different voltage increments can affect your devices.
Is US 110v or 120V?
The standard in the United States is 120V and 60Hz AC electricity. The standard in Australia is 220V and 50Hz AC electricity. The standard in Canada is 120V and 60Hz AC electricity.
Are Us outlets 110 or 120?
110 volts vs. The most common electrical outlet in any home is a 110 volt. Sometimes you may hear 110 volt plugs referred to as 120 volt. Do not be confused by this; think of them as one and the same.
What does an American plug socket look like?
The US plug It has the thin prongs, unlike the circular prongs that are used by European plugs. By the way, don't panic if you see sparks when you put a US plug into the socket. It's unnerving at first, as you rarely see it on UK sockets, but it's entirely common when using a US plug socket.