If you’ve ever been shocked when trying to plug an appliance into an outlet, you know that it’s not a pleasant experience. In fact, depending on the person, environment, and severity of the shock, it can be quite dangerous or even deadly. Traditionally, two prong outlets have been used to provide electricity. While these outlets are still legal, they are not always preferred, especially with the extra safety that 3 prong outlets offer. When picking outlets for your home, three prongs are better than two. However, there are various kinds of 3 prong outlets available and in some cases GFCI protected outlets can be used when there is no ground wire. Continue reading to learn which type of electrical outlet will best suit your needs.
Standard 3 Prong Outlet
Generally speaking, a normal 3 prong outlet will work for your everyday electrical needs. They are also typically 15A, 120V outlets, which means they can handle up to 15 amps and provide 120 volts of electricity. These outlets are ideal for small to medium powered devices like lights or phone and laptop chargers. 20A, 120V are another common type of electrical outlet and can support more powerful appliances than outlets with 15A. These 3 prong outlets are identifiable by their horizontal slot coming out of one of the vertical slots. This extra slot means the outlet can accept both 15A and 20A plugs. A versatile option, this type of outlet can handle small to larger appliances like vacuum cleaners and microwave ovens.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Outlet
If you’ve noticed a 3-prong outlet with a “test” and “reset” button, then you have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. This type of electrical outlet is designed to protect you from electrical shock and is almost always installed in areas where water is present like bathrooms and kitchens. Electric shock is a hazard that is especially dangerous near water, which is why GFCI outlets monitor the flow of electricity and look for power imbalances. If the electric flow is imbalanced by more than 5 milliamps, then there’s likely a water danger that will increase the chances of electric shock and electrocution. To stop this, the GFCI outlet cuts off power until you push the reset button. It’s important that you only do so when you’re certain there is no water present and it’s safe to use the 3-prong outlet again.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter Outlet
Just like how a GFCI outlet prevents electrical shocks, the arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) 3 prong outlet works to eliminate arcing on at a compromised connection. This type of outlet monitors the current and voltage in your system. If there’s loose, broken, or uninsulated wires, electricity can jump between these compromised areas and cause an arc or spark. The arcing can make the outlet overheat and start an electrical fire if not stopped. But an AFCI outlet detects these kinds of issues and shuts off power to prevent the arcing from causing extensive damage. This type of 3 prong outlet is usually installed in common areas like living rooms or places where you might not always be awake like bedrooms. Instead of a potential fire breaking out in the middle of a party waking up to a burning bedroom the AFCI outlet stops the danger before it strikes and alerts you to an electrical issue that needs immediate attention. The National Electrical Code (NEC) has strict guidelines for how these outlets and their wires should be installed. As a result, a licensed electrician must be consulted before installing an AFCI outlet.
Tamper-resistant Outlet
3 prong outlets were built to be a safe alternative to two prong receptacles, but electricity is still dangerous, especially to children. Outlets are the perfect height for small fingers to reach, and an electrical shock can be extremely dangerous for a young child. That’s why most of the 3 prong outlets today are tamper resistant. This type of outlet has a barrier built inside which blocks anything from going in except the proper two-pronged or grounded plug. If you try to plug something into your outlet and feel some resistance, it may be that you have a tamper-resistant receptacle making your home even safer.
Recessed Outlet
While necessary to meet our electrical needs, sometimes 3 prong outlets can get in the way or make it difficult to install appliances that need to rest smoothly against the wall. Luckily there is a new type of electrical outlet that solves this problem. A recessed outlet is installed inside a small hole cut in your wall or floor. This 3-prong outlet is ideal if you’re looking to save space around your appliances and wiring components. Just make sure to call an experienced electrician if you want to install a recessed outlet to ensure everything is wired and built correctly.
Ready to Upgrade Your Outlet Safety Measures?
The 3 prong outlet provides a much safer option for electric systems than its two-pronged predecessor. This type of electrical outlet comes in even more designs meant to protect your home from shocks and fires, all the while ensuring every appliance is properly powered. If you’re looking to upgrade your electric system or just want to ensure everything is safe for your family, call to schedule a consultation with Landis Electric, LLC. Our team of experienced electricians is here to help you optimize your electrical system so everything always runs smoothly.