3 Different Types of Electrical Outlets and Their Advantages
Electricity has been available as a utility for over a century, but the technology that helps people interact with it constantly evolves. In the early days, electricity was so dangerous that many people paid their staff to turn the lights off and on for fear of fatal shocks. Nowadays, electricity is so ubiquitous that people rarely give it a second thought.
Some of the latest developments in electrical safety have to do with one of the most commonly used components: electrical outlets. New outlets are making electricity safer and more reliable than ever. Here are three options for the latest electrical outlets that homeowners can consider to protect their homes and businesses.
AFCI Outlets
AFCI outlets are the latest development in electrical protection. AFCI stands for “Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters.” The technology is available in new outlets but is also required for breakers that serve many home or business circuits.
Why are AFCI outlets important? Electrical arcs are one of the biggest causes of electrical fires nationwide. They occur when a circuit produces a lot of heat and resistance. This situation commonly happens when the wiring is slightly damaged, and heat builds up until it ignites. This incident often occurs beneath the insulation, so there is no warning.
AFCI outlets and breakers are designed to sense arcs in wiring and appliances. When they sense an arc has occurred, they respond by cutting power. This prevents thermal runaway and ensures that arcs don’t cause fires.
GFCI Outlets
Electrical shock has been a major concern since the early days of electricity. One factor that makes electrical shocks more likely is the presence of water. When electricity and water meet, there are almost always serious consequences, so protecting people from possible electrical shocks in the presence of water is important.
GFCI outlets are designed to spot changes in the path of electricity. When electricity chooses a new path of least resistance, other than the one flowing through the outlet, the GFCI will shut off power to prevent electrocution. For this reason, GFCI stands for “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter.” Electrical codes require that all outdoor outlets and outlets within six feet of a water source be protected by GFCI technology. Ensuring these are installed around the home and business can ensure the safety of those using these spaces.
Childproof Outlets
If there is anyone aware of the hazards of the ubiquity of electricity, it is the parents of young children. Most people take electrical safety for granted until there are curious little ones inspecting outlets. Parents don’t have to rely on frustrating plug protectors to keep kids safe. Instead, childproof outlets make the best option.
Childproof outlets prevent objects from being inserted into outlets with concealed, spring-loaded tabs. The tabs will only retract once pressure is applied to both simultaneously. If an object is inserted into only one side, the tabs will stop it. In addition to being safe and convenient, they also look and operate like normal outlets.
About Atlas Home Service
Atlas Home Service has a team of technicians ready to handle various concerns for home and business owners. Their teams of licensed electricians can quickly handle an outlet upgrade project to keep every space safe. Call today for reliable and quick electrical service in Alexandria, LA.
