Tag: outlets

What Outlets Offer the Best Safety Features? 

While all electrical outlets share the same goal, some offer more safety features than others. But which one works best for homeowners? This blog lets homeowners learn about which electrical outlets meet their homes’ needs. They should also consult a trained electrician, who can answer their questions and explain more. Some outlets with safety features that homeowners should consider installing include: 

AFCI Outlets (Also Known as “Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters”) 

AFCIs have two goals: 

• Power electronics: Whether someone is looking to plug in a lamp or charge their laptop or computer, AFCI outlets are the way to go. However, one should consult an electrician if they want to power a large appliance, like a refrigerator. 
• Reduce the likelihood of electrical fires: Electrical fires can start in seconds, usually when the outlet overheats. AFCIs prevent the outlet from getting hot enough to cause these fires. They also prevent residents from getting shocked when they plug something in. 

Without getting into too much detail, AFCIs can recognize when the outlet is overloaded. When the outlet reaches a certain heat threshold, the outlet “interrupts” the flow of power, reducing the likelihood of fires, injuries, and property damage. 

GFCI Outlets (Also Known as “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters”) 

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shares these facts about GFCIs: 

• GFCIs prevent nasty electrical shocks. 
• They constantly monitor the currents running through a system––and stop the flow once the current reaches a dangerous threshold. 
• GFCIs reduce the likelihood of property damage and electrical fires. 
• GFCIs rely on sensors to measure electrical currents. 

Here’s a basic overview of how a GFCI works: 

• A bare wire touches its electrical case, sending electricity flowing through the case. 
• A homeowner touches the electrical case. 
• Before the electricity can “jump” from the case to the homeowner, the GFCI shuts the power off. 

GFCIs are some of the most popular outlets in today’s market. In fact, many counties note that before a new home can be built, it must have GFCI outlets. 

Childproof Outlets 

About 20 percent of accidental childhood injuries result from electrocutions. While many of these injuries are minor, severe shocks can result in brain damage, paralysis, and even death. This makes it crucial for parents to install childproof outlets in their homes. However, this goes beyond putting a plastic cover over an outlet and calling it a day. 

Childproof outlets prevent these potentially life-threatening electrocutions. Many of these outlets have springs underneath them. So, when a child inserts a foreign object into the hole, the springs resist this. One would need a fair amount of force to get a bobby pin, fork, or paper clip into the outlet. Some childproof outlets come with sliding covers that obscure the holes. Others pair with smartphones, allowing parents to see when their child is attempting to put something in the outlet. 

About Mr. Air AC & Electrical 

Mr. Air AC & Electrical has over three decades of experience serving the residents of Pompano Beach, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day services, and an on-time guarantee. Call them today for electrical outlet repair and replacement in Pompano Beach, FL. 

• 
  +
• 
  +
• 
  +