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Electric Outlet Guide For Salem County, New Jersey Homeowners.
There are many types of outlets in an average home. This article will help homeowners in Salem County understand what outlets they have in the home. Have you ever wondered why the outlets located near your kitchen sink are different from those in your bedroom? It’s not because they were installed at different times. Each type of outlet serves a specific purpose. Some outlets are more up-to-date and conform to electrical code.
Common Electric Outlets in a Home
- 2 Prong Outlets
- 3-Prong Outlets
- GFCI Outlets
- Combinations Switch/Outlet
- 20 Amp, 120 Volt Outlets
- 20 Amp, 250 Volt Outlets
- Tamper Resistant Outlets
- Recessed Outlets
- USB Outlets
2-Prong Electrical Outlets
Did you ever pull off the third or ground prong of a plug to plug it in the outlet? Nowadays, 2-prong plugs are rare in electronics and appliances. These outlets typically have a 15 amp rating and 125 volts. These outlets can only be used with unground circuits. Due to safety and coding requirements, modern homes do not use 2-prong outlets. These outlets can be found in older homes, however.
3-Prong Outlets
These outlets are the most widespread in modern homes. The 3-prong outlet, which is similar to 2-prong outlets, can also be used at 15 amps and 125 volts. 3-prong outlets are safer than 2-prong outlets. The extra grounding slot provides additional safety. Grounding prevents electrical shock from loose wires.
GFCI Outlets
These outlets trip or pop when there is an electrical problem. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), outlets are required for any area near water. This applies to bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas as well as any other area that is near water. The outlet will trip if there is a current spike or leak. The outlets can be easily identified by the two colored RESET and TEST buttons located in the middle of the outlet.
Outlet Combos
A switch/outlet combination is the best multi-functional solution if you require both the functionality of a switch or an outlet. A switch/outlet combination allows you to have an outlet and a switch in one unit without having to install additional wiring. These combos are particularly useful when plugs need to be kept away from small children and pets.
20 Amps, 125 Volt Outlets
Some appliances need more power than others. These outlets are 20 Amp, and 125-volt. These outlets are distinguished from other 3-prong outlets via the small horizontal slot at the top-left vertical slots. These outlets are commonly used with large appliances, and are identified by electrical code.
20 Amps, 240 Volt Outlets
A 20 amp, 240-volt outlet is the best choice if you require a lot of power. Although these outlets are not as common in homes, they are essential for high-voltage appliances such as air conditioners and air condition units. Before installing these appliances, you will need to ensure that the circuit is correct. Before plugging in your appliance, make sure you check its specifications. Air conditioners may require a stronger outlet (30 Amp). Always check with an electrician if you aren’t sure.
Tamper Resistant Outlets
Since 2008, code has required the use of tamper-resistant outlets (or TRRs). These outlets are among the most secure due to their internal shutters, which prevent foreign objects from entering the outlet. Only 2-prong or grounded plugs can open the internal shutters. The use of TRRs prevents children from being shocked by the outlet.
Related Article: USB Wall Outlets, Why You Need Them
Recessed Electrical Outlets
You’re probably familiar with the frustration of having to maintain a gap between your furniture, and the wall due to a plug. Recessed outlets are designed to solve this problem. Recessed outlets are older outlets that are pushed into walls. This means that the space that a plug would normally occupy is now absorbed into the wall. This eliminates the space between furniture and walls and gives you more room.
USB Outlets
With all the devices that require charging every day, USBs are highly in demand. Sometimes it can seem that there aren’t enough outlets after all the chargers have been plugged in. You can avoid this by installing new USB outlets. USB outlets are a better alternative to traditional pronged outlets. They provide multiple USB ports that can charge your tablets and phones.
FAQs About Home Electric Outlets
How can you tell if an outlet has 15 or 20 amps?
Take a look at the outlet. It is a 15 amp outlet if the slots are parallel. It is a 20 amp outlet, which will accept plugs of 15 amp. If the slots are ‘T-shaped’ and the other slot is straight, it will be a 15 amp outlet. The outlet will only work if the slots are parallel.
Do I need 20 amp outlets for my kitchen?
At least two 20-amp outlets must be available in a kitchen. These outlets can be used to power high-voltage appliances like toasters, blenders, or microwave ovens. … Common kitchenware appliances require 20 Amps of power to run.
Can a refrigerator be connected to a 15-amp circuit.
It is a good idea to have the refrigerator connected to a dedicated circuit. Refrigerators typically run between 3 and 6 amps. However, peak use can reach up to 15 amps. Refrigerators and freezers should be connected to a dedicated 120 volt circuit of 15-20 amps.
Which appliances require a dedicated circuit?
For all of these devices, dedicated circuits are strongly recommended.
- Electric stove, oven, or range.
- Refrigerator.
- Chest freezer/stand-alone freezer.
- Dishwasher.
- Microwave.
- Garbage disposal.
- Toaster oven.
- Countertop convection microwave.
What is the cost of installing an outlet in Salem County, New Jersey
An average cost to replace or install an electrical outlet is $200. The average cost of a new outlet can be as low as $150, or as high as $350. The average cost of the project is between $150 and $225. The cost of each receptacle will vary depending on what type you choose. For small projects or urgent jobs, most electricians charge a fee.
Do I need an electrician to put in an outlet?
Although an electrical outlet might seem like a simple device, it should be installed by a licensed electrician. An electrician will ensure that they installed your outlet according to code. They can also walk you through the details of your project and pull any permits from your local building codes office.
What Type of Outlet Do You Need?
It is important to ensure that outlets comply with electric codes. If you plan to install new outlets, you will need GFCI outlets close to water sources and TRR outlets. It all comes down to your personal preference and requirements when it comes to installing USB outlets or combo outlets. Also, make sure to inspect your appliances and ensure that you have the correct voltage. Our electricians can help you determine if your outlet is compatible with new appliances. Our electricians will be able to tell you if the circuit and outlet are strong enough. Be careful when replacing or changing an electrical outlet. Electricity can be dangerous. It is best to hire a professional electrician for electrical outlet repair if you are not sure.