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HomElectrical.com > Electrical Supply
> Electrical Outlet & Receptacle

Electrical Outlet & Receptacle

Find the perfect electrical outlet & receptacle for your next project at HomElectrical! We offer a variety of electrical receptacles ranging from tamper resistant (TR) to weather resistant (WR), or a combination of both if you need it. Whether you’re looking to power small appliances, such as power tools, or larger appliances, such as AC units or dryers, you are sure to find the right outlet for you. 
Washer/Dryer Outlet Washer/Dryer Outlet
USB Outlet USB Outlet
Straight Blade Plugs Straight Blade Plugs
Smart Outlet Smart Outlet
Single Outlet Single Outlet
Light Switch/Electrical Outlet Combo Light Switch/Electrical Outlet Combo
GFCI Outlet & Receptacle GFCI Outlet & Receptacle
Electrical Connectors Electrical Connectors
Duplex Outlet Duplex Outlet
>Washer/Dryer Outlet
>USB Outlet
>Straight Blade Plugs
>Smart Outlet
>Single Outlet
>Light Switch/Electrical Outlet Combo
>GFCI Outlet & Receptacle
>Electrical Connectors
>Duplex Outlet

Electrical Outlet & Receptacle Guides & Advice

Which Electrical Outlet Should I Use?

Choosing between a GFCI outlet or another electrical outlet can be difficult; especially with the smart outlet coming out! Find the best electrical outlet for your home and discover which rooms require a GFCI outlet in your home!

General Protecht GFCI Outlet DG15TR-II-B GFCI Outlet & Receptacle
GP 15 Amp Tamper Resistant GFCI w/ LED, Ivory ()
GP-DG15TRIIB

As Low As $8.99

PowerSafe GFCI15-S W GFCI Outlet & Receptacle
PowerSafe 15 Amp GFCI with Auto-Monitoring, White ()
PSH-GFCI15SW

$9.95

Are Temper-resistant Receptacles (outlets) Required in Schools?

According to the 2017 National Electrical Code, all 15-amp and 20-amp, 125V and 250V CI receptacles must be classified as a tamper-resistant GFCI. Tamper-resistant receptacles contain an internal, spring-loaded shutter that does not allow the entry of foreign objects. The shutter will not permit an electrical connection unless the pressure on both sides of the internal shutter is even.

They are required in the following locations:

  • Dwelling units (house or apartment)
  • Guest rooms
  • Hotel suites
  • Childcare facilites
  • Preschools
  • Elementary education facilities
  • Business offices
  • Corridors
  • Waiting rooms
  • Medical facilities (including outpatient)
  • College dormitories

How Many Outlets Can Be Used on a Circuit Breaker?

The NEC specifies that a circuit breaker shouldn’t handle more than 80% of its load rating (max amperage).

Voltage Aperage Total Outlets Allowed
120V 15-amp 10
120V 20-amp 13
240V 15-amp 20
240V 20-amp 16

How Do I Know If It Is Time to Replace My Electrical Outlets?

There are a few key ways to know that it's time to your electrical outlet.

Continuous Tripping
If you see that your receptacleis being tripped without any larger-than-normal appliances or devices being plugged into it, this is a sign it's time for a replacement. Unjustified tripping could signify a few different problems including issues like water damage to the socket or worn insulation. Until you take the unit out and inspect it, it can be hard to know. Read our guide on how to find out exactly why your GFCI unit keeps tripping.

Older Structure
If you live in a house, condo, or apartment that is more than 15 years old, having the electrical outlets replaced is a good idea. Though many outlets can have a lifespan of between 15 and 25 years, some can fail as early as 5 years after they're installed. As appropriate based on your living arrangement, have the electrical outlet inspected for any early signs of problems, such as cracks, discoloration, or thinning insulation.

Slipping Plugs
If your outlet has a hard time gripping the prongs of whatever you plug into it, it's likely time to get a new outlet. Sometimes there are worn or small, two-prong plugs that will go into an outlet, but they just won't be very secure (shifting whenever the cord is moved, for example). But if you have tried to plug multiple kinds of appliance or devices into an outlet and everything just sits in the outlet or falls out—there's no secure snap into the receptacle—this likely means you have worn contacts. While contact naturally wear down over time, it's important to catch this issue quickly. Plugs that aren't secured into your outlet can cause arcing.Electricity is listed by the National Fire Protection Association as one of the top causes of house fires. Protect yourself, your family, and your property by checking for loose contacts and getting your outlets replaced as needed.

What is the Difference Between an Outlet and a Receptacle?

There is no difference at all. The words “outlet” and “receptacle” are interchangeable terms used in the industry. They both refer to the units where you plug in your electronic devices and appliances.  

What is Tamper Resistant?

Tamper-resistant receptacles contain an internal, spring-loaded shutter that doesn't allow foreign objects to be placed inside. The shutter makes sure that no circuit connection can be made unless the pressure on both sides of the internal shutter is even. This helps keep kids and pets safe from accidental electrocution. This feature makes a tamper-resistant receptacle perfect for schools, daycare centers, and indoor play areas. It has the same level of effectiveness (if not higher) than external outlet covers, but is more beneficial because it eliminates a choking hazard.

What is a Self-Grounded Outlet?

A self-grounding electrical outlet features copper clips and a mounting screw. This mounting screw is designed to pick up the grounding from the box instead of having to ground it with a grounding wire.

What is a Decora vs. Standard Control Style?

Decora is another name for what's commonly known as a "rocker" switch. The traditional switch type (A.K.A. "toggle switch") is smaller and protrudes out from the wall more abruptly. Like a toggle switch, the rocker switch can be set to up/on and down/off positions. Rocker switches work the same way, but they have a wider, flatter mechanism that lays almost flush against the wall. For some stylistic reasons, this may be the preferred switch type for certain projects.

What is a Single, Duplex, or Combo Outlet Type?

Single Outlet
This outlet only has a single receptacle for electrical devices. Appropriate for rooms where there is rarely any need to plug something in.

Duplex Outlet
This outlet has two receptacles, allowing two devices to be plugged in at a time. These kinds of receptacles have become more common with the popularity of portable electronic devices such as lightweight laptops and smartphones.

Combo Outlet
This outlet is built just like a duplex outlet, except that there is only one place to plug something in. The other segment of the receptacle is used for a switch that can be connected to a light bulb or other fixture.

What is an Electrical Outlet?

Electrical outlets are the receptacles for the plug of an electrical appliance. More specifically, it is an opening or series of openings connected to a wired power source that provides electricity to electronic devices.
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