On this edition of Vexx Ed, lets talk receptacles!
Your home will have two main types of receptacles, tamper resist and GFCI. If you are in an older home with no recent upgrades you wont have these yet, however, code now states that you must have tamper resistant receptacles with any renovations and new construction.
Lets break it down:
GFCI's (ground fault circuit interrupter) monitor the electrical current flow in a device. If the flow is irregular, the GFCI will trip to prevent injury. By code, these are required in "wet areas" where a water source is close by, like bathrooms, laundry rooms, beside kitchen sinks, pools/spas....just to name a few.
Tamper resistant receptacles (pictured below) have a shutter mechanism inside which blocks access to the socket unless two or three prongs have been inserted at the same time. These receptacles not only prevent children from sticking toys or other objects into the socket, they also prevent injury to adults who may not notice a faulty/damaged plug blade on their devices.
Home safety is important and can often be overlooked. These receptacles are one way of adding another level of safety to your home. If you are in need of any electrical upgrades, or unsure if your home is up to code give us a call and we would be happy to take a look and give you a free estimate.
Please remember to have a licensed professional do electrical work in your home, for your safety and peace of mind.
Thanks for taking time to read this edition of Vexx Ed! We hope you join us again next month for the illuminating facts on LED lights. We like saving you money!!!!
