Electrical Receptacles

Conventional duplex receptacles have two places to plug-in devices. As shown in the illustration, newer receptacles have a half-round hole that receives the grounding plug on an electrical cord. A contact leads from this hole to a green grounding screw that should be connected to the house ground (metal conduit or a green wire) to provide protection against shock when an appliance is plugged in. It's always best to check with a licensed and qualified electrician, like an Excellent Electrician, if you're not sure about your type of electrical system.

Some receptacles in older homes don't have grounding plugs-they have only the paired slots. If your home's receptacles are like these, you've probably discovered grounding adapters, those little plugs that convert the end of a three-pronged plug to two prongs.

Outdoor receptacles are mounted with special covers that seal the weather out (standard types are not safe for outdoor use).

A ground-fault circuit interrupter, also called a GFI or GFCI, shuts off a circuit instantly if it senses a hazardous short.

Electrical Nightmares

Choosing an Electrical Professional

What makes an "Excellent Electrical Professional Different"

Know Your Home’s Electrical System

	How does your home’s electrical system work?
	How power comes into your home
	Electrical Receptacles

How Safe is Your Home From an Electrical Emergency?

Does Your Home Need a Power Safety Audit?

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