Imagine plugging in your favorite device only to find it won’t charge or, even worse, sparks fly. At Lex Electric, we know that outdated electrical outlets can lead to more than just inconvenience; they can pose serious safety risks. Upgrading your electrical outlets not only enhances safety but also boosts the efficiency of your home’s electrical system. Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem; contact our team at Lex today by calling (972) 217-8955 or reach out online for professional electrical outlet upgrades in Carrollton, TX and the surrounding areas.
Electrical Outlet Types
When upgrading your electrical outlets, the first place to start is by getting a better understanding of the different electrical outlet options out there. From standard outlets to GFCIs to even more specialized options, each type serves a unique purpose and offers distinct benefits.
Below, our Carrollton electricians explore the various types of outlets so you can determine which ones best meet your needs and how we can help you choose and install the perfect outlets for your space.
GFCI Outlets
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to prevent electrical shock by quickly cutting off power if a ground fault is detected, such as when moisture enters the outlet or a grounding wire is compromised. Ground fault circuit interrupters are especially important in areas prone to wet conditions, like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. There is also a convenient test and reset button for when your GFCI outlet is not working properly, making it easy to troubleshoot problems on your own.
Protect your home from electrical hazards by scheduling your Carrollton GFCI installation with Lex Electric today!
AFCI Outlets
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) outlets are essential for detecting abnormal electrical arcs, a common cause of electrical fires, by monitoring the electrical current for irregularities. These outlets immediately shut down the power to prevent a potential electrical fire when such arcs are detected. AFCI outlets are particularly beneficial in older homes, where wiring may be aged or damaged.
USB Outlets
USB outlets are a modern convenience streamlining how we power our devices, blending traditional sockets with built-in USB ports. These innovative electrical outlets eliminate the need for bulky chargers and adapters, reducing clutter and freeing up space for other uses.
Ideal for homes and offices alike, USB outlets provide a convenient charging solution for mobile devices, tablets, and other USB-powered devices. By installing USB outlets in strategic locations, Lex Air can help you create a more organized and efficient charging station in any room.
Smart Outlets
Smart outlets are a significant advancement in home automation, allowing you to easily control your home’s electrical system. These electrical outlet upgrades can be connected to various home automation systems, enabling you to turn appliances on and off remotely using smartphone apps. This feature not only offers convenience but also enhances home security and energy efficiency.
Tamper-Resistant Outlets
Tamper-resistant receptacles are designed to improve safety in homes, especially those with small children. These outlets come equipped with built-in spring-loaded shutters that block foreign objects from being inserted into the contacts, a common cause of an electrical shock or short circuit.
The shutters in the tamper-resistant receptacles only open when equal pressure is applied simultaneously, such as when plugging in a standard electrical plug, effectively preventing accidental access to electrical currents. This feature makes tamper-resistant outlets an essential upgrade for any family home.
Recessed Outlets
Recessed outlets are an innovative solution for managing space in any home or office. These electrical outlets are set deeper into the wall than standard outlets, allowing furniture to sit flush against the wall without bending cords or creating gaps. Recessed outlets are particularly useful in areas where extra space is needed, such as behind wall-mounted flatscreen televisions and entertainment centers or in small, high-traffic rooms.
Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Electrical Outlets
- Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breakers: Electrical outlets that trip frequently often indicate that your home’s outlets are outdated and struggling to handle modern electrical loads. Old outlets are not designed for the high power demands of current electronics and appliances, leading to overloaded electrical circuits.
- Outlets Are Warm to the Touch: If you notice that your home’s outlets are warm to the touch, it can indicate faulty wiring or an overloaded electrical system. These conditions can lead to risks such as electrical fires.
- Two-Prong Outlets: Two-prong outlets, often found in older homes, lack the grounding feature of modern three-prong outlets, making them unsafe for many modern appliances. The absence of the grounding wire means two-prong outlets can’t protect against power surges and electrical faults. Upgrading to three-prong outlets provides necessary grounding and ensures compatibility with newer devices.
- Cracked or Discolored Outlets: Cracked or discolored electrical outlets are not just unsightly; they can expose wiring, leading to arcing and increased resistance, which can generate enough heat to start an electrical fire. These physical changes might also suggest aging or deteriorating internal components that could fail and cause a short circuit.
- Lack of Outlets: Relying heavily on power strips and extension cords can lead to overloaded electrical circuits, increasing the risk of electrical fires and tripped breakers. To address these issues, you may want to install additional outlets.
How Many Outlets Can You Add to an Existing Outlet?
The number of electrical outlets you can add to an existing outlet largely depends on your home’s electrical system capacity and power consumption. Typically, the safe addition is determined by the circuit’s amp rating and what’s already drawing power on that circuit.
It’s important to consider electrical outlet upgrades to accommodate additional outlets safely. A professional electric inspection from our team at Lex can determine the most effective and secure outlet upgrade, ensuring your system can handle the increased load without compromising safety or efficiency.
How To Update Electric Outlets
Updating electric outlets is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance the functionality of your home’s electrical system. To start, determine the type of outlets you need, whether they are two-prong to three-prong outlet upgrades, a GFCI outlet for the bathroom, or modern USB outlets.
Once you’ve selected the appropriate outlet types, turn off the power to the area where you will be working. Then, remove the old outlet and carefully connect the wires to the new one, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
If your current electrical outlets are newer and working fine, you might consider installing LED outlets. These outlets don’t require wiring work and include built-in, motion-sensor LED night lights. LED outlets are a simple upgrade without the complicated electrical work.
However, if you need major electrical outlet upgrades that require extensive home rewiring, it’s important to hire a professional to ensure that your outlet upgrades are done safely and in compliance with local electrical codes.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
For homeowners with electrical work experience, DIY electrical outlet upgrades can help save some money on installation, but a professional outlet installation ensures that the outlet upgrades are completed correctly and in adherence to electrical codes and safety standards.
- Risks of DIY Electrical Work: Any type of DIY electrical work poses significant risks, such as safety hazards and code violations, especially without the proper knowledge and tools. Mistakes can lead to serious injuries or electrical fires, and non-compliance with local codes might result in fines or required corrections.
- Benefits of Professional Installation: Professional outlet upgrades offer many benefits, including ensuring compliance with local electrical codes and guaranteeing quality workmanship and safety. Lex Electric ensures that your electrical outlet upgrades are done correctly and securely, minimizing the risk of future issues.
How Lex Electric Can Help With Your Carrollton Electrical Outlet Upgrades
Upgrading your electrical outlets is not just about keeping up with modern technology; it’s about ensuring your home is safe and capable of meeting your family’s needs. Whether it’s replacing old outlets, adding new ones, or installing advanced options like GFCI, USB, or smart outlets, Lex Electric has the knowledge and skills to handle it all.
Contact our experienced Carrollton electricians at (972) 217-8955 or contact us online to schedule an outlet upgrade consultation and let us help you make your home safer and more efficient.
