Know What You Need to About Electrical Outlets in Austin, Texas

The modern home is teeming with fixtures and amenities that feature electrical outlets. From the kitchen appliances and television sets that help us to prepare our meals, to our computers and laptops, a home just isn't a home without the correct and up-to-date electrical outlets available at all times. If you're a property owner, landlord, or tenant in Austin, Texas 78617, then you must understand the local state regulations and requirements for electrical outlets and wiring.

In Austin, proper wiring for electrical outlets is subject to property code regulations that dictate how many outlets are required in each room, where and how each outlet must be installed, and the type of outlet that is allowed. In Texas, a professional master electrician is legally required to install all electrical outlets in the home, whether you're making improvements, upgrades, or adding new outlets. Not only will this ensure that the outlets meet the requirements of the local law in Austin, Texas, but it will also ensure your family's safety.

By now you might be wondering, what type of outlet should you get installed? Here are some of the most common outlets on the residential market:

GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are a vital must-have in any home. This type of outlet has an electronic receiver inside the outlet which constantly monitors the current flowing through it and provides immediate protection against any hazardous current. The receiver will shut off the electrical power if it detects an imbalance between the current going out and the current coming into the outlet. For example, if the current flowing through a worn-out power cord is lost, the GFCI outlet will turn off the power. GFCI outlets are usually installed in kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor areas where water is present.

Duplex Outlets

This is the most commonly found outlet in residential homes. Duplex outlets have two plug points and two power switches. Most modern duplex outlets also have a built-in surge protector and a grounding plug.

Tamper Resistant Outlets

Tamper-resistant outlets, as the name implies, are designed to be child-proof. These outlets are mandated by Austin's home laws and feature a set of spring-loaded shutters which close the outlet when no plug is present, preventing curious toddlers from sticking objects inside the outlet and electrocution.

USB Outlets

USB outlets are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners in Austin, Texas. These outlets are designed to provide both traditional power outlets and USB ports, ideal for charging smartphones, tablets, and other USB-compatible devices.

When it comes to choosing the right type of outlet for your home, it pays to consult with a professional master electrician. Local laws and regulations may also profoundly affect your choice of outlet, so it's a good idea to have these checked to make sure you're not breaking the law. In case you're ever in need of electrical outlet installation in the Austin area, Abacus residential and commercial plumbers are the trusted experts when it comes to keeping your home safe and up-to-date.

Electrical Outlets

Austin

Texas