Upgrade Your Outlets to Tamper Resistant for a Safer Home

Difference Between Tamper Resistant Outlets

As a homeowner in the zip code 02909 Providence, Rhode Island, it is essential to prioritize the safety of your residence. A crucial aspect of ensuring a safe home is by having the right outlets installed. With the increasing advancements in technology, traditional outlets are no longer sufficient in providing the necessary protection. This is where tamper resistant outlets come in.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, specializes in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. With over seventeen years of experience serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island, B&K Electric understands the importance of having tamper resistant outlets in modern homes. In this article, we will explore the difference between traditional outlets and tamper resistant outlets, and why it is crucial to upgrade to the latter for your home’s safety.

Traditional Outlets

Traditional outlets, also known as standard outlets, are the most commonly found type in homes. They have been in use for many years and are the standard type of outlets installed in most houses. These outlets have two vertical slots, one for the hot wire and the other for the neutral wire, and a small round hole for the grounding wire.

One of the main concerns with traditional outlets is their lack of protection against potential electrical hazards. These outlets do not have any safety features, making them prone to accidents, especially in homes with children. Children are naturally curious, and the small holes in traditional outlets can easily entice them to stick small objects, such as keys or coins, into the outlet, resulting in electrocution. Additionally, standard outlets do not provide protection against electrical fires caused by devices short circuiting.

Tamper Resistant Outlets

In response to the safety concerns associated with traditional outlets, tamper resistant (TR) outlets were introduced. These outlets have the same basic design as traditional outlets, but with the addition of internal shutters or protection mechanisms. These shutters open only when equal pressure is applied to both slots, making it difficult for small objects to be inserted into the outlet.

The benefits of tamper resistant outlets go beyond child safety. They also provide protection against fire hazards as they can prevent electrical arcing. Electrical arcing occurs when two wires make contact with each other, causing a spark. This spark can ignite nearby flammable materials, leading to an electrical fire. With the shutters in tamper resistant outlets, this potential risk is mitigated.

Difference Between Tamper Resistant Outlets

and Traditional Outlets

The primary difference between tamper resistant outlets and traditional outlets lies in their internal structure and safety features. While traditional outlets have only two slots and a hole, tamper resistant outlets have shutters or internal mechanisms to safeguard against potential hazards. In most cases, tamper resistant outlets are slightly more expensive than traditional outlets, but the added safety features are a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Another difference between traditional and tamper resistant outlets is their code compliance. In 2008, the National Electrical Code (NEC) made it a requirement to install tamper resistant outlets in all new and renovated homes with the aim of improving residential safety. Since then, many states have adopted this requirement as a building code, including Rhode Island. In other words, if your home was built before 2008, chances are it does not have tamper resistant outlets, making it even more crucial to upgrade.

In addition to the safety features, tamper resistant outlets are also more durable compared to traditional outlets. The internal shutters ensure the outlet lasts longer as they prevent wear and tear. It is also worth mentioning that tamper resistant outlets are built to be installed with tamper resistant wall plates, which work hand in hand to safeguard against potential hazards.

To conclude

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to ensure your residence is safe for your family and visitors. Upgrading your outlets to tamper resistant outlets is a simple yet highly effective way to ensure your home is protected against electrical hazards. The added safety features, durability, and code compliance make tamper resistant outlets a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

Topics:

Tamper resistant outlets,

electrical safety,

residential safety