What Is the Voltage of Household Electricity?

There is nothing as frustrating as buying a home appliance only to find that the plug does not match the socket. In fact, matching power outlets & plugs is a huge concern for many homeowners. However, understanding your electrical needs and the types of home plugs in your home can help you avoid such issues. Take a look at the different options available to help you match your plugs with power outlets.

110 volts vs. 220 volts

There are two types of power sources you can expect to find in a home. The main difference is the voltage or the quantity of the potential energy that the socket can provide with the device or appliance plugged into it. In most homes, the common electrical outlet is 110 volts. You might also hear some people referring to 110 volt plugs as 120 volts. Do not let this confuse you. Consider them the same thing. You can find some variations of this outlet as explained below.

• 110 Volt 15 Amp

This is the most basic outlet, and it is ideal for most of your electronic needs, such as microwaves, TVs, and small ACs.

• 110 Volt 20 Amp

The obvious indicator that one needs this type of outlet is a horizontal pin. You can still plug in a smaller gadget that does not require 20 amps because it still provides two vertical inputs. However, if your device requires 20 amps to work, the small horizontal pin will not allow you to plug it into a 15 Amp socket. This type of socket is ideal for small washing machines and dryers.

Larger appliances like ranges have increased electrical demand. In such cases, the power supply can be increased by combining two circuits to get a 220 volt outlet. This will supply more power.

Similar to the 110 volt, the 220 volt outlet also has different variations. In this case, the popular variations are 15 Amp, 20 Amp, and 30 Amp.

• 220 Volt 15 Amp

When you have powerful appliances, it means that the demand on your electrical system is higher. In such cases, you will use 220 volt plugs. These plugs are bigger than the usual 110 volts meaning it can be hard to confuse the two. Appliances like dryers, washers, and commercial-sized air conditioners use this type of plug.

• 220 Volt 20 Amp

If your appliances or devices require a sizeable 20 Amp circuit, your residential electrician will inform you that you need this type of socket in your house. One can plug those small 15 Amp appliances and devices into this socket, but not the other way round.

• 220 Volt 30 Amp

This is a huge plug with a circuit meant for appliances that require the highest electricity, such as a split unit AC and a range. This socket resembles the 220 volt 15 Amp but is larger.

All these types of outlets have a distinct appearance that matches the plug on your electronics and appliances. The reason for the design is to ensure that one only uses an outlet compatible with the right devices and appliances.

For all your electrical needs, including ensuring you have sockets compatible with your plugs, reach out to Eavenson Electric Co. Our team is made up of courteous, experienced, and professional employees. We can safely and quickly rectify your electrical needs, ensuring you are not inconvenienced.

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