How Modern Outlets Make Charging Easier and Safer

As it turns out, upgrading to modern outlets can be transformative. In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we’ll explore the tip of the iceberg. If you’d like to consult a licensed electrician with questions, concerns, or plans, feel free to call or message Mr. Electric today.

The Charging Struggle Is Real

It’s a familiar scenario: you're getting ready for bed, and you need to charge your phone, your smartwatch, tablet, or all of the above. You start hunting for charging cables, and asking around for adapters, or taking turns. Then comes deciding which devices get the limited outlet space and which ones have to wait.

Sound familiar? It's a minor annoyance that we've all intrinsically accepted as normal… but it doesn't have to be this way.

Modern USB outlets eliminate this entire debacle. These outlets come with built-in USB ports so that you can charge your devices directly – without hunting for adapters. Yes! No more bulky chargers hogging outlet space, and no more drawer full of mismatched adapters.

Smart Outlets That Actually Make Life Easier

USB ports are just the beginning. Smart outlets take convenience to an entirely new level. These outlets connect to your home's WiFi network and can be controlled from your smartphone – where ever you are.

Forgot to turn off your lights before leaving for vacation? No problem; shut it off from your phone. Want your coffee maker to start brewing the moment you get up from bed? Just a tap away. You can even schedule your smart outlets to turn on and off at set times.

Smart outlets also let you monitor how much energy devices are consuming. Identify energy hogs or turn off outlets to tackle that phantom energy waste. Some models even integrate with voice assistants like Google Home.

The Safety Features You Can't See (But Desperately Need)

Now let's talk about the really important stuff: safety. Modern outlets include protection features that older outlets simply do NOT have. We’re not talking about USB chargers anymore; these safety features can literally save lives and prevent house fires.

GFCI outlets, for example, protect against electrical shock in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor spaces. These outlets detect ground faults and shut off power in milliseconds to prevent shocks and electrocutions. AFCI outlets work similarly to reduce the risk of residential electrical fires.

If you’ve got kids or pets in the house, then consider a tamper-resistant electrical outlet replacement. These outlets have internal shutters that prevent children from inserting objects like keys, paperclips, or utensils into the slots.

These safety features especially important in outdoor outlets, yet these outside outlets are among the most overlooked. Your outdoor outlets should be weather-resistant and safe. Check these or have them inspected regularly.

When To Call an Electrician

Some outlets are just a discolored eye-sore while others demand attention right away. While yellowing is typically just a sign of age, scorch marks on outlets is a red flag. It’s a good idea to call an electrician in Farmington, UT if you notice:

• Sparking when you plug something in or out
• Buzzing noises coming from the outlet
• Smell of burning plastic near the outlet
• Loose outlets

Many times, the electrician can make adjustments or minor repairs to have you back on schedule same day! The uniformed pros at Mr. Electric come with the equipment and parts to handle much electrical repair service the first time around.