What Happens Inside a Wall Socket?
What Happens Inside a Wall Socket?
A wall socket, also known as an electrical outlet or receptacle, is a piece of equipment in your home which provides a power supply to your appliances.wall socket While most homeowners know that outlets are a crucial part of everyday life, few understand how they work or what happens inside a socket. This article will answer a few questions you may have about your outlets and offer some tips on how to make sure your sockets are safe and operating correctly.
There are a number of different types of sockets available on the market today.wall socket Some of these are more efficient than others, while some have added features that may make them more convenient for modern living. For instance, newer types of sockets may include built in USB ports for charging mobile devices. This is a great way to free up an existing socket and minimise the use of extension leads around your home.
In addition to having a USB port, some modern sockets also have an extra power slot.wall socket This allows you to plug in more items at once, making it ideal for households that are constantly charging gadgets. It is important to only buy sockets from reputable retailers, such as B&Q, Wickes and Screwfix, as this will ensure they have been tested to the highest standards.
Some sockets have two parallel slots, while others feature a third hole for an earth pin that projects from the socket.wall socket The earth pin helps to prevent polarity mistakes, which could otherwise cause fires or other dangerous side effects. For this reason, the three-prong socket is typically the safer option.
The ground wire is a thin, uninsulated line that runs from a small hook on the bottom of your outlet. This wire is often green in color, and it is used to discharge excess electricity, preventing it from damaging your devices or causing injuries. If your outlet doesn't have a ground wire, it is recommended that you install one.
Many older sockets have a second outlet on the back of the wall which can be used to connect another plug or appliance. This design is less safe than modern outlets, and it should be replaced with a receptacle that is designed to safely discharge excess electricity.
Sockets can experience a range of issues over time, including corrosion and heat build up. This can lead to cracking or smoke marks, which is a sign that they are not being properly protected. If you notice these problems with your sockets, it is recommended that you contact a registered electrician.
The most common type of socket in the UK is a three-pin mains socket, which is defined by British standard BS 1363. This type of socket has three round holes that are offset by 10 mm, and it features an earth pin that is centred between the apertures. This type of socket is also commonly used in France and some other European countries.