Get matched with top electricians in Lake Park, MN

The most common type of electrical outlet is a 3-prong outlet, which has two flat blades (one is wider than the other) and a round grounding pin. Older homes typically have 2-prong outlets that aren’t as safe as more modern options and are generally not up to current electrical codes.  Other outlets you can find in your home include 20A, 125 volt varieties for larger appliances like refrigerators or washing machines. 

There are also GFCI outlets, which protect against electrical shock in wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, and arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) outlets, which protect against electrical fires caused by arcing.

Knowing if and when your circuit breaker is failing or faulty can prevent costly damage. If you notice any of the following signs, call a local electrician to help. 

• The breaker frequently trips

• The breaker doesn't stay in the 'on' position or reset properly

• You hear buzzing or humming noises coming from the breaker

• There's discoloration around the breaker switch

• There's a burning smell or visible signs of damage on the breaker

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

String lights require electricity, but not an excessive amount, especially when compared to other lighting fixtures. LED rope lights, for instance, consume around one watt per foot. Running six or seven light strings simultaneously should only cost you around $10 to $15 each month. You can save even more money by remembering to turn off your lights during daylight hours.