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The standard voltage for United States power outlets isn’t shared around the world, and neither is the shape of the power connector. This is why you need travel adapters when spending time abroad. Where the United States typically uses 110/120V outlets, outlets in Europe typically use 220/240V. Power outlets can vary in other ways around the world, too. Not everyone uses the 60Hz frequency, for example, and not everyone even uses AC power in outlets. Always do your research when traveling to see what you need.

Yes, electricians must be licensed, certified, and in most cases, insured. Licensing requirements vary by state and local municipality, but most U.S. municipalities require electricians to hold an electrical contractor’s license. It's always a good practice to confirm requirements with your local municipality. Even if licensing is not required in your area, hiring a licensed and experienced electrician often leads to a better end result.

A license is a legal requirement to operate a business and is necessary for pulling project permits. Certifications, on the other hand, are typically voluntary and demonstrate a certain level of expertise. In some cases, a certified electrician may send an apprentice or journeyman to perform the work, but they must operate under a primary electrician who holds the proper license.

Before hiring, you should verify the electrician's license, insurance coverage, and any third-party certifications. You can use Angi’s contractor licensing search to confirm a pro's license status. Additionally, businesses with the “Angi Approved” badge on our platform meet strict criteria, including having the required state and local licenses, passing a background check, and maintaining a high average rating.

Watts and volts represent distinct aspects of a light bulb’s functionality. Volts measure the electrical force that drives the current through the bulb, determining its compatibility with the power source. Watts, on the other hand, quantify the bulb’s power consumption and indicate its brightness level. Higher watts generally mean a brighter bulb.

The wrong-sized wire can lead to several safety hazards, including structural fires, surges, power outages from tripped breakers, and electrocution. It’s important to follow the American Wire Gauge system and the National Electrical Code guidelines to safely wire a home. Electrical wiring is not safe for homeowners to handle and is best left to a licensed electrician.