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They can vary—a lot. For example, while the EU continues to move toward broader standardization, many different types of outlets still exist from country to country. Some local standards cared about polarization, and some didn’t. It’s similar to other countries around the world.

Generally, you’re less likely to find polarized outlets outside North America. However, alternative plugs and outlets often incorporate precautions so that accidentally touching live prongs on a plug is hard or impossible. You may also find interesting regulations overseas that limit the use of outlets in bathrooms or near sinks to decrease the chance of shock.

A weatherhead, the meter base, the breaker box, and a meter panel are all vital components of a working meter riser. If one part of the system is faulty, it could damage other parts, so consider having an electrician inspect the entire unit. The cost to replace the meter panel alone may cost $500 to $1,000, so consider this in your budget for replacing the meter riser.

Black is the standard color for hot wires, which transfer electricity to your outlets and switches. Red wires are also hot wires. White (and sometimes gray) wires are considered neutral, delivering power back to the panel. Finally, green wires, which are sometimes bare copper, are ground wires, used to ground an electrical circuit and prevent electrocution.

A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a whole-home generator instead.