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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.

In general, 200 amps is enough for a house with a square footage of up to 1,800, or the average three-bedroom home. A 200-amp service allows your home to warm and cool itself while running multiple appliances at once. It's a good option for homes that have been extended, or after adding new appliances. 200-amp service is the current standard for homes, so in most cases, it will work for you.

Most standard residential water heaters, which are typically around 40 gallons and use 240 volts and between 3,500 and 5,500 watts, require a 30-amp, two-pole circuit breaker. For smaller, point-of-use water heaters using 120 volts and between 1,500 and 3,000 watts, a 30-amp breaker is also often adequate. However, some models may have different needs; units that use more watts than average may require a 40-amp breaker, while smaller units might only need a 20-amp breaker. Newer, tankless, or more energy-efficient models can also require a higher amperage. Having the correct breaker size is crucial for safe and efficient operation, so it's best to consult a licensed electrician to determine the specific needs of your water heater.

Moving an electrical meter in your home depends on what your electric utility company allows. If you only want to move it a few inches, that may be no problem or only incur light fees. If you want to move it a significant distance, you may need to arrange a utility inspection and get permission, or your utility company may prevent it altogether.