Outlet

An outlet is the electrical connection point where you plug in appliances, devices, and lighting throughout your home. From standard receptacles to GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms, these components keep your household running safely and efficiently. Whether you need new installations, upgrades, or repairs, Angi connects you with pros who can handle the job and provides helpful guides to support your project.

Related to Outlet Service

Outlet Service Articles and Advice
Timothy Moore  •  May 5, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Coaxial Cable Outlet? [2026 Data]
Find out how much it costs to install a cable outlet for TV or internet. Our expert guide breaks down the costs involved in installing a new coaxial outlet and explores how you can save and if you can do this project yourself.
Allie Ogletree  •  May 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install a 240V Outlet? [2026 Data]
The cost to install a 240-volt outlet varies depending on the amperage and the home’s current wiring conditions. Use this guide to budget for your next project.
Deirdre Sullivan  •  May 3, 2026
How to Wire an Outlet From Another Outlet in 9 Steps
Adding an outlet to your home can be as straightforward as connecting to an existing circuit. Learn how to wire an outlet from another outlet in this advanced-level DIY guide.
Gemma Johnstone  •  May 3, 2026
Is a Dead Outlet Dangerous? What You Need to Know
A dead outlet is more than an annoyance. It can be a fire hazard, too. Here’s how to deal with a dead outlet to keep your home safe and prevent fire.
Derek Rose  •  May 3, 2026
12 Electrical Outlet Types You Can Find in Your Home
Your home might have a variety of electrical outlets, depending on how old the structure is and what type of appliances you use. Learn the different types of outlets, how they work, and how you use them.
Deane Biermeier  •  May 3, 2026
How to Install a Coax Outlet in 7 Simple Steps
Learn how to install a coax outlet to save money and clean up the tangle of wires in your entertainment room or living room.
Angi  •  May 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Outlet? [2026 Data]
Discover the cost to replace outlets in your home. Learn about price factors, labor rates, and tips to save on your outlet replacement project.
Melissa Graham  •  May 3, 2026
Electrical Outlet Not Working? Here Are 7 Possible Causes
If your electrical outlet is not working, you can try troubleshooting the outlet to fix it. Here are several causes and solutions for a faulty electrical outlet.
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Common Outlet Service Questions

If only half of your outlet works, there are usually two possible causes: faulty wiring or a half-hot outlet. The first thing you'll want to do is check the circuit breaker panel to ensure that it's not tripped. If your circuit breaker isn't tripped, turn off the electricity and inspect the wiring to see if anything has come loose or corroded. 

If you have a half-hot outlet, it means half of the outlet is controlled by a switch somewhere on the same circuit, which should be nearby. This is an intentional electrical design commonly found in rooms without overhead lights.

Yes, an AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) outlet also has line and load terminals, although it uses different technology than a GFCI and offers a different kind of protection. AFCIs monitor for internal arc faults, a type of wiring problem that can start an electrical fire.

The best place to put an electrical outlet depends on your needs. A good rule of thumb is to install outlets every 6 feet in large rooms. Hallways over 10 feet long need one electrical outlet minimum. 

If you find yourself needing extra plug-ins for all of your gadgets, you may want to increase the number of electrical outlets in your room. When adding outlets, keep in mind that older homes could have outdated electrical panels. In these cases, you may need a pro to upgrade you from 100-amp to 200-amp service before increasing the power load.

Though they may seem similar at a quick glance, outdoor electrical outlets are different from indoor electrical outlets in that they have extra safety precautions to prevent electrical hazards. These include GFCIs, which some indoor outlets have, and a watertight cover that allows you to use electricity from the outlet even on a rainy day.

A 3-prong, 15-amp, 120-volt outlet is standard in the U.S. These have two vertical slots and a U-shaped grounding hole, which suits most home electronics, from televisions to microwaves. Three-pronged outlets are safer than 2-pronged ones, as the third wire, known as the grounding wire, helps prevent shocks and electrical fires.