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
Jill Harness  •  Aug 1, 2026
How to Fix Loose Outlets: A Step-by-Step Guide
If your plugs are sliding out halfway after you insert them into the outlet, this is a fire hazard. Learn how to fix loose outlets in your home.
Allie Ogletree  •  Jul 31, 2026
Does a GFCI Outlet Need to be Grounded?
If you want to upgrade outdated outlets, you may be wondering if you can replace ungrounded outlets with GFCI outlets. Keep reading to find out.
Derek Rose  •  Jul 15, 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.
Gemma Johnstone  •  Jul 15, 2026
What Is a GFCI Outlet and How Does It Work?
GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter. But what is a GFCI outlet, exactly? See how they lower the risk of shock or fire and where to use them.
Melissa Graham  •  Jul 10, 2026
How to Wire An Outlet: 6 Steps to Success
This is one electrical project you can tackle without the help of an expert. Learn how to wire your own outlet with just a few tools in this step-by-step guide.
Allie Ogletree  •  Jul 10, 2026
Don’t Know Where to Put Electrical Outlets? Check Out These 8 Ideas
Putting electrical outlets in the right places all across your home can make your life a lot easier. Check out this guide on where to put electrical outlets.
Allie Ogletree  •  Jul 9, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About the Types of GFCI Outlets
There are many types of GFCI outlets, but knowing which is best for your home can be a challenge. Here’s a guide on the 10 most common GFCI outlets.
Tyler Lacoma  •  Jul 9, 2026
GFCI Outlet Wiring: Line vs. Load
GFCI outlets offer shock protection, but they’re more complicated to install than standard outlets. Our guide to GFCI outlet wiring line vs. load will make it all clear.
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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.