Electrical Receptacles Key Terms

Plug into the needs of your customers by learning electrical receptacles key terms

By Harrison Howe

If you're an electrician or run an electrical supply store, chances are you'll have many customers looking for electrical receptacles. You'll best be able to assist these customers if you're familiar with many electrical receptacles key terms. By knowing that Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles are used primarily in bathrooms and kitchens, or that 220-volt receptacles are needed for some appliances, you'll gain the trust, and likely the business, of these customers.

Outlet

An outlet is simply another term for an electrical receptacle. Outlets are wired devices into which appliances can be plugged to receive electricity. Outlets are used in residential homes or commercial buildings.
Try: The Circuit Detective provides a detailed description of outlet in its definitions of household electrical terms.

Grounded duplex receptacles

The standard types of electrical receptacles are those that have two plug-in sockets and can receive three-pronged plugs. These are known as grounded duplex receptacles. These receptacles are the standard used in most U.S. homes and many commercial and business settings.
Try: HomeTips.com gives a full description of grounded duplex receptacles and provides photos of these devices.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacle shuts off power to prevent electrical shock. The National Electric Code (NEC) calls for use of GFCI receptacles in bathrooms, kitchens and garages.
Try: Find a detailed definition and picture of a GFCI receptacle at Renovation Experts.

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI)

Another type of safety electrical receptacle is known as an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI). Used mainly in bedrooms, this type of receptacle shuts off if too much heat builds up in the receptacle.
Try: Find an explanation of what AFCI electrical receptacles are at Decker Home Services.

AL-CU or CU-AL

Electrical receptacles are marked with certain letters designated by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and indicate what type of wiring can be used with specific receptacles. AL-CU or CU-AL indicates electrical receptacles that cannot be used with aluminium wiring.
Try: InspectAPedia.com provides a detailed explanation about AL-CU or CU-AL codings on electrical receptacles.

220-volt receptacles

Some heavy duty appliances like clothes dryers or ovens may require more electricity than the standard 120-volts. Stronger 220-volt electrical receptacles, with different prong-hole configurations, are needed for these appliances.
Try: CalFinder has a thorough explanation of 220-volt electrical receptacles and why they are used.