Do You Know Why The Outlet By Your Sink Is Different?

When most people talk about an outlet, they mean the spot your phone plugs in. And while that’s one type, there’s a lot more. You use dozens of different outlets every day in your home. This video goes over several types and why they fail. Then we answer some listener questions on the topic.

One reason a plug might look different is the amount of power it can handle. These ones often power your bigger appliances like a dryer, a stove, or a dishwasher. They’re set up to only have one thing plugging into them, and are too big for a standard plug.

Another specialty outlet is called a Ground Fault Interrupter outlet. You can usually find one near wet places with buttons that say “Test” and “Reset.” Electricity wants to get to the ground, so GFI outlets will protect your family by shutting off if they sense dangerous levels of power.