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Childproof Electrical Outlet Installation in Columbus, OH

Thousands of children are treated every year in emergency rooms throughout the nation because of electrical shocks and burns. The leading cause for electric shocks among kids is tampering with electrical outlets. If you have little ones in your home, we encourage you to protect them by installing child proof electrical outlets, also known as tamper-resistant receptacles (TRR). Tamper-proof electrical outlets provide an inexpensive, simple, and permanent solution for these accidents.

(614) 398-2988

Childproof Wall Outlet Services in Columbus, OH & Surrounding Areas

Although many child-proof outlets appear the same as standard wall outlets, they definitely aren’t. With spring-loaded receptacle cover plates protecting electrical contacts, they prevent the insertion of objects if unequal pressure is applied to the receptacle’s contact points. In other words, only plugs are able to penetrate the outlet. So if a little one tries inserting something else, it won’t get in.

For homeowners wanting to use a plug, using a childproof outlet is easy. These outlets don’t require any strength or knowledge to use, like most other child-proof devices. In order to insert a plug into the receptacle, simply apply equal pressure to both sides simultaneously (like anyone would normally do) which enables the receptacle’s cover plate to open. Almost a third of accidents occur when a child inserts common household items into receptacles. Almost three-quarters of these accidents happen when an adult is present. Items that children insert into power outlets can be found almost anywhere in a common home, such as hairpins, toys, plugs, paper clips, staples, earrings, and more.

What are Tamper-Resistant Outlets

Tamper-resistant outlets require two objects to be inserted simultaneously for electrical power. They contain a built-in shutter system that allows plugs to be inserted when equal pressure is applied simultaneously to both sides of the receptacle. Tamper-resistant outlets reduce the risk of electrical injuries, but they are not entirely tamper-proof. Unfortunately, some people believe that tamper-resistant outlets are “child proof” when they are not. Tamper-resistant outlets do not prevent children from imitating adults and inserting plugs into outlets.

Childproof Outlet Installation
Electrical Diagnostics in Columbus, OH

Electrical Repair & Diagnostics in Columbus, OH

A multitude of issues can arise when inexperienced individuals handle your electrical system. Ensuring the safety and functionality of your home is of utmost importance, which is why it is crucial to seek the expertise of a professional electrician. Whether you encounter peculiar electrical behavior, are in the process of purchasing a new property, or are preparing to sell, we highly recommend enlisting the services of Five Star Columbus Electrical. Our team of skilled electricians specializes in home electrical diagnostic and troubleshooting, providing a comprehensive analysis of your system's needs. Trust Five Star Columbus Electrical to keep your electrical system running smoothly and safely, so you can have peace of mind.

4 Ways to Childproof Your Outlets

Outlet Plugs

Outlet plugs, which come in various sizes and shapes, have the benefits of being inexpensive and can be good for travel however, these plugs can be a choking hazard, as children typically learn to remove them and will often put them in their mouths. This is especially true with older outlets, which may securely hold the plugs.

Sliding Outlet Covers

The second type of cover is the sliding outlet cover or self-closing cover. This type can easily be installed by removing the screw holding the existing cover plate and replacing it with the sliding outlet cover. When someone unplugs something, the cover automatically closes over the socket holes.

Box Outlet Covers

These products are available in different sizes to cover small or large electrical plugs and outlets. In addition, options are available to accommodate the size of larger adapters. Box outlet covers are great devices for items always plugged in and prevent a child from playing with an electrical plug. Also, the covers can be easily removed if the outlet is needed.

Tamper-Resistant Outlets

Tamper-resistant outlets require two objects to be inserted at the same time for electrical power. They contain a built-in shutter system that allows plugs to be inserted when equal pressure is applied simultaneously to both sides of the receptacle. Tamper-resistant outlets reduce the risk of electrical injuries, but they are not completely tamper-proof.

Are you a Columbus area homeowner interested in childproof outlet installation? Call Five Star at (614) 398-2988 today!

Childproof Electrical Outlet & Installation FAQ

HOW DO I STOP MY CHILD FROM UNPLUGGING PLUGS?

The easiest way to stop your toddler from unplugging power cords is to use plug and outlet covers. These are designed to cover the entire outlet so that your child can’t access the outlet or unplug the cable. Another option is to move furniture in front of the outlet, so access to the cord is blocked.

Why Is My Light Switch Hot?

When you reach for your light switch to turn it off, you have a problem only to find that it is hot to the touch. This is not a normal event, and it indicates that there are serious issues hiding behind your walls. If you don’t get help right away, you could end up facing a serious electrical fire in your home.

HOW DO TAMPER-RESISTANT OUTLETS WORK?

Tamper-resistant outlets add an extra layer of babyproofing to your home because they come outfitted with a spring-loaded shutter. When the outlet’s not in use, the shutter pops close to internally block the slots (also known as contact openings).

Tamper-resistant outlets add an extra layer of babyproofing to your home because they come outfitted with a spring-loaded shutter. When the outlet’s not in use, the shutter pops close to internally block the slots (also known as contact openings).

You need to compress both springs simultaneously to allow them to move, which can prevent a child from accidentally creating an electrical current by inserting toys or other objects into one of the slots. (Source)

Schedule Childproof Outlet Installation in Columbus, OH & Surrounding Areas

For just a few dollars an outlet, child-safe outlets cost pennies more than traditional receptacles. By upgrading to childproof outlets, you can bring your home up to code and make it safer for you and your loved ones. In fact, tamper-proof outlets are proven to be so effective that as of 2008, changes to the National Electrical Codes require the installation of these outlets in all new residential dwellings being built moving forward. Without child proof receptacles, your child is at risk of electrical burns, shocks, and fatal accidents.

Trust Five Star Columbus Electrical to keep your family safe by installing childproof outlets. We also install UDB outlets, smart outlets, LED lights with dimmers, and more. Call Five Star today to schedule outlet installation in Columbus, OH! We service Columbus, Pickerington, New Albany, OSU Campus, Victorian Village, Dublin, Hilliard, Canal Winchester, Galloway, Grove City, Upper Arlington, Downtown, Short North, and more. (614) 398-2988.