Electrical Power Outlets

Power outlets are essential in any commercial or domestic setting. Having enough outlets is crucial for providing a safe, evenly dispersed power supply.

If you are trying to source a suitable electric outlet, you will find what you need here at RS. We stock a range of power outlets and these products are made by established manufacturers and can be shipped to you today.

Read on to find out more about electrical power outlets and their uses.

What are power outlets?

Power outlets contain an electrical current, which provides your equipment with the energy they need to function when plugged into the outlet. An electric outlet can power anything from a computer to machinery and having a good quality socket is a sound investment.

Power outlets are often referred to as an electric or wall outlet, electric plug, or power socket. They are usually installed into walls, but they are sometimes fitted to the floor or ceiling in industrial or office settings.

How do electric power outlets work?

An electric outlet acts as the gateway for equipment to connect to the electrical grid. The electrical grid sends alternating current to the outlet. The two holes that we see in the outlet are part of a loop of wire, and this wire acts as an electrical conductor. When the plug attached to the electrical equipment or machinery is inserted into the electric outlet, the loop is complete, creating a circuit. This means that electricity flows through the equipment, powering it up.

The standard voltage in the U.S. is 120V for an electric outlet, while the average is higher in Europe, with values between 220 and 240V. A 125V outlet is also available in some instances, but you will need to check the voltage capacity in the building before you install the outlet. Additionally, you will need to check the current rating to ensure it is suitable and safe.

When you see the current rating for the outlet, you may also notice the letter ‘R’ or the word ‘receptacle’. This indicates that it is a receptacle for the plug that is attached to the electrical equipment.

The voltage and current rating will be listed on the outlet so you can see where it could be a suitable fit.

What is the difference between a two-pronged and three-pronged outlet?

There are 15 types of electrical power outlets used worldwide. The US Department of Commerce International Trade Administration has assigned each of these 15 with a letter, and the outlets are type A (a two-pronged outlet) and B (a three-pronged outlet) in North America.

The two-pronged power outlets tend to be more common in older homes and they do not have the ‘grounded’ hole that the three-pronged outlets have. These type A outlets do not have a grounding wire, whereas the type B ones do. The grounding wire is an added layer of safety as it takes any additional current into the ground, neutralizing the current and returning it to a safe level. Newer houses and commercial buildings are required to have the type B, three-pronged power outlets.

What are power outlets used for?

Power outlets are used to operate electrical equipment and appliances. However, they have a variety of applications.

For instance, a wall outlet in a residential property will be used to operate domestic equipment, such as a microwave or hair dryer. A power socket in a factory, office, or other commercial setting is more likely to be used to operate machinery or provide power for computers.

When you are searching for an electric outlet, it is worth having the setting you will need it for in mind.

What are the different features of power outlets?

When you are choosing the electric outlet, it is worth having an idea of the different types that are available. If you are looking at the range for sale at RS, you will see that you can use the filters on the left-hand side of the page to narrow your search or use the search bar at the top of the page.

Here are some examples of the features that our power outlets offer:

DIN rail power outlet

An outlet that is suitable for mounting onto a DIN rail is a practical power outlet storage solution. They can be added to the rail and stored inside a control cabinet, keeping floorspace clear of cables and wires.

Multi-plug outlet

If you need to power several electrical items at once, a multi-plug outlet is the ideal solution.

Surge protector outlet

A surge protector outlet is designed in a way that prevents power surges. If there are several electrical devices plugged in at once, the protector is equipped to stop it from overloading, causing the damage to the electrical equipment.

Why choose RS for your power outlets?

We are the largest authorized distributor of power outlets in North America. We stock leading manufacturers, including Siemens, Phoenix Contact, Hoffman, Schurter, and our own brand RS PRO. Our range of power outlets meets the highest industry standards of performance, ensuring you can create a space that is both practical and safe.

Should you have any questions, our team is on hand to help – get in touch today. You can also find advice in our expert content hub.