Floor Outlets Dangerous

Uncovered electric sockets around toddlers and babies.

Floor outlets dangerous. Common damage found on outlet receptacles. I see that type of outlet in hotels conference rooms and it is a little ugly but functional and safe. The proper way to use a floor outlet is to have a cutout in the carpet around the outlet and ideally a cover on the outlet when it is not in use to avoid dirt or even worse spilled drinks getting into the outlet. This is especially important if the outlets are in rooms with running water such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Electric outlets in bathrooms and kitchens must be a safe distance away from the sink or shower. Why you need covers many home owners choose to have floor outlet boxes. Covers for floor outlets are inexpensive decorative and can save you money on costly home repairs and doctor visits. Cracking is particularly likely on old outlets which were manufactured from hard bakelite an early form of plastic that is very brittle.

Ideally all such receptacles and outdoor sockets must be gfci ground fault circuit interrupting type so that the danger of electric shocks and fires is reduced. Cracked wire insulation caused by heat age corrosion or bending. Health hazards ungrounded outlets present a very real risk of shock to people who are using electronics and appliances plugged into the ungrounded outlet. In this case the outlets should be gfci as well.

Overheated wires or cords. Pinched or pierced wire insulation which could occur from for example a chair leg sitting on an extension cord. Frayed appliance or extension cords. The safety of your home and your family is important.

Similar danger can exist even if it s just the cover plate that is cracked or otherwise damaged.