A duplex outlet is a type of electrical outlet that has two receptacles, or sockets, for plugging in devices. This is in contrast to a regular outlet, which only has one receptacle. The main difference between a duplex outlet and a regular outlet is the number of receptacles they have.
The most common type of duplex outlet is the standard duplex outlet, which has two receptacles side by side. Each receptacle can be used independently of the other, allowing you to plug in two devices at the same time. This can be useful in rooms where multiple devices need to be plugged in, such as living rooms, bedrooms, or offices.
Another type of duplex outlet is the TR (Tamper Resistant) duplex outlet. This type of outlet is designed to be childproof, as it has built-in safety features to prevent children from inserting objects into the receptacles. The TR outlets have spring-loaded shutters that block access to the receptacles unless equal pressure is applied simultaneously to both sides. This provides an extra layer of protection against electrical shocks and can be especially important in homes with young children.
There are also WR (Weather Resistant) duplex outlets, which are designed for outdoor use. These outlets have a weatherproof cover that protects them from water, dust, and other elements. WR outlets are typically used on patios, decks, and other outdoor areas where electrical devices may need to be plugged in.
It’s worth noting that both duplex and regular outlets come in different amperage ratings, which determine the amount of power they can handle. Common amperage ratings for residential outlets are 15 amps and 20 amps. The higher the amperage rating, the more power the outlet can handle without tripping the circuit breaker. It’s important to know the amperage rating of your outlet to ensure that you do not overload it with too many devices or appliances.
The main difference between a duplex outlet and a regular outlet is the number of receptacles they have. A duplex outlet has two receptacles, while a regular outlet has only one. Additionally, there are different types of duplex outlets, such as TR outlets and WR outlets, which offer additional safety features and protection against the elements. It’s essential to consider the amperage rating of your outlet to ensure it can handle the power requirements of your devices.