Schneider, Tom. More Power To the People. The Sunday Republican.

Abstract: This article examines different outlet devices that a consumer can purchase. All electrical devices that that a consumer has access to are safe if the instructions are followed. The consumer must know the capacity of the wiring to which the outlets will be attached. A standard 15 amp circuit can accommodate 1500 watts, which is about 13 amps. A toaster alone can use 13 amps. The user must be careful not to overload a circuit.

The article provides some advice on electrical outlets. The 4-in-1 plug is more reliable than the commonly used 3-way cube tap. A replacement 4-way outlet and an outlet strip must be used properly. The user should know the current the appliances draw and what the outlet can accommodate. Be careful when using extension cords. Most extension cords were designed for lamps or similar wattages. Most appliances, especially those with a heating element should not use a typical extension cord. A power strip containing six grounded outlets from one with a 15-amp circuit breaker is recommended to extend the number of outlets.

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