While standard receptacles typically use three wires -- hot, neutral and ground -- you'll occasionally find 2-prong outlets in older homes. Since this type of outlet lacks a ground connection, the ...

John Carlsen has more than a decade of experience testing and reviewing home tech products, with a major focus on smart home security. He earned his BS in journalism from Utah Valley University. In ...

Outlets and receptacles. What's the difference? Which one goes where? Our expert is here to clear up the confusion.

Wall outlets might not steal the spotlight when it comes to smart home upgrades, but they're more important (and more advanced) than ever. As our homes fill up with devices, from phones and tablets to ...

All questions and answers are based on the 2011 NEC. Q. What are the Code rules for using floor receptacles to meet the receptacle wall outlet requirements in a dwelling wall space? A.Floor receptacle ...

All questions and answers are based on the 2017 NEC. Underlined text indicates a change in the rules for the 2017 NEC. Q. What are the Code rules for the installation of countertop and work surface ...