Are Outlets With USB Ports Safe?
Smartphones, computers and other modern devices use a USB connection to charge as opposed to a traditional outlet. Fortunately, you can buy outlets that have been traditional slots and slots specifically for your USB cords. When properly installed and maintained, they are generally safe for all devices. Let’s take a closer look at what you should know prior to buying and installing this type of product.
Understanding USB Outlets
Most devices use either an USB-A connection or a USB-C connection. Older devices that have square connectors use the USB-A slot while newer devices typically rely on USB-C connections.
Typically, a USB-C connection enables faster charging, which means that you won’t be without your phone, tablet or other device for long. In addition, the USB-C makes it easier to transfer data between devices. For instance, you could transfer files from your phone to your laptop for editing at home or from your computer to your phone to take with you to a presentation.
It’s important to note that older devices may not be compatible with USB-C connections. Your device may let you know about a compatibility issue when you try to plug it in. You may also notice that your device doesn’t charge or has issues transferring data.
Are USB Outlets Guaranteed Safe?
Generally speaking, a USB outlet is safe for use in the home, office or wherever else you need to install it. However, it does have the potential to overheat, and the risk increases if it is not installed properly or if there are other issues with the surrounding electrical grid.
The risk of overheating may also increase if you use products that aren’t made by known or reputable brands. This may occur if you buy the outlet online from a reseller in another country.
In addition to poorer quality, the product may be designed to meet standards in other countries. Ultimately, there is no way to be sure if the product is designed for use in your home or if it can be used safely.
How to Make Sure Your USB Outlet Is Safe
There are a number of easy steps that you can take to make sure that your USB is safe for use. Critically, you should look for products made by brands that comply with National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
You should be able to determine if a given product is compliant by looking at the item itself. Alternatively, you can ask the manufacturer about its compliance efforts, and if the item is being installed by a professional, you can ask the technician if your outlet is NEC compliant.
The outlets themselves may come with chips, surge protectors and other tools to monitor power levels. If the power levels get too high, they may shut themselves off or take other steps to bring demand back to acceptable levels.
Finally, you can reduce the risk of overheating or an electrical fire by strategically placing outlets. Ideally, they will be placed in areas that aren’t prone to moisture or pest infestations.
Should You Install Outlets Yourself?
Another way to reduce your risk is to have an outlet installed by a professional. Although there will be an additional cost for this service, it can be less expensive than accidentally burning your house down.
Furthermore, professionals have the experience and knowledge to perform electrical work safely. They are also more likely to do so in compliance with applicable safety regulations. However, if you have the relevant knowledge and experience to perform this type of task, you can feasibly do so without hurting yourself or damaging your home.
What Else to Know About Using USB Outlets Safely
You should never put more strain on an outlet than it can handle. In other words, it may be best to avoid using all the traditional outlet and USB slots at the same time. If you can, unplug your computer before charging your phone to ensure that it charges safely and quickly.
It’s also critical to perform routine maintenance on any outlet in your home. Every few days or weeks, look for any obvious signs of damage such as burn marks, chew or claw marks or the presence of strange odors. Chewing or claw marks may be signs of a pest infestation while strange odors may be caused by smoke or other problems inside of the outlet.
Buzzing or hissing noises from the outlet may also indicate that there is a problem that needs immediate attention. A professional may be able to diagnose and fix the issue in a timely, safe and affordable manner.
If you need help installing or repairing a USB outlet, the team at Mister Sparky will be happy to assist you. When you work with Mister Sparky, you won’t deal with any malarky. Instead, you’ll get prompt service from professional and knowledgeable technicians who will meet your needs and budget from start to finish.