Is there a trick to tamper resistant outlets?

Tamper resistant outlets, also known as TR outlets, are special electrical outlets designed to prevent shocks and electrocution, especially in children. They have a built-in shutter system that only allows an electrical plug to make contact with the outlet if it is pushed in with equal pressure on both prongs. This helps prevent children from inserting objects like paperclips or keys into the slots. TR outlets are now required by code in all new home construction in the United States and Canada. But is there a trick to getting around this safety feature?

What are tamper resistant outlets?

Tamper resistant outlets, sometimes abbreviated as TR outlets, are a special type of electrical outlet that contains a built-in shutter system to prevent accidental shocks and electrocution. Here are some key facts about TR outlets:

– They have a plastic shutter mechanism inside that only opens when an electrical plug is inserted with both prongs at the same time. This prevents objects like paperclips or keys from making contact.

– The shutters do not open if only one prong is inserted, so a child would be unable to insert a small object into the slots.

– TR outlets are designed to “trip” easily if uneven pressure is applied on the shutters. This helps prevent shocks.

– They became part of the National Electrical Code requirements in 2008 and are now mandatory in all new home construction in the US and Canada.

– TR outlets may have a small icon indicating they are tamper resistant. The shutters themselves are not visible from the outside.

– They are intended to help reduce the risk of accidental electrocution and shocks, especially in children under 5. However, they do not guarantee protection.

So in summary, TR outlets provide an important safeguard thanks to their internal shutter design, but they are not completely foolproof. The shutters can be defeated in some cases.

Why were tamper resistant outlets introduced?

Tamper resistant outlets were developed to help prevent accidental electrocution and shocks, especially in young children. Here is some background on why they became part of electrical safety standards:

– Electrical outlets pose a major danger to young kids who may try to insert objects into the slots. This can result in severe burns or death by electrocution.

– From 1990-2010, there were an estimated 2,400 children under 5 treated in emergency rooms every year for injuries related to inserting objects into electrical receptacles.

– Tampering with outlets was the third leading cause of electrocution deaths in young children.

– Conventional outlets have no built-in protections. TR outlets were designed to help address this problem through the use of the shutter mechanism.

– The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommended the development and adoption of TR outlets.

– After extensive testing and analysis, TR outlets were incorporated into the National Electrical Code in 2008. They became mandatory in all new home construction in the US and Canada.

– Authorities view TR outlets as an effective way to help protect young children from electrical dangers in the home. However, supervision and safety covers are still recommended.

So in summary, the high incidence of injuries and electrocutions led authorities to determine that adding protection directly to outlets could be an effective preventative measure. The introduction of the tamper resistant outlet design was the result.

How do you identify a tamper resistant outlet?

There are a few ways to identify whether an electrical outlet has the tamper resistant design:

– Look for a “TR” marking on the faceplate. Many TR outlets will have this label molded into the plastic.

– Examine the slots. TR outlet slots may be more tightly enclosed compared to non-TR types.

– Try inserting an object into one slot only. If the object goes in and makes contact with the metal on one prong only, it is not a tamper resistant model.

– Use a plug that has just one prong. In a TR outlet, a single prong should not be able to contact the metal conductors inside.

– Check inside the outlet if you can remove the faceplate. Tamper resistant models will have a plastic shutter mechanism that only opens when two prongs are inserted.

– Refer to building records for new construction or renovations completed after 2008. TR outlets are required by code in all new residential builds.

– Test using a circuit tester. Most testers will indicate if an outlet has TR protection.

– As a last resort, turn off the power and use a multimeter to check for continuity between the hot slots and neutral with just one prong making contact. There should be no continuity in a TR outlet.

In summary, the TR label, shutter mechanism, and failure of the single prong test are the best ways to verify an outlet is tamper resistant. Checking codes and records can also provide confirmation in newer homes.

Can you bypass or override a tamper resistant outlet?

It is possible to bypass or override the protections in a tamper resistant outlet in order to defeat the safety shutters. However, this is extremely dangerous and defeats the entire purpose of the TR design. It should never be attempted. Some possible (but unsafe!) ways to override TR outlets:

– File or cut notches into both outlet slots. This can allow an object to contact both hot and neutral conductors without tripping the shutters.

– Bend back the shutters using a paperclip. With the shutters held open, objects could then make contact.

– Remove the faceplate and break off the plastic shutter mechanism inside the outlet. This leaves the receptacle with no protection at all.

– Insert rigid objects like tweezers into both slots simultaneously. Applying outward pressure can force the shutters open.

– Use an ungrounded adapter or cheater plug that has both prongs on the same side. This can push in and defeat the shutters.

– Overload one of the receptacle sockets. By applying 120V to the neutral side, the imbalance can open the shutters.

– Wrap one side of a plug partially in foil to misshape it. This could trick the shutters into opening with uneven pressure.

These methods can be found discussed online by those looking to purposefully bypass TR safety mechanisms. However, this is extremely hazardous and can easily lead to lethal shocks and electrocution. Tampering with outlets to override the tamper resistance completely negates the protective benefits. It should never be attempted under any circumstances due to the danger involved.

Are splitter or adapter plugs allowed in tamper resistant outlets?

Splitter plugs, also known as adapter plugs, allow multiple devices to be plugged into a single outlet. They are generally not recommended for use in tamper resistant outlets:

– Most splitters apply uneven pressure when inserted into an outlet, meaning they can easily defeat the TR safety shutters.

– Using a splitter plug likely violates the electrical code that requires TR outlets in all new home construction.

– The splitter may allow a child to insert an object into one of its receptacles or vacant slots, circumventing the protections of the TR outlet.

– Overloading an outlet with multiple devices via a splitter can lead to excessive current draw and overheating. TR outlets are designed to trip with uneven loads.

– Authorities such as the Electrical Safety Foundation International recommend against using splitters or adapters with tamper resistant outlets.

In summary, while a splitter or adapter plug may technically function in a TR outlet, it is not advisable. The uneven contact can override the tamper protections, and creates other safety hazards related to overloading. For guaranteed safety, devices plugged into a TR outlet should always use their own dedicated plug.

What are outlet covers and are they required?

Outlet covers are plastic devices that fit over an electrical outlet to prevent access to the slots. While recommended for safety, they are not an electrical code requirement like tamper resistant outlets now are.

Key facts about outlet covers:

– They are available in different designs such as slide covers, rotating shutters, and simple flat plates. Some are lockable.

– Covers are designed to prevent curiosity and tampering by young children. They deter fingers and objects being inserted.

– Using covers in addition to TR outlets adds an extra layer of protection. However, covers alone do not provide the internal shutter mechanism that TR outlets have.

– The National Electrical Code does not mandate use of outlet covers, though they are recommended as a defensive practice.

– The Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests using covers until children are old enough to understand electrical dangers.

– Outlet covers must be removed when actively using the receptacle to allow full contact of the plug.

– Covers that are damaged or prevent proper plug insertion should be replaced.

So in summary, while not a code requirement, outlet covers add an additional level of safety against tampering especially when used along with TR outlets. Families with young children are advised to utilize covers.

Can you plug high wattage appliances into tamper resistant outlets?

Yes, high wattage appliances such as stoves, ovens, heaters, and air conditioners can safely be plugged into a tamper resistant electrical outlet. The TR mechanisms do not affect or reduce normal outlet functioning.

Some key points about high wattage appliances and TR outlets:

– TR outlets are backward compatible and can accept both regular and polarized plugs. Special 240V plugs may require pigtail adapters.

– The tamper protections are purely mechanical. They do not reduce the outlet’s amperage or voltage capacity in any way.

– Code requires kitchen, laundry room, and HVAC outlets to use the TR design. So major appliances are intended to be plugged into TR receptacles.

– One caveat is that very high loads can potentially damage the plastic TR shutters over time. But this would be very rare in typical homes.

– It is still wise to avoid daisy chaining multiple high power devices off the same outlet to prevent tripping breakers.

– For the highest wattage appliances, it is recommended to provide a dedicated outlet just for that device.

So in summary, TR outlets are made to handle normal outlet loads like major home appliances. The tamper mechanisms are designed not to interfere with making full electrical contact for these plugs. High wattage devices can and should be plugged into TR receptacles according to code requirements.

Do tamper resistant outlets wear out over time?

Like most mechanical devices, tamper resistant outlets can wear out over time after years of use. However, when properly installed, TR outlets are generally very durable. Here are some factors related to potential wear:

– The plastic shutter mechanisms are rated for a minimum of 1500 insertion/removal cycles. Far more than typical for a residential outlet.

– The shutters themselves are made from high-strength thermoplastic polymers designed for durability and heat resistance.

– Inserting plugs carefully without forcing or twisting helps minimize wear and tear on the tamper protections.

– Using condenser discharge tools when working on a circuit helps protect the TR mechanisms from arcing damage.

– Basement, kitchen, and outdoor outlets may wear out faster due to moisture, caustic cleaners, or temperature extremes.

– Loose plugs, overloading, and electrical faults can lead to overheating that degrades the plastics prematurely.

– Inspect outlets occasionally for any cracks, burn marks, or malfunctioning shutters. Replace if damage is found.

– TR outlets cost a few dollars more than standard outlets, so are economical to replace as needed.

So while TR outlets can eventually wear out after extended heavy use, they are designed to be extremely durable. With proper installation and care, most TR receptacles should provide many years of reliable tamper-resistant service.

Can you replace a standard outlet with a tamper resistant outlet?

Yes, it is perfectly safe and allowed by electrical code to replace a standard, non-tamper-resistant outlet with a TR outlet. Here are some tips for replacing an existing outlet with a TR version:

– Purchase the correct TR outlet model for your voltage, amperage, and number of ports needed. Match the replacements to outlet style.

– Turn off the circuit breaker supplying power to that outlet before doing any work. Verify it is fully deenergized.

– Remove the existing outlet carefully noting wiring connections. Detach all wires cleanly from the terminals.

– Insert the new TR outlet into the electrical box and securely fasten it in place aligned properly.

– Reconnect each wire to the matching terminal on the new outlet. Follow existing wire colors and placement.

– Make sure wires are fully inserted into the terminals with no loose strands outside. Tighten terminal screws securely.

– Replace the faceplate, turn the circuit breaker back on, and test the outlet. Plug should insert smoothly with the shutters operating normally.

– Consider replacing outlets systematically over time to upgrade the entire home. Focus on areas like nurseries and kids’ rooms first.

With proper safety procedures, upgrading standard receptacles to tamper-resistant versions is an easy DIY project. It provides added protection against electrical hazards.

Conclusion

In summary, tamper resistant outlets provide an important layer of protection, especially for families with small children. The safety shutters are designed to prevent accidental shocks and electrocution from objects being inserted. While not completely foolproof, TR outlets meet national electrical code standards for significantly enhancing safety. They can be easily identified by markings and the failure of single prong tests. While it is possible to override the tamper resistance, this is extremely dangerous and should never be attempted. TR outlets are made to handle all normal residential loads. With reasonable care they typically provide many years of reliable service. Homeowners can further improve safety by pairing TR outlets with simple plastic outlet covers as an added protective measure.