Know the Dangers of Using Unsafe Adapters on Electrical Outlets

The average American home has around 70 receptacles outlets and 20-30 circuit breakers. Learn what gadgets to avoid using to keep you relectrical system safe at home.

Unsafe Electrical Products

  • Lamp Base Screw in Adapters:
    • Lamp base adapters that screw into lamp or lightbulb sockets may be safe if used correctly.
    • Only 2-prong polarized adapters may be safe
    • 3-prong adapters are not safe, these plugs are not properly grounded and sould not be used with appliances with 3-prong adapters
  • Outlet Tighteners:
    • Devices that are inserted into receptale outlets to prevent plugs from falling out are unsafe.
      • These devices can block a plug from contacting the outlet receptacle and can lead to overheating and fires. If your outlet can no longer hold a plug, replace it
  • Lamp Base/Socket Ceiling Fans:
    • Ceiling fans that screw into lamp or lightbulb bases may be too heaby for the listed weight limit for the ceiling base
    • Lamp bases are designed and tested to support lamps with no moving parts. Fan blases cause librations which may lead to telectrical fires or the fan falling out

Safety Certifications

Did you know that many electrical proudcts undergo testing to show they are safe? Certifications and listings from OSHA recognized testing labs like UL and CSA mean the product meets the minimum electrical safety standards. Always look for certification marks when purchasing electrical devices. 

How to Avoid Potentially Unsafe Electrical Products

  • Look for safety certification marks from reputable testing labs such as UL, CSA, or Intertek
  • Replace the outlet receptacles if the plug feels loose
  • Purchase from reputable retailers and distributors to help avoid counterfeits
  • Have a qualified electrician install additional outlets if needed