What Is a Tamper-Resistant Outlet?
Tamper-resistant outlets are now a required part of modern electrical codes, designed to reduce shock and prevent burn injuries. While they work exactly the same way as traditional outlets, tamper-resistant outlets have a built-in safety mechanism that blocks access unless you push in both slots at the same time. The idea is that you can’t insert an object like a paperclip or keys that can cause a shock.
For years, parents have used those plastic outlet caps, but they can be removed and bypassed. Not so with a tamper resistant outlet. Inside, there are spring-loaded shutters that are closed until a plug is inserted properly. So, if a child tries to push something into one slot, the shutters stay locked.
While locations like childcare centers and hotels have these TR outlets in place, the National Electric Code mandates these types of outlets in almost all new homes or when significant renovations are made to your electrical system.
Arizona Electrical Code Requirements for Tamper-Resistant Outlets
Arizona follows the National Electrical Code. Tamper-resistant receptacles have been required in new residential construction since 2008, but recent code updates expanded this to include 250V outlets, like those for dryers and EVs, and all attached garages.
Where Do I Need Tamper-Resistant Outlets in My Tempe Home?
Tamper-resistant outlets are required in most areas of a residential home today, including:
- Bedrooms
- Living rooms and family rooms
- Kitchens and dining areas
- Bathrooms
- Hallways
- Laundry rooms
- Garages and attached garages
- Areas with 250V outlets
In practice, this means nearly all accessible outlets inside your home in Tempe must be tamper-resistant to meet current code.
Tamper-Resistant Outlets in Older Tempe Homes
If your home was built after 2008, you likely have these types of outlets even if you don’t know it. However, the average Tempe home is more than 43 years old. So, most older homes won’t have TR outlets.
While you may be able to keep your current outlets in place, if you are doing any kind of renovation, electrical work, or room upgrades, it will typically trigger code compliance requirements.
Cost to Upgrade to Tamper-Resistant Outlets
When homeowners ask, what is a tamper resistant outlet, their next question is typically, how much is going to cost to upgrade?
The outlets themselves are inexpensive. However, you need professional installation, and how much time it takes to do so will depend on several factors, such as:
- The number of outlets you need to switch
- Age and conditions of your home’s wiring
- Configuration of outlet boxes
Homes with older wiring, multi-gang boxes, or DIY electrical work may require additional labor to make sure the job is done safely, and the work complies with current Arizona code requirements.
Can I Install a Tamper-Resistant Outlet Myself?
The job looks fairly easy. Shut off your power, take out the old outlet, and reattach the wires to the new one. However, there are often hidden hazards that can make this process dangerous. Many older homes, for example, have back-stabbed wiring, where wiring was pushed into the small holes on the back of an outlet instead of using screws to tighten them. This can cause the wires to get loose and cause electrical fires.
You might also have shared circuits, older wiring, or need upgrades to your system.
There’s another concern as well. Even if you do everything properly and there’s an incident, your homeowner’s insurance might not cover it. So, professional installation is strongly recommended, especially for homes with children, during renovations, in garages, or when upgrading dryer or EV outlets. A licensed electrician will ensure that every outlet meets current code and functions as intended.
Get Professional Tamper-Resistant Outlet Installation in Tempe
If your Tempe home was built before modern electrical codes or you are planning renovations, a professional outlet safety evaluation is the smartest way to go. George Brazil Plumbing & Electrical provides code-compliant tamper-resistant outlet installation to protect your family and ensure your home meets current Arizona standards.
Our licensed electricians will evaluate your electrical system, provide you with options, and present upfront pricing before the work begins. You get friendly, professional service from experienced, highly trained highly trained electricians who put a premium on safety. It’s why families in the Phoenix area have trusted George Brazil for decades.
Schedule a professional assessment to upgrade your outlets safely and correctly.