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[–] 4 points 2 years ago (7 children)

So is the problem solved by not plugging it into a powered wall plug? Just like... flick the switch off, like you would a light switch before changing a bulb?

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  • [–] 7 points 2 years ago (4 children)

    Most American outlets aren't switched. They can be but most aren't. If you're really paranoid you can throw the breaker at the panel.

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  • [–] 2 points 2 years ago (3 children)

    Wait really? I don't think I have a single unswitched plug in my house, and I've never seen another house with even a single unswitched plug. Do US people need to unplug cords to get rid of standby lights?

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  • [–] 3 points 2 years ago* (2 children)

    Behold the typical North American duplex power outlet. They typically do not have a built in switch. They might be controlled by a light switch, so you can throw a switch near the door and have the floor lamps turn on but most are always hot.

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  • [–] 2 points 2 years ago (1 child)

    Image

    That's Australia's.

    Because of the no switch, does US plugs spark a lot when getting plugged in?

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  • Technically yes, as do those switches internally, but if the device you're plugging in is switched off or pulls a very small load it won't be much. If you're plugging in an air conditioner or something that's going to present a big inductive load, and it is switched on so it will get power the instant it plugs in, yeah you might see a little flash of light. make sure such things are switched off before plugging them in.

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