Editing AC power plugs and sockets (section)

==== Shaver supply units ====
[[File:ShaverSocketUK.jpg|thumb|upright=0.6|Shaver supply unit for BS&nbsp;4573, US&nbsp;Type&nbsp;A, Australian two-pin, and Europlug Type&nbsp;C]]

National wiring regulations sometimes prohibit the use of sockets adjacent to water taps, etc. A special socket, with an [[isolation transformer]], may allow electric razors to be used near a sink. Because the isolation transformer is of low rating, such outlets are not suitable to operate higher-powered appliances such as [[hair dryer]]s.

An IEC standard 61558-2-5, adopted by [[European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization|CENELEC]] and as a national standard in some countries, describes one type of shaver supply unit. Shaver sockets may accept multiple two-pin plug types including Australian (Type&nbsp;I) and [[AC power plugs and sockets: British and related types#BS 4573 (UK_shaver)|BS&nbsp;4573]]. The isolation transformer often includes a 115&nbsp;V output accepting two-pin US plugs (Type&nbsp;A). Shaver supply units must also be current limited, IEC 61558-2-5 specifies a minimum rating of 20&nbsp;[[Volt-ampere|VA]] and maximum of 50&nbsp;VA.<ref>IEC&nbsp;61558-2-5</ref> Sockets are marked with a shaver symbol, and may also say "shavers only".

Isolation transformers and dedicated NEMA&nbsp;1-15 shaver receptacles were once standard installation practice in North America, but now a [[Residual-current device|GFCI]] receptacle is used instead. This provides the full capacity of a standard receptacle but protects the user of a razor or other appliance from leakage current.

Differences between BS4573 Type&nbsp;C and Europlug Type&nbsp;C. The BS4573 plug has round 5mm contacts, spacing 16mm. The Euro-plug has 4mm contacts, spacing 19mm. In order to plug a Europlug into a BS4573 socket, an adaptor is required.