Q: When I plugged my cell phone charger into a kitchen outlet, my phone didn’t start charging as it normally does—rather, it seemed that this one electrical outlet was not working. Is there something ...

Have you ever noticed how some electrical outlets in your home look slightly different from the rest? Instead of a smooth plate, these outlets feature two small buttons, often colored black and red.

Beth Skwarecki is Lifehacker’s Senior Health Editor, and holds certifications as a personal trainer and weightlifting coach. She has been writing about health for over 10 years. I was once this close ...