How Safe Are Ungrounded Outlets?
Ungrounded or 2-prong outlets are not up to code these days, but they’re still widely used in the United States. Unfortunately, outlets that are not grounded can be a potentially serious hazard.
If your home has ungrounded outlets, it’s important to understand why they’re not safe. Furthermore, homeowners may want to learn the benefits of having grounded 3-prong outlets in their homes.
What makes ungrounded outlets dangerous?
The third socket in a grounded outlet is connected to a grounding wire with a specific purpose. It sends extra current directly into the ground and prevents it from damaging appliances. Ungrounded outlets don’t have this additional safety feature and potentially pose a greater risk for any household, especially during a power surge.
Ungrounded outlets fell out of use in the US in the 1970s, meaning homes with these outlets have wiring that may break down soon.
Can ungrounded outlets be replaced?
Regardless of the age of the entire wiring system, replacing ungrounded outlets is highly recommended. However, this is a job best reserved for licensed electricians. Another option is to install a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) box that will cut the flow of electricity during a surge.
Benefits of grounding electricity
To better understand why ungrounded outlets are a safety issue, it’s vital to explain the importance of grounded outlets.
The distribution of electrical potential is needed whenever the circuits become overloaded. With a grounded electrical system, the current has a default direction to escape to. As a result, grounded electricity protects household appliances against getting fried or damaged, and more importantly, grounded outlets can prevent injury and death.
When not to use an ungrounded outlet
If there are ungrounded outlets in your home, it’s better to avoid them until they can be ground or replaced.
While plugging in a phone charger and electric razor into the 2-prong outlet is generally safe, some appliances should never be plugged into an ungrounded outlet. Here are a few to keep in mind:
PC or laptop
Vacuum
Power tools
Window air conditioner
Fridge
Essentially, kitchen appliances and sensitive electronic gear require the use of a grounded outlet.
Updating a home’s wiring system
Even though they’re not standard, people are usually not overly concerned about their home’s underground outlets. After all, if they’re working correctly, why bother?
Unfortunately, when an electrical problem occurs, it’s often too late to do something about it. The heart of the matter is that homeowners with ungrounded outlets at home should contact a licensed electrician and schedule a consultation.
Zimmerman Electric is here to serve your residential and commercial electrical needs throughout the Phoenix Valley metro area. Call us today if you need electrical work performed 602-497-3365.
