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2 Prong Electric Outlets
Are there two-prong outlets in the home? You may need to take additional precautions to make sure they are safe to use. Two-prong outlets were once the norm in older homes but they are no longer safe and effective.
Let’s first take a look at the prongs on electrical tools, extension cords, and other devices before you remove them from your 2 prong outlets. Let’s find out why they exist and how we can upgrade them to code 3 prong outlets.
Are Two Prong Outlets Dangerous?
Two-prong outlets are dangerous and outdated because they lack grounding. Grounding is the way electricity is safely transferred when there is an unstable current. A short circuit is an electrical event that causes dangerous current to travel through ground wires. This allows the current to safely transfer and not shock you or your plugged-in appliance.
This is why two-prong outlets are the most dangerous type of outlet.
Two-Prong Outlets Upgraded to GFCI
Ground fault circuit interrupter or GFCI outlets are designed for protection against electric shock. This is the only three-prong outlet that can be used to replace two-prong outlets without violating NEC code guidelines. Even without the grounding component, GFCI outlets still provide protection against electric shock. If you replace a 2-prong outlet with the GFCI outlet, it must be marked with a “No Equipment Ground” sticker.
Rewire your Two-Prong Outlet’s box
Your two-prong outlet might not have a grounded wire, but your electrical system may. Even though it might be hidden, ground wire may still be present in older homes.
You will need to have your electrical system checked by a licensed electrician in order to determine if it can be done.
FAQs About 2 Prong Electrical Outlets
Are two prong outlets safe to use?
There is nothing wrong with using the two prong outlets. They aren’t dangerous. But, you should not plug a three-prong plug into a two-prong outlet. Refrain from using the adapter that converts two-prong outlets to three-prong outlets to plug in power cords or overload the circuit.
What is the cost of changing 2 prong outlets into 3-prong outlets?
If no walls are required to be opened, expect to pay $25-30 per linear foot for running new wire. All things considered, the cost of upgrading to a 3-prong outlet ranges from $100 to $300.
How can you make a 2-prong outlet more secure?
Install a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacle to increase the safety of your existing two-prong outlets. Even if the GFCI is not connected to a ground, it will protect you from a fatal shock.
Do You Have Two Prong Outlets?
If there is no grounding wire in the circuit that powers an outlet, you can replace it with another two-prong outlet. If you have to replace a two-prong outlet that is damaged, the National Electrical Code doesn’t allow you to break any codes.
Get Your 2 Prong Outlets Up to Code
Replace it with a GFCI
Retrofitting a Three Prong Receptacle without Rewiring
Rewire the Panel
Your outlets can be upgraded to a ground fault interrupter (or GFCI). The National Electrical Code states that outlets must be tamper-resistant if they are installed at least 5.5 feet above ground level. You must also label the outlet with “GFCI protected” or “no equipment ground”.
To provide ground, hire an electrician to rewire your panel using a three-wire circuit. This is the best way for your electronics and family to be protected from potential power surges and electrocution.
2 Prong Wall Outlet Conclusion
Do not buy adapters that convert 3 prongs to 2 prongs. Get your electrical outlets replaced. This will ensure your safety and that of your family. Contact us to speak to an electrician or complete the form below.