hey,
Most of the outlets in my home are the old one sw/ only 2 slots. I was thinking about updating them to 3 holed outlets. Is this a major problem, or is it simply a matter of connecting the old wires to the new outlet the same way?
thanks
birch

 

I realize that you would probably prefer to have me say that you can just replace them but it isn't that simple. You will need to find out if the wiring method that supplies the outlets includes an effecttive Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC). If it does than you can buy self grounding receptacles and install them in the existing metallic boxes and all will be well. If the wiring does not include an EGC then there are still some things you can do depending on what you will plug into the outlets.

Find out what wiring method supplies the outlets were you want to install new receptacles. If you don't know the proper name then don't guess. Describe it as fully as you can and we will advise from there.

If you install the replacement outlets on ungrounded wiring then you will be endangering everyone who uses them.
--
Tom