replacing "no ground" recepticles
#1
02-24-05, 02:17 PM
replacing "no ground" recepticles
Hi,
Some of the outlets in our house were installed with only 2 wire cable. I read that a GFI outlet can be used as a replacement to facillitate a 3 prong plug while also giving protection from shock. Is this correct?
I would appreciate some feedback. Thanks
Some of the outlets in our house were installed with only 2 wire cable. I read that a GFI outlet can be used as a replacement to facillitate a 3 prong plug while also giving protection from shock. Is this correct?
I would appreciate some feedback. Thanks
#2
02-24-05, 02:42 PM
A GFCI can be installed and will allow a three prong plug device to be installed. There will be protection from a ground fault.
However, the circuit will not be grounded. Some electronic equipment may not function properly.
Depending on what you want to plug in, you really should properly ground the circuit.
However, the circuit will not be grounded. Some electronic equipment may not function properly.
Depending on what you want to plug in, you really should properly ground the circuit.
#6
02-25-05, 08:58 AM
Surge Protectors
Just for reference, surge protectors will not work on these ungrounded outlets even with GFCI. You'll be safe from shock, but your equipment (such as computers, A/V, etc) will still be at risk of getting damaged by spikes.
#7
02-25-05, 09:15 AM
Member
Mode 2 surge suppressors won't work well. But mode 1 surge suppressors will still work (although they don't provide as much protection as a grounded mode 2, and they're harder to find).
#8
02-26-05, 02:28 PM
GFI questions
Thanks to all who replied to my query and for all the information. I was thinking of moving my computer to a room that does not have a grounded recepticle and installing a GFI there, however after reading the good advice I will not do it until I can ground that circuit. Our house was built about 1950 approx. and the bedrooms don't have grounded circuits. It wouldn't be an easy job to rewire either because the basement ceilings are finished.....so I have something to think about now.
I appreciate the help.
tombell
I appreciate the help.
tombell
#9
02-26-05, 04:32 PM
Member
Don't let the finished ceiling slow you down. Tear down part or all of the drywall, do your wiring, and install new drywall. Drywall is dirt cheap and easy to put up. The hardest part of the job is repainting the ceiling.
