| Now, to understand what an open ground, or an | | | | breaker, and pull off your outlet cover to take a |
| electrical connection that isn't grounded. This is a | | | | look at its wiring. As this may be difficult to do as |
| situation where a three pronged outlet has only | | | | you may have to unscrew and pull out the outlet, |
| two, a hot and neutral wire, and no ground wire. | | | | it is better to have a professional do this for you. |
| Though these outlets look upgraded, they are not | | | | So instead of taking chances, and if you have |
| grounded and are disadvantageous for some | | | | doubts about the wiring of your house, get a |
| reasons. | | | | qualified electrician take a look at it. |
| First of all, they are a shock and safety hazard to | | | | How to take care of outlets that are not properly |
| your family. Shocks from these outlets can not | | | | grounded |
| only cause injury or death, but are also hazardous | | | | If you find a negative reading on your tester, |
| to any equipment you plug into them. | | | | remember that there may be other outlets in |
| Secondly, most appliances like refrigerator, | | | | your house that are also not grounded. So it's |
| dishwasher, television and practically any | | | | better to hire a qualified electrician to do a |
| equipment using a 3 pronged plug need grounded | | | | thorough checkup, and take the recommended |
| outlets for safety and warranty reasons. Any of | | | | steps. |
| this equipment that is plugged into an outlet that is | | | | Another option you have includes using new |
| not grounded not only damages the unit, but also | | | | wiring. However as its installation requires the use |
| voids the warranty of the product. | | | | of a code with specific requirements, and language |
| Tips to ensure your outlet is grounded | | | | that has to be shown on the outlet cover, this is |
| Plug-in testers are quite reliable in finding this out. | | | | not recommended as a beginner's DIY project. It |
| They are small and inexpensive, and easily | | | | is too dangerous to you, your family and your |
| available at electrical supply stores. | | | | electrical appliances; and should only be done by a |
| You could always cut the electricity at the | | | | professional, if at all necessary. |