Houses built before the 1960s had different electrical codes than we do now – including the fact that two prong outlets were standard rather than the average three prong we typically see today. The third hole in our outlets essentially protects against surges and shocks, and while two-prong outlets are not necessarily a cause for concern, they can be easily upgraded without major rewiring.
Is It Safe To Replace A Two Prong Outlet In Your Home?
Although you can safely swap a two-prong outlet for a three-prong, it does not ground the outlet. As long as the socket is working properly, you can change it, but it should be labeled with a “No Equipment Ground” sticker. You will also need to replace the old outlet with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) that protects the user from electric shock. For the most part, they are placed in bathrooms and kitchens where the outlet is likely to come in contact with water and the outlet will trigger to shut down when it detects the risk of electric shock. How Security electricity explained:
The GFCI “feels” the difference between the amount of electricity flowing into the circuit and the amount of electricity flowing away, even with amounts of electricity as low as 4 or 5 milliamps. The residual current circuit breaker reacts quickly (less than a tenth of a second) to trigger or close the circuit.
Before you begin, make sure you know where the breaker is to break the current. In the past, we recommended Shutting down the entire network or circuit breaker just to be sure. The process should only take a few minutes and your power will be back on in no time.
How to install a three-prong electrical outlet
Make sure you have these tools before you begin.
Once you have all of your supplies on hand, turn off the breaker and use the voltage tester to make sure there is no power coming to the outlet. If the meter detects current, you may have a major electrical problem and should contact an electrician immediately.
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After confirming that the power is off, you can Start by replacing the outlet. Use your screwdriver to remove the faceplate around the socket; Below you will find the fastening screws that secure the socket. Go ahead and remove these screws. (Feel free to wear it rubberized work gloves.) Once the socket is loose, pull it out of the wall to reveal the two wires that secure it in place. (Take this opportunity to double check that the power is off.)
Take your micro-side cutter and cut the two wires that attach the socket. You now need to strip the wires according to the stripping measurement on the back of your GFCI socket. This measuring device shows you how much of the wire jacket needs to be stripped for the new socket. Make sure you only strip as much insulation as the meter requires, otherwise you run the risk of exposed wires in the socket.
After stripping the wires, attach them to the appropriate voltage receptors. How Daily house repairs instructs: “Gold turns black when it is hot. And then white or the neutral wire goes to the silver screw terminal. ”You take the black cable and place it under the golden plate at the exit (all the way in until no more copper is visible) and screw it tight. Then take the white or neutral wire and do the same thing on the silver plated side and screw it in place.
After that, wrap the black electrical tape around the socket, completely covering the sides. The tape adds another layer. added Protection against electrical current. Be careful not to cut the tape and not pull or tear, as the tape will break and lay flat on the case for a secure hold.
Watch the Everyday Home Repairs video for detailed visual instructions:
Now you can fix the socket in the wall and screw it back on. After everything is replaced, turn the breaker back on and test the voltage to make sure everything is working properly.
