Two-prong electrical outlets are standard in older homes. They feature two connections, one for the hot wire and the other for the neutral one. In contrast, three-prong outlets have an extra round-shaped hole where the ground wire is connected. The ground wire is designed to prevent electrical shocks. Essentially, if your home electrical system experiences an unexpected short circuit, the excess current will be safely diverted by the ground wire before it reaches your home’s appliances or outlets. Here’s a look at some of the reasons why a two-prong outlet is dangerous, and the benefits of installing three-prong outlets.
The Dangers of Two-Prong Outlets
Two-prong outlets are considered outdated and dangerous due to the lack of an electrical grounding mechanism. The grounding allows the safe distribution of an unstable electric current. Therefore, when it’s not present, the probability of electrical shocks following ground faults, circuit overloads, and ground faults may drastically increase. Your home’s electrical appliances may also sustain damage if the unstable current manages to reach the outlets they’re connected to. In older homes, the wiring’s protective sheathing may soon begin to wear out, leading to arcing and frequent electrical shocks. This consequently creates an electrical fire hazard.
The Benefits of Upgrading to Three-Prong Outlets
There are wide-ranging benefits to asking your electrician in Hanover to install three-prong outlets in your residence. Two-prong outlets may be loosely connected at times. If a plug isn’t secure, energy waste may occur through the exposed part of the plug. This loose connection can in turn create sparks that may pose as an electrical fire hazard. Replacing these outlets can promote electrical safety in your home. Upgrading to three-prong outlets can also allow you to remedy any damage the existing outlet may have encountered over the years. This can help ensure that the outlets remain functional for a long time to come.
Contact Tim Kyle Electric, an electrician in Hanover, for assistance with installing new outlets in your home. Our residential electrical services will take all of the stress out of powering your home. Let our experts work with you on any project and we guarantee that you’ll be satisfied with the process from start to finish!