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A grounded receptacle is a power outlet that has the additional third rounded or u-shaped prong for three-pronged plug-in adapters. A grounded receptacle is connected internally to a supporting strap. A grounded receptacle allows electrons to be safely transferred to the ground. This helps prevent any potentially dangerous electrical surges.

Grounded receptacle serves three basic purposes. These are used for fault protection, signal reference and lightning protection. All of these reasons pertain to safety. Electrical ground faults can put equipment out of commission and, in serious cases, can lead to catastrophic fire. A grounded receptacle protects from such hazards.

The ungrounded and polarized electrical receptacle is an old type that is not in use in modern construction. The larger slot connects to the so-called neutral wire and a smaller slot connects to what’s called a hot wire. Earlier electrical devices with two-pronged plugs will fit into this receptacle in only one orientation. In order to change the polarized receptacle into grounded one, you may need to install GFCI receptacle.

But, don’t get dishearten if you don’t have a grounded receptacle. This can be with little efforts and basic knowledge about electricity. The write up in the following part will explore the basics about grounding the existing ungrounded receptacle.

First step is to shut off the circuit. Make sure, there is no power available in the outlet. Now pull out the receptacle and pry out a knockout slug and then twist it back and forth to remove it.

Establish the narrow passage for the ground wire. Run the wire from the box to the service panel or to a cold water pipe. Make use, of fish tapes to lay down 12- gauge green insulated wire.

Making the ground connection would require you take up the wire’s one end to the ground screw of the receptacle. With the help of special grounding clamp, join the other end of the wire to the cold water pipe.

Other than resulting into small faults in the electrical set up, non- grounded receptacle can cause much more complexities like home internal wiring that can harm the electricity, appliances and the home in turn. One can avail the services of an expert if he faces any trouble.

Scott Rodgers is a great author when it comes to extensive electrician works. His commendable talent has been fueling business for a host of workers, ranging from Rockland Electricians to Gaithersburg Electricians .