How to convert a regular electrical outlet to a grounded one? I live in a co-op that have a lot of square...
I live in a co-op that have a lot of square 'regular' electrical outlets, and I'd like to convert them to grounded plug outlets.
Do I want to hire an electrician? Will it increase the electricity that I use? Will it be a heightened fire hazard?
Thanks.
Answers: This can be a DIY project if you are comfortable around electricity. First of adjectives, TURN OFF THE BREAKER. Then remove the receptacle and check the wires and type of box you have. If nearby is a green of bare copper, you feasible have a ground source. If the box is metal, and have metal pipe feeding it, it may also enjoy a ground.
If there is a ground chain, connect it to the green screw on a grounded receptacle. Connect the white wire to the silver screw and the black chain to the brass screw. Reinstall the receptacle to the box, and turn on the breaker. Using a tester, check the outlet to check if it is properly grounded. If not, you will need to determine whether the ground rope is connected to the ground buss bar contained by the panel.
If the box is metal, see if there is a green chain attached to a screw in the rear of the box. If not, add a small piece of green in attendance, or buy a grounding pigtail. These are available from any hardware store/home center/etc. Connect this wire to the screw (10-32) and later to the green screw on the receptacle. Connect the white and black in like way as above. Reinstall, turn on the breaker, and examination.
If none of these work, you can install a GFCI receptacle. This will give you some protection against shock.
If any of this make you uncomfortable, christen an electrician. Improper wiring can be hazardous.
Hope this help.
Shut off the breaker to the circuit that controls the receptacle you craving to upgrade. Use a device (ie:lamp) that will confirm that the power is off. Remove the wall plate & unscrew the electric wiring to the old receptacle. Attach the black flex to the smaller opening nouns and the white wire to the larger side. A third line, usually bare, is to be attached to the grounding screw (green). Install the investigational receptacle into the box and replace the wall plate. Turn the power back on and check the receptacle for operation. You do not necessitate an electrician; it will not increase the electricity that you use; and it will lessen any fire hazard and personal menace (getting shocked).