Top Arguments for Switching to Three-Prong Plugs

The typical homeowner can benefit from a number of different types of electrical upgrades done by residential electrician Sydney. The conversion of two-prong to three-prong outlets is a simple yet useful improvement that is often overlooked by homeowners. There are a number of compelling arguments in favor of this relatively minor modification. 

Insufficient foundation 

By providing a discharge path for stray energy and providing surge protection for appliances and electronics, ground wires help to prevent damage to people and their belongings caused by electrical faults and surges. If you have a ground, any energy from a surge or fault will travel through it to your electrical panel. When the electrical current becomes too great, a fuse blows or the circuit breakers trip, cutting power and preventing any damage. Once the electricity has travelled under the foundation of the house, it has dissipated safely. 

Simple two-prong outlets offer no surge protection because their wiring isn't grounded. 

Electrical outlets with only two prongs are not approved. 

Considering that the cost to upgrade a home's electrical system can range from 5 to 15 percent of the property's value, many people simply cannot afford to do so. Therefore, homes with only two-prong outlets do not need to upgrade to three-prong outlets in accordance with newer regulations. However, there are still safety requirements that aren't being met by these plugs. 

Newer buildings must comply with updated electrical codes that mandate the installation of grounded outlets. Additionally, a ground-fault circuit interrupter is required for any outlets that are close to a plumbing fixture (GFCI). This part prevents electrical shocks in homes by breaking the circuit if a short circuit is detected. In this situation, GFCIs can prevent deaths from electrical shocks, but a standard two-prong outlet lacks this safety feature. 

Insufficient current 

Prior to 1965, most homes had fuse boxes with 30 or 60 amp breakers. Fuse boxes rated at only 30 amps are limited to providing 120-volt wiring, which is insufficient for modern appliances. Even though they have a 240-volt wire, 60-amp panels present a problem because they are insufficient for today's electrical needs. 

Therefore, modern appliances may overtax older electrical systems, leading to overheated wires and blown fuses that pose a fire risk. Due to the high energy consumption, fuses must be frequently replaced if their amperage is insufficient to power modern appliances. 

Eliminate Potential Threats to Your Safety 

The two-prong variety of electrical outlets is not only out of date, but also more dangerous than the more modern three-prong types. A two-pronged outlet isn't designed to handle the current draw of today's appliances, which can cause the electrical system to fail. 

Contact a reliable electrician about upgrading these parts to avoid costly repairs down the road. The danger of electrical shock and fire can be greatly reduced by switching to three-prong plugs. 

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