Electrical codes change as safety standards, electrical devices, and appliances change. As a result, you may notice some key differences between new buildings and old ones. One common difference is in the outlets; some older buildings will still have the two-prong outlets with which they were built. These two-prong outlets have two slots and were the norm before grounding became a safety standard. However, the codes have changed over time to account for the new safety standard, and all new-construction homes nowadays will come with three-prong outlets.
Staying compliant with the latest electrical codes is just one reason to upgrade your two-prong outlets. We’ll cover the advantages of three-prong outlets and share some potential upgrades for two-prong outlets.
Why Are Two-Prong Outlets a Problem?
Two-prong outlets were fine for the longest time, so why and how did they become an issue that needs to be dealt with?
We’ve simply found safer technologies and installation methods. The three-prong outlet has another round slot on the bottom that the two-prong outlet lacks, and this slot exists for grounding. Grounding provides a path for excess electrical current to flow to the earth, reducing the risk of electric shock or fire. Grounding is a key part of electrical assemblies. As a result, most electrical codes have been updated to account for this safety feature. Two-prong outlets are no longer code-compliant.
We’ve also seen the rise of devices and appliances that require three-pronged outlets. Computers are great examples; most laptops nowadays connect to a battery, which has a three-prong plug that goes into the wall. Add television screens, extension cords, power strips, and a whole lot more to that list. You wouldn’t be able to use those items without a three-prong outlet or adapter.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Two-Prong Outlets
Even if you don’t want to replace two-prong outlets for the benefits of a three-prong outlet, there are some telltale signs of when an outlet needs to be replaced for safety reasons.
Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers indicate that there is excessive current that isn’t just a one-off event. Loose wiring or damaged contacts inside the outlet will often cause fuses to blow or breakers to trip. These are safety risks since the electricity can take an undesigned path and potentially injure someone or cause a fire. If you keep replacing fuses or resetting tripped breakers for a particular outlet, it’s time to have a professional look at the problem and fix it. On that same note, look out for signs of wear, discoloration, or sparks on your outlets; they indicate similar issues. These reasons also apply to three-prong outlets.
Then, of course, you’ll want to replace your two-prong outlet if you have electronic devices or appliances with three-prong plugs. You could use an adapter, but the safety benefits alone are worth the upgrade.
Safe, Code-Compliant Alternatives
If you decide to upgrade your two-prong outlet, you will get either a three-prong outlet or a GFCI outlet.
Three-prong outlets have a grounding wire for added safety. The only potential downside of installing one of these is that an electrician may need to rewire the outlet if grounding isn’t already present, which could require extra time and money.
Your other option is a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. Even if the additional grounding wire isn’t present, these outlets shut off power immediately when they detect a leak in the electrical current. These devices protect people from getting electrocuted. They are also required by code in rooms where water and electricity are close together, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. You can learn more about GFCIs in a short video by Kalos’s president HERE.
Although most homes in Central Florida nowadays have three-prong outlets, some may still have the two-prong configuration. Even if yours are still working fine, you may want to consider getting an upgrade for the safety benefits (or just to use that fancy new TV or computer). Three-prong outlets and GFCIs are much safer options that can protect homeowners from electrical injuries, such as from electric shock. In any case, grounded outlets will always be safer than ungrounded ones.
