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Why Do You Need A Grounded Electrical System?

When you have a grounded electrical system you are more safe from many electrical dangers than if it is left ungrounded. Your grounded system is designed to send any excessive electricity out into the ground in the case of a malfunction or other electrical problem. This will not only protect your guests and family from shock, but also your appliances and electronics.

Is there a good way to check your system for grounding? If your home was built before 1950, it might be grounded. If it was built after 1950, it is most likely grounded. If you have any doubts, or just want to make sure, please call our office for a free consultation.

Are My Three-Pronged Outlets Grounded?

Although three-pronged outlets give your home the appearance of a grounded system, it does not always mean that it is grounded, or grounded properly. The third prong is there so that electronics can be grounded if your system is properly grounded.

If your electrical system has a ground wire, metal conduit, or other grounding device that will direct any extra power into the ground, then it is grounded. It is possible that an amateur installed three-pronged outlets into an ungrounded system. This can give the appearance of a grounded system that is not actually grounded.

In addition to the above scenario, it is possible for a previously grounded system to become ungrounded as a result of wiring mistakes. You should always have a licensed electrician test your system so that you know for sure. Give us a call to get a free home safety inspection.

Benefits of Grounding Electrical Wiring

Protect Electronic Devices – Grounding is not only important to the safety of those who live in your home, but also for the safety of your electronic devices. When left ungrounded, an electrical system can acquire built up charges, which can cause slow but persistent damage to your electronics. This can shorten the lifespan of your appliances and devices without you noticing until it’s too late.

Protect Your Family – Electricity travels through the shortest path available.  In the case of a malfunction in one of your electronic devices, this could mean moving from the device to your hand or arm. This type of electrical shock could cause serious injury or death. If your system is grounded, and your device plugs into a three-pronged plug, the excess electricity will be diverted into the ground where it can cause you no harm.

Ground is Required for Surge Protection – Plugging your valuable electronics into a surge protector can help save them from catastrophic damage in the event of a power surge. Power surges can be a result of power returning after an outage, unforeseen electrical events or even appliances turning on and off within your electrical system.

However, despite the fact that you have your electronics plugged into your surge protector, it will offer no protection if it is plugged into an ungrounded system. Most suppressors are designed to fail in the case of a surge, and then funnel the excess electricity through the ground connection. If there is no working ground, the electricity has nowhere to go but into your electronics.

If you would like more information on surge protectors and Whole House Surge Protectors, click here.

Providing The Highest Protection For Electronics and Appliances

If you would like to give your appliances the highest level of protection, you should make sure that you have both a grounded electrical system and a Whole House Surge Protector. Because the majority of all electrical items now have sensitive sensors and other electronics on them, they are more susceptible to power surges than ever before. Although these sensors can be very convenient, they may require more frequent replacements if your system is not properly protected.

For more information on grounding your electrical system or installing a whole house surge protector, please call to talk with our in-office technician.

Grounding Electrical Wiring in San Diego
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