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    Burrowesville's Avatar
    Burrowesville Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Feb 7, 2011, 09:49 AM
    Replacing 2 prong receptale with 3 prong with no ground wire
    Was wondering how to replace a 2 prong receptacle with a 3 prong one. There is no ground wire running to the box and it is housed in a metal box. The receptacle is downstairs, where I plug in my dj equipment. The house is an older house built iin the 60's.
    ebaines's Avatar
    ebaines Posts: 12,131, Reputation: 1307
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    #2

    Feb 7, 2011, 09:58 AM

    The best way to do this is to replace the old 2-hole receptacle with a Ground Fault Circiut Interupter (GFCI) style of receptacle. Here are some quick instructions:
    How to - Install a GFCI Outlet
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #3

    Feb 7, 2011, 10:09 AM
    Keep in mind, using a GFI will offer protection from a ground fault, however, it does not create an equipment ground, and any equipment that must have a solid equipment ground to operate, such as a surge suppressor, will not operate properly.
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
    Printers & Electronics Expert
    		  
    #4

    Feb 7, 2011, 12:03 PM
    If you need a proper way to fix this circuit you need to run a new cable from the service panel to the receptacle.

    Depending on on the amperage of the circuit (14/2 AWG for 15 amp. 12/2 AWG for a 20 amp circuit)and an equipment grounding conductor. If you are using NM (Romex) cable, the EGC is included inside the cable sheath.

    A GFCI receptacle does no provide a grounded outlet as indicated by TK.
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