Fixing Ungrounded Outlets - An Alternative Option to Rewiring Your Home

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  • čas pƙidĂĄn 9. 05. 2019
  • Older homes usually have two-prong outlets instead of today's standard three-prong outlets that include a ground wire. Instead of rewiring your home to correct this issue, there is another cheaper way by installing GFCI Outlets on the first outlet in a run.
    NOTE: I am not an electrician, nor do I claim to be. Make sure you follow all appropriate safety precautions and electrical codes. Do not attempt this yourself if you are not comfortable working with electricity.
    Circuit Breaker Panel Guide: geni.us/Gi9U
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    ==Tools Used==
    Outlet Tester: amzn.to/30aHjxL
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    Drill: amzn.to/2VsK3rS
    As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Komentáƙe • 1,4K

  • @TopHomeowner
    @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +12

    Check out these other related videos...
    Upgrading Two Prong to Three Prong Outlets: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html
    How to Wire a GFCI Outlet - What's Line vs Load? czcams.com/video/Uop79H_iqoQ/video.html
    Electrical Outlet Wiring - Home Wiring 101 czcams.com/video/Dukmv88HXI0/video.html
    All Top Homeowner Electrical Videos: czcams.com/play/PL4VC0S4HJFr5aDUJSASj9Sji43-YODAC6.html

    • @johnmcook1
      @johnmcook1 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      You have to install them on every one as there is no ground wire. If you use a grounded device it has to have a gfci on that receptacle

    • @johnmcook1
      @johnmcook1 Pƙed 2 lety +4

      You are wrong guy > The NEC does not allow a three-prong outlet to be installed on a non-grounded circuit unless the circuit is GFCI protected. An electrician can install a GFCI breaker in the panel or a GFCI receptacle at the outlet.Dec 23, 2021 The sticker goes on the outlet with the gfci only. You can not protect other outlets with a gfci receptacle when there is no ground.
      You have to install a gfci in every one you with to use grounded devices in. That sticker on the other one is incorrect and you cant just install a grounded plug there. You video is not correct on the NEC as an electrician i have done these jobs and you are wrong and what you are telling people is wrong. Go buy a gfci woodhead ( tester ) they look like your tester and check the other outlets they will NOT trip the gfci which means you are NOT to code.

  • @MasteringHow-To
    @MasteringHow-To Pƙed 2 lety +71

    Love how your wife laughed when she caught your mistake and you tried to play it off! Hahaha so good.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 2 lety +7

      Haha yes she is my sanity check...there may be a few videos with her in the background laughing.

    • @james77011
      @james77011 Pƙed 2 lety +4

      😂 dude forgot he turned the power 📮

    • @frankpaya690
      @frankpaya690 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      The receptacle looked like a little face and the wires (line and load) coming out of the box looks like a person, with they're arms and legs out, jumping in the air.

    • @mithramusic5909
      @mithramusic5909 Pƙed rokem +2

      Better to forget it's off than on!

  • @Brian420687
    @Brian420687 Pƙed 3 lety +13

    Sometimes on older houses and by sometimes I mean often if you have metal junction boxes they are indeed grounded they ran a completely different wire to the back of those boxes so if you actually test it it may be grounded and if they are all you need to do is pigtail from the switch to the junction box but if you have a metal box check it you may very well be grounded

  • @Mike14401
    @Mike14401 Pƙed 3 lety +4

    Great siumple explanation.
    I did not realize that the GFCI. protects the rest of the run.
    Thank you.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +2

      Glad this was helpful! I put together a couple other videos that talk about this too if you are interested:
      How to Wire a GFCI Outlet - What's Line vs Load? czcams.com/video/Uop79H_iqoQ/video.html
      Follow-up to this video: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @CAndrewNelson
    @CAndrewNelson Pƙed 3 lety +3

    Thank you sooooo much for this video! Oh, if only I had access to this information 20 years ago when we bought our house. LOL! But it is very useful info now. I'm going to go around the house and install a GFCI outlet in each room as you outlined. Blessings to you!

    • @SwingboyPA
      @SwingboyPA Pƙed 3 lety +6

      Much easier to swap circuit breakers for dual protection AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers -but in either case, have an electrician do it.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Glad it was helpful! I made a follow-up video to this one if you are interested: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @johnwallacemcclure1143
    @johnwallacemcclure1143 Pƙed 3 lety +10

    Great video, can hardly wait to implement your plan. I was very apprehensive about having to rip the lathe and plaster apart in an investment home I just acquired. Your presentation was exemplary. Thanks so much!

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +3

      Glad it was helpful! I know you posted this a while back but I actually put together a follow-up video that you might be interested in where I answer a lot of the comments from this one: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @ronmizo
    @ronmizo Pƙed 2 lety +13

    You should use your voltage detector on a known live outlet first, then test the outlet you will be working on. Alternatively, plug a lamp into that outlet before flipping the breaker off. Otherwise, if the tester is broken you will be in for a nasty surprise. Generally a small bedroom has all outlets on the same circuit, do not assume this is true. One of my bedrooms has outlets on two separate circuits, I wasn't previously aware of it but discovered that when teaching my son to check each outlet before working on it.

  • @Oldcrankcase
    @Oldcrankcase Pƙed rokem +4

    The most upstream outlet in a room is not necessarily the first outlet on a circuit. It is likely the beaker serving this room provides power to other rooms and hallways. Thank you for including these other links. Viewers would be well served to view them.

  • @vl4n7684zt
    @vl4n7684zt Pƙed 4 lety +194

    To be code compliant, be sure to put the "no ground" sticker provided with the GFCI on the faceplate if you are replacing 2-prong un-grounded outlets. GFCI does not protect by grounding, but by tripping.

    • @TheZGALa
      @TheZGALa Pƙed 3 lety +6

      Thank you for the clarification of that.

    • @lj2991
      @lj2991 Pƙed 3 lety +5

      The GFCI outlet should be grounded so it properly works when there's a short on the line.

    • @RP-gi4ch
      @RP-gi4ch Pƙed 3 lety +20

      @@lj2991 - A GFCI does not need a ground to work properly.

    • @bob19611000
      @bob19611000 Pƙed 3 lety +11

      Yes, its not code if the sticker isn't on it. Plus the downstream ones should have that and the "GFI protected"; both stickers come with the plug. Lastly it should be noted that modern electronics (computers, TVs, etc) won't have the same protection as a fully grounded plug, that is surge protector circuitry probably won't work.

    • @jimmytate7587
      @jimmytate7587 Pƙed 3 lety +4

      ground only is to protect equipment. it doesn't protect people

  • @randyfrazier5725
    @randyfrazier5725 Pƙed 3 lety +107

    Licensed Journeyman Wireman here. The GFCI should be on the first receptable from the panel. The "room" has nothing to do with it.

    • @nvgvup84
      @nvgvup84 Pƙed 3 lety +6

      He does mention “on the run, in the room” a few times. It’s a bit of an odd phrase given that most homes (especially ones that don’t have ground!) Wouldn’t have a run for every room but it halfway checks out.

    • @justice4scalia846
      @justice4scalia846 Pƙed 3 lety +10

      Wiring style now is to wire from outlet to outlet. Wiring style then was to wire to a central light and wire down to each receptacle from there. Precludes a gfci protect a whole circuit, you have to put one at every receptacle. You then have to consider a panel Full of gfci breakers. Then you realize that we have few(none) problems in homes with ungrounded homes, we are trying to address a problem that really doesn't exist. Who are we trying to please? Insurance companies.

    • @anonamouse5917
      @anonamouse5917 Pƙed 3 lety +4

      Wouldn't GFI breakers be even better?

    • @randyfrazier5725
      @randyfrazier5725 Pƙed 3 lety

      @@anonamouse5917 GFI breakers would be fine. Cost is usually a factor. I just priced a GFI breaker at HD for $40 a breaker. A pack of 4 GFI outlets run around $55. Either way is perfectly fine.

    • @randyfrazier5725
      @randyfrazier5725 Pƙed 3 lety +5

      @@justice4scalia846 Who are we trying to please? The homeowner and the people in the home. This is done to solve a problem; which is trying to plug a 3 prong plug in a house with 2 prong receptacles. And as a benefit, the receptacles (but not any light switches upstream) are a little bit safer.

  • @Mothernature11195
    @Mothernature11195 Pƙed 9 měsĂ­ci +2

    This is such a great video! You explained everything in detail and very thorough. Thank you!

  • @bgarrison67
    @bgarrison67 Pƙed 4 lety +15

    To whom it may concern. This is not intended to ground the circuit which is required of many devices for protection and functionality. Putting a gfci on the line side of a circuit allows you, by code, replace 2 prong outlets with modern 3 prong HNG outlets which allows you to plug in devices without those 3 to 2 prong adapters. The greater benefit is in case of you becoming the ground it will cut the power to that circuit and hopefully you won't die.
    Unfortunately routing existing circuits is usually never that straight forward especially in older buildings. And also code requires nowadays for the outlets should be wrapped with tape across the terminals and mounted inside a box extension when they are mounted in a metal box... especially in wooden paneling. And always use the screws not the lazy mans quick connect and if you have 3 pairs of wires, pig tail 'em.

    • @donaldhinson7144
      @donaldhinson7144 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Where in the NEC does it say thay? Hmmmm?

    • @zocalo1990
      @zocalo1990 Pƙed rokem +3

      I do all of that,for safety and good practices, also ,the job is done in a more professional presentation.,

  • @saabtech3510
    @saabtech3510 Pƙed 4 lety +77

    This is a good option in older homes. GFCI outlets are significantly more expensive than regular 3 prong outlets, so use one GFCI "upstream" of the other outlets in each circuit. One thing to be aware of is many older homes like my 1949 home are not wired with all the outlets in one room on the same circuit. In fact, no room in my house is wired that way. For example, there may be one of the outlets in the living room, another above it in a bedroom etc. So, I made a booklet of circuit diagrams by going circuit by circuit turning off the power and seeing which outlets and lights had no power. I also traced the exposed wires in the basement to get an idea of which outlet was first in the circuit. The kitchen and also the washer/dryer area were the only grounded circuits. The rest of the 2 prong outlets in the house I upgraded to 3 prong, protecting them with a GFCI at the start of the run, and attaching proper labels them. A lot cheaper than rewiring your house, but providing ground related safety without a ground wire.

    • @terrythomas790
      @terrythomas790 Pƙed 4 lety +16

      Or you can replace the actual breakers to GFCI breakers. It will protect everything on the circuit that breaker feeds

    • @ronaldcarson4360
      @ronaldcarson4360 Pƙed 4 lety +11

      @@terrythomas790 If your place has breakers.

    • @UpnorthHere
      @UpnorthHere Pƙed 4 lety +7

      @@ronaldcarson4360 If it doesn't have breakers, have an electrician install a subpanel for the necessary GFCI or AFCI breakers.

    • @tonymanero5544
      @tonymanero5544 Pƙed 3 lety +6

      1949 home with different circuits in same room. It’s better to have that you room is served by 2 circuits with double the amp capacity of 1. Running a vacuum on one circuit and you won’t trip another outlet like the Window AC.

    • @ethelryan257
      @ethelryan257 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      @@terrythomas790 Very often not possible.

  • @edwardfry2594
    @edwardfry2594 Pƙed 4 lety +35

    In the gfci breaker bos are stickers saying "No Equipment Ground." Code requires use of them on both receptacles!

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Great point. I made a follow-up video that talks about this and answers some other questions here: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @mcruzer82
    @mcruzer82 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I love that giggle at the beginning since you cut the power already
 lol this video was super helpful though. Thank you!

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Trying to keep things real! Glad the video helped

  • @swat4hire
    @swat4hire Pƙed 3 lety +2

    I've watch videos all day and so far this is the best one! It makes sense as to why half of my kitchen no longer has outlets that work and probably because the new outlet with that protection was put on the 2nd to last out that in the string
    The wiring starts with a switch at my kitchen counter to a plug on my kitchen counter for 2 things to be plugged in like a microwave and a phone and then the Plug for the garbage disposal no longer works which is where I put the plug your talking about
    Mind you before that didn't work I replaced and outlet in the middle of the 3 I mentioned with just a regular plug and it doesn't work help

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      Thanks for watching! I have a couple other videos that talk about GFCI outlets if you are interested:
      How to Wire a GFCI Outlet - What's Line vs Load? czcams.com/video/Uop79H_iqoQ/video.html
      Also, I just published a follow-up to this one answering the biggest questions: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @augustaking8
    @augustaking8 Pƙed 3 lety +9

    99% of the time it will be the outlet closest to the power panel and if you have open space like a basement below you may be able to fish a ground wire down and the surge suppressors have something to drain to. Check with your local electrical inspector. Retired IBEW 292.

  • @TomCee53
    @TomCee53 Pƙed 2 lety +7

    I never leave wires open, even for a few minutes. I would cover the wires with either a wire nut or a fold of electrical tape. Since it’s temporary, I just cut the tape to about 2 inches, lay it over the end of the wire, and fold it back on itself. Makes it easy to remove.

    • @nealjt13
      @nealjt13 Pƙed 10 měsĂ­ci

      Ha. I change them out live đŸ€·đŸ»â€â™‚ïž.

    • @TomCee53
      @TomCee53 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      I’m not saying I don’t change them out live, I just don’t walk away with them live. I’d hate to get interrupted and someone else not realize it was live. Very slim chance, but better safe than sorry. 😱

  • @rmf11699
    @rmf11699 Pƙed 2 lety

    I wish I'd found your channel several years ago. Good information!

  • @byron2521
    @byron2521 Pƙed rokem

    This was very helpful. I might have a sort of unique situation and did not know if I was good or not. I have a large window unit AC connection that is 30 amp. The outlet is one that was installed just to handle that AC unit, so nothing else runs from that outlet (nothing upstream in series). I checked the outlet with a tester and found out it was not grounded. The AC unit itself has one of those breakers that has the green light on the plug which effectively acts like a GFCI breaker. My home is an older home and there have been a couple of after construction wiring to handle modern appliances. Another example is the dryer outlet was wired after the home was constructed. Testing the outlets, I found that all the regular 15-amp outlets were grounded. So, my understanding is that this AC unit is not dangerous.

  • @willdwyer6782
    @willdwyer6782 Pƙed 4 lety +167

    Do not backstab your outlets and switches. Use the screw terminals.

    • @williameisenberg1999
      @williameisenberg1999 Pƙed 3 lety +12

      Will Dwyer Always better to use screw terminals ,but it is legal to back stab ..

    • @jenvahle
      @jenvahle Pƙed 3 lety +5

      Legal yes, but so often the wires are over sized for the holes, forced in, and damage the outlet/switch

    • @erikj.2066
      @erikj.2066 Pƙed 3 lety +7

      Found several occasions where the two minute shortcut of using the quickie push in has eventually caused a loss of power in one or more of the outlets further down in the circuit.
      Nothing beats the positive crimped connection of the screw terminals.

    • @royalway12
      @royalway12 Pƙed 3 lety +7

      In life, it's best to avoid backstabbers. "They smile in your face, all the time they wanna take your place, backstabbers"

    • @danlux4954
      @danlux4954 Pƙed 3 lety +4

      @@jenvahle and they are very difficult to remove when changing an outlet or switch.

  • @ghostridergale
    @ghostridergale Pƙed 3 lety +70

    One thing you should know is to never use those quick connect holes on the back of the plugs! Those holes only have a small thin piece of metal on each side that grabs your wire and has hardly any contact being made which in turn causes excess heat. Over time these will get worse for having a good connect from being too hot, especially if there’s a heavy load drain on the plug in and it will fail and burn thru. I have replaced many of these plugs over the years that have been plug in these holes that failed and the plug and wires are burnt and the box inside often shows burnt marks as well. It’s a huge fire hazard using these electrical holes. You should alway and I do mean ALWAYS wrap your wires around the screws having enough of the wire insulation cut off so plenty of the bare wires is making as much contact with the screws as possible to have the absolutely best contact they can get! Talk to any license electrician and they’ll tell you the same thing I am here! I’m not a electrician, but I’ve been a contractor for over 18 years and have worked along side many electricians over the years and have had more then one electrician warn me to never use those quick connections holes on the plugs! Big NO NO!

    • @kasumi1245
      @kasumi1245 Pƙed 3 lety +3

      Good information thank you!

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +4

      I made a follow-up video that talks about this and answers some other questions. You can watch it here: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

    • @johndoen3751
      @johndoen3751 Pƙed 2 lety +13

      quit spreading misinformation . I am an electrician and have seen just as many outlets burned out with wires on the terminals only. if this was true it wouldn't have passed UL testing. when you actually get a certification then you can talk.

    • @After_Tech_Industries
      @After_Tech_Industries Pƙed 2 lety +2

      @@johndoen3751 the situation described by "op" is if a constant (maybe 14amp) load is present then it will over heat, but everything can fail with fatigue. It's like part 15 of the fcc regulations.

    • @vishaalmohamed1681
      @vishaalmohamed1681 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      Yes pigtail everything

  • @JimBurwellsPetiquetteHouston

    Excellent descriptive video. Thanks for that!

  • @chrisrojice7475
    @chrisrojice7475 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Pretty informative, I didn't know this . Thank you

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Thanks for the comment! I put together a follow-up video as well that you might be interested in: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @mv-db4463
    @mv-db4463 Pƙed 4 lety +60

    When you have exposed wires (7:10) you should wire nut / cap them and then turn on the power. This will prevent any accidental arcing or shorting should someone or a pet "tamper" with the wires once you turn on the power. Next, use your tester to test the wire sheathing to find the hot wire(s). I heard little kids voices in the background so this is just another safety measure for anyone in the house that might accidently touch the wires when you turn the breaker back on.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +5

      Great point! I talked about this in my latest video. It's here if you're interested: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @donnavonduong1204
    @donnavonduong1204 Pƙed 4 lety +48

    LMAO "because... we killed the power to the outlet...!"

  • @1969mmendoza
    @1969mmendoza Pƙed 3 lety

    Finally a video that I can understand...thanks!

  • @tundramanq
    @tundramanq Pƙed 3 lety +2

    As the third owner of an older double wide mobile home with signs of DIY electrical work. I sounded out all outlets on each breaker before putting in the GFI outlet your way but did the trip test on all the circuit outlets as I have multiple rooms on common circuits and multiple outlet circuits in some rooms. This may have been allowed by 1981 Colorado MH code and DOT code. Just a heads up that mulitple codes create confusion. LOL at least my outlets and lighting circuits are independent and I now have detailed breaker labels on the main panel.

  • @benexmartsmarthome402
    @benexmartsmarthome402 Pƙed 3 lety +3

    ok~i had learned more,thank you.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      Sure thing! I actually put together a follow-up video that clarifies some of the questions others have posted too: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @williamweckel8140
    @williamweckel8140 Pƙed 4 lety +95

    Another option is to replace the breaker with a combination arc-fault and ground-fault breaker. AFCI+GFCI. A little more costly, but easier to implement.
    Another note, since I AM and electrician... The stab-in connections on the backs of switches and duplex outlets are for 14 guage wire only and are NOT recommended to be used. These WILL cause problems down the road! Always use the side screw terminals.

    • @robertlaw9960
      @robertlaw9960 Pƙed 4 lety +4

      Thank you for your input from a clueless individual myself I am learning something new all of the time from comments or videos. Thanks again William it is greatly appreciated.
      Stay Blessed

    • @tonymanero5544
      @tonymanero5544 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      The new cheap outlets have screws pressure tabs that bite into the back wires. I tried pulling them out and couldn’t if the screws are tighten which put pressure on the tabs.

    • @jaydee3046
      @jaydee3046 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      Amen to not using the stab-in connections. They get loose over time, and arc. On an older plug where I lived, plugging into one outlet resulted in a "pop" in a playing radio. A stab-in connector was so loose, it was arcing.

    • @jabberman3000
      @jabberman3000 Pƙed 3 lety

      Hey. I'm watching my father install a afci for me and he's plugging in the wires into the back, even though I read him this comment. What kind of problems can I expect in the future? He says the screws on the side don't loosen up enough for him to wire it normally

    • @KStewart-th4sk
      @KStewart-th4sk Pƙed 3 lety

      @@jabberman3000 What gauge of wire is he hooking up? He should have no problem at all if it is 14 or 12 gauge wire! The electrician here says the stab-in connections are crap SO WHO IN THE HELL CAME UP WITH THEM IN THE FIRST PLACE?!! I never use them either. Reminds me of the aluminum wire fiasco where people are NOW TAKING THAT CRAP OUT!!

  • @randelltedford8079
    @randelltedford8079 Pƙed 3 lety +2

    thanks for the info man, it really helped

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      Glad it helped! Because this video has gotten so many comments I made a follow-up video if you're interested: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @projek86
    @projek86 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Thank you for this. So helpful.

  • @whatever-gg2qs
    @whatever-gg2qs Pƙed 3 lety +6

    Thanks i liked the video . can you show the part of you actually putting in the wires and buttoning up the outlet.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +2

      I know this is an old comment but I wanted to let you know I've come out with some follow-up videos recently. This one talks about wiring a GFCI receptacle but doesn't show the process of putting it back in the box. How to Wire a GFCI Outlet - What's Line vs Load? czcams.com/video/Uop79H_iqoQ/video.html I have another video planned for the complete install.

  • @howtodoitdude1662
    @howtodoitdude1662 Pƙed 4 lety +66

    Thanks for sharing. Just a suggestion, wrap electrical tape over the screws to prevent accidental shorting to the metal box.

    • @bgarrison67
      @bgarrison67 Pƙed 4 lety +1

      Yeah. That's in the NEC now.

    • @AdirondackCampingAdventures
      @AdirondackCampingAdventures Pƙed 3 lety

      @@bgarrison67 what code article requires this?

    • @selaxlife7621
      @selaxlife7621 Pƙed 3 lety +10

      @@AdirondackCampingAdventures it's called a courtesy wrap...union electrician here...IBEW Local 11......dont ask any questions just do as your told!

    • @ethelryan257
      @ethelryan257 Pƙed 3 lety +3

      @@AdirondackCampingAdventures It's not a code requirement, but it's very good practice. I require it of all our journeymen. I also don't let them energize without covers in place, no matter how much they dislike it.
      I've had it up to here with the mucho-machos who think 120VAC can't kill you.

    • @juak91
      @juak91 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      @Brian Uehlein believe what you want, but that tape may be the difference between an amateur getting electrocuted or not when he takes out the receptacle to work on it. It is imprudent to advise against this practice since this comment section is flooded with amateurs.

  • @blessedwithchallenges9917
    @blessedwithchallenges9917 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Thanks for the funny, yet helpful video.

  • @JesusMallari1959dec28
    @JesusMallari1959dec28 Pƙed 3 lety

    Thank you for your informational video, keep sharing Sir.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Thanks, I appreciate that! I made a follow-up video that talks about a lot of the comments I've received on this video and answers a lot of questions. You can watch it here if you're interested: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @shazbot10
    @shazbot10 Pƙed 4 lety +192

    I’m no electrician but I think receptacles look more like surprised faces

    • @markramsell454
      @markramsell454 Pƙed 4 lety +8

      I'm pretty sure that outlet was saying, "Oooohh noooo, Mr Bill !!!"

    • @Paint0nBrush
      @Paint0nBrush Pƙed 3 lety

      D=

    • @zakthompson6312
      @zakthompson6312 Pƙed 3 lety +10

      As an electrician, I can confirm, the receptacles do look like surprised faces.

    • @Trohawkk
      @Trohawkk Pƙed 3 lety

      😼

    • @royalway12
      @royalway12 Pƙed 3 lety +3

      Good one, what's the technical term for that. Oh well, your reply takes the cake for being the most TERMINALLY funny.

  • @firewallsniper
    @firewallsniper Pƙed 4 lety +14

    I needed that laugh at 1:41 I liked the video because of it. lol

  • @wendyjohnson7511
    @wendyjohnson7511 Pƙed 4 lety +2

    Very good demo. Glad I watched I was worried about buying a home with this issue

  • @gregsettle9725
    @gregsettle9725 Pƙed 4 měsĂ­ci

    Good video. Concise and to the point.

  • @tonymanero5544
    @tonymanero5544 Pƙed 3 lety +10

    To test for line in, you just disconnect one black and see if the outlet is powered. Be sure to turn off breakers when wiring. If not powered, it’s certain that the other black is the line in.

  • @mikebowers5251
    @mikebowers5251 Pƙed 3 lety +19

    the hot wire you tested does not necessarily mean its the first outlet in the chain. There may still be an outlet "upstream" from the one you installed the GFCI on. It may even be in a different room. That one, as well as any others before the GFCI protected outlet, will be unprotected.

    • @mountainhopper9573
      @mountainhopper9573 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      👍

    • @SwingboyPA
      @SwingboyPA Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Totally agree!
      The accurate way to figure out which is the first receptacle is to map the entire circuit, make sure none of the receptacles have anything plugged into them, make sure all light switches are off, disconnect all the wires on all the receptacles and switches ...and then do a continuity check back to the panel.
      ...Which of course, nobody is going to actually do. :-)
      ...Which is why it's better to figure out which circuit breaker it's on and replace it with a dual purpose GFCI/AFCI circuit breaker. This is the new standard for the 2014 NEC is AFCI protection instead of just GFCI protection. Since you have to change the circuit breaker anyway, there's no point in fussing with receptacles (unless it's broken or something).
      The exception for me would be a kitchen or bathroom upgrade where a standard (grounded or not) receptacle needs to be GFCI protected. I mean, if you get out of the shower in a towel or your in the middle of cooking dinner, am I going to make you go out to the garage or down to the basement to flip a breaker? That is cruel. In that case, AFCI breaker and GFCI receptacle at that location.
      This is based on NEC 406.4 (D) -specifically (D) (2) and (D) (4)

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      You should naturally test the installation. After you are done, press test and verify that all sockets you changed are dead. Then reset it an test that they all work.

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 3 lety

      But if one does not change that outlet then it is not relevant.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Yes, I wasn't very clear on that point in this video. I made a follow-up that talks about this: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @heroknaderi
    @heroknaderi Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Wow very helpful thanks 🙏

  • @chrisowen5497
    @chrisowen5497 Pƙed 4 lety

    Good video! I did the same thing in my wife’s office on the advice of a licensed electrician. Works great!

  • @jedi774
    @jedi774 Pƙed 3 lety +7

    A revolutionary idea I know, but a good fix for “we already cut power to this outlet...” would be to take a few moments to pause recording, turn back on the power, show the test, then cut power again...
    Hell, you could even go back and edit in a clip of testing the power on a different circuit just to illustrate what the procedure and result looks like.
    Nice video... thanks for the info.

  • @dhelton40
    @dhelton40 Pƙed 2 lety +4

    Other than kitchens, I prefer ground fault breakers. Far too often these receptacles end up behind a heavy piece of furniture, like a book case, which makes them difficult to reset. Sometimes people don't know they are there and call an electrician. Put it in the panel.

    • @gizmotony1234
      @gizmotony1234 Pƙed rokem

      can you put them in the panel and not in the wall ??? i have a few receptacle that show open ground and want to put gfi breakers in the panel ...will that work???? thank you

  • @fuyu5979
    @fuyu5979 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Found ur video interesting n helpful to change outlets without ground. Will check if ok to change some outlets to GFCI utilizing ur info. . Thanks for video.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      I made a follow-up video that answers some more questions too if you are interested: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html
      Thanks for watching!

  • @franciscoburgos787
    @franciscoburgos787 Pƙed 3 lety

    Good vid. Easy enough for laymen to follow. Any more than this, you should really hire an electrician

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      Thanks! This video got a lot of comments so I just put together a follow-up video if you are interested: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @brianyoung8999
    @brianyoung8999 Pƙed 3 lety +5

    I love how the tester shows open ground at the end of the vid, and he is happy about that

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      So? What did you expect it to show?

    • @bror8228
      @bror8228 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      @@okaro6595 You clearly donÂŽt understand whatÂŽs the function of grounding...

    • @surferdude642
      @surferdude642 Pƙed 3 lety

      @@bror8228 really? Please explain.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      I made a follow-up video that talks about this and answers some other questions. You can watch it here: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @pappabob29
    @pappabob29 Pƙed 3 lety +3

    This idea ONLY works in houses/locations where the wiring at each outlet provides a "line" and "load" set of conductors. The GFCI device is inserted at the first outlet (nearest the source) in the circuit and protects all the remaining outlets sourced from the "load" pair of wires. MANY older houses were wired using a system called "knob and tube" wiring (that used porcelain knobs and tubes to insulate the wires from the wood framing). With that system, all the splicing that extends the live circuit conductors to additional outlets is done "INSIDE THE WALLS" so each outlet only has two conductors. This means the circuit cannot be interrupted/protected by a GFCI device.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +2

      I agree, for knob and tube there really is only one option and that's rewiring the house. Thanks for your comment!

    • @pappabob29
      @pappabob29 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      @@TopHomeowner
      Unfortunately !! Or, running a ground conductor to each outlet given access to a "crawl" space below the outlets, of course.

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Sure it can, you just need to use only GFCI outlets. The load side is optional.

    • @TotemoGaijin
      @TotemoGaijin Pƙed 3 měsĂ­ci

      @@TopHomeowner Yeah, I'll get right to that as soon as I win the lottery, lol.

  • @demetriusoconnor8149
    @demetriusoconnor8149 Pƙed rokem

    Thank you this was very very helpful

  • @jfarinacci0329
    @jfarinacci0329 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    good info. thank you.

  • @news_internationale2035
    @news_internationale2035 Pƙed rokem +3

    Best option is to run a ground wire.
    Another option is if the breaker panel already uses the metal fresh water pipe as ground, find a pipe close to the outlet that has continuity to there.

    • @maxheadroom8857
      @maxheadroom8857 Pƙed rokem +1

      That used to be legal until plumbers started doing plumbing repairs using PVC, ABS or PEX pipes, breaking continuity to electrical grounding. If you temporarily ground the box to a pipe, you must make sure the continuity is not broken by PEX plumbing splices. If there is such a splice, plumbing code requires a 6 gauge or thicker jumper between the metal pipes to keep the bonding continuous. It is, of course, better to use type L grade copper pipe to repair a water pipe leak on a copper water line.

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 6 měsĂ­ci

      No, do not improvise. This method is up to the code, running wires to pipes is not.

  • @Tigerbythetoe
    @Tigerbythetoe Pƙed 3 lety +19

    A good idea would’ve been to check for a ground inside the metal box with a voltage tester. Very often the metal box is grounded, either by the metal wire jacket or the ground wires themselves but they are attached to the metal box on the outside where they can’t be seen. If you can determine that the box is grounded, then you can install self-grounding outlets. Or do what you saw with the green ground wire in that one outlet you pulled out. A GFCI needs to be grounded to work properly.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +7

      Actually GFCI doesn't need a ground to work: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

    • @alec4672
      @alec4672 Pƙed rokem +5

      A GFCI measures the current going out of the hot and back into the neutral if there's 5ma difference it trips. The ground on a GFCI work the same as any other outlet and doesn't effect the trip function what so ever. Additionally it's against code to use a raceway or a steel/aluminum armor as a ground. They can experience galvanic corrosion and essentially become resistors never tripping the breaker. I found a pump in a funeral home using the bx sheathing as a neutral for years due to a failed solder joint up the line, never tripped the breaker. They'd been turning the pump on with a wooden stick since the 90s.

    • @TomCee53
      @TomCee53 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      Also, just checking for a grounded box may not be enough. A tester may light with a poor ground, but not be enough t trip te breaker if a hot wire hits the boss, if fact a high resistance ground could overheat and cause a fire.

  • @jacobbouchard5130
    @jacobbouchard5130 Pƙed rokem +1

    If your metal electrical box is grounded using a jumper wire as such is fine but only if your box is grounded. You can test if its grounded by touching your multimeter to the live wire and the other to the metal box if you get a voltage reading you are grounded if your meter continues to read 0 Volts than your box is not grounded.

  • @sensusfidelium9510
    @sensusfidelium9510 Pƙed 4 lety +1

    Thank y’all so much for this video!
    Iv got 3 young kids and when they go see there grandparents , which is 4 or more times a week iv been worried about my parents old house that has no grounds.i will def be in stalling these grounds!

    • @ohya101
      @ohya101 Pƙed 3 lety +4

      Just making sure you know, this is not a substitute for a ground. This will not protect your equipment from getting damaged. The only thing this will do, if it senses less power is coming back in then going out, it will turn off the power within 1/40 of a second.

    • @SwingboyPA
      @SwingboyPA Pƙed 3 lety +5

      Yeah, this is not actually providing a ground, but it is safer.
      GFCI protection is safer than grounding in a wet location or anywhere a person could become grounded.
      In the age of plastic boxes and covers, getting shocked by a receptacle is difficult. Touching electricity while grounded is actually much easier. Let's say a toddler sticking something into a socket while touching a radiator: in this situation, grounding would do absolutely NOTHING to protect that child, but GFCI protection would save their life.

    • @phillipsusi1791
      @phillipsusi1791 Pƙed 3 lety

      @@ohya101 Your equipment could not care less if it is grounded or not. The ground is there to protect people from touching the equipment if it has a short and has become hot. The GFCI will essentially do the same thing.

    • @Sparky-ww5re
      @Sparky-ww5re Pƙed rokem +1

      @@SwingboyPA never thought about the toddler sticking something into the outlet while touching a radiator scenario, but that's a valid point, and that's why anytime a receptacle is replaced, with a few narrow exceptions, must be tamper resistant. On the other hand, a gfci on an ungrounded system renders a surge protector unless in the event of a lightning strike, and you can kiss that 50 inch smart TV goodbye.

    • @SwingboyPA
      @SwingboyPA Pƙed rokem

      @@Sparky-ww5re Yep, that's a really good point too. I live in the city where I never used to think about whole house surges because ... It just never happened.
      HOWEVER, as people switch from gas to electrical appliances, our grid is being more and more stressed and consequently, I'm seeing more brownouts, transformer blow ups, and other issues which could damage equipment in a house.
      Before a few years ago, I never even considered installing a whole house surge protection system, but I've changed my mind on this.
      So that's another level of protection that's a really good idea for people in houses -whether their wiring is old or new! :-)
      Thanks, I love having a productive conversation online. It's so much better than the usual pissing contests. :-)

  • @maintman420
    @maintman420 Pƙed 3 lety +8

    Most all boxes with a 2 prong receptacle are not big enough to install a gfci, now you have another code violation. Box count---device, size and number of wires determine the size of the box required. But just stuff and pound it in anyway, n be sure to smash those wires nice n thight.

    • @SwingboyPA
      @SwingboyPA Pƙed 3 lety

      Good point. In that situation, it's better to swap the breaker for a dual protection GFCI/AFCI breaker. :-)

    • @MrBluelock
      @MrBluelock Pƙed 3 lety

      "now you have another code violation" No you don't. The volume allowances for a traditional duplex receptacle and a duplex GFCI receptacle are exactly the same. You need to review box fill calculations.

    • @sparks701
      @sparks701 Pƙed 3 lety

      @@MrBluelock depends on location. We are not allowed to use anything smaller than a 4” box. But we also run conduit. No 1/2 ass romex here

  • @keithb2696
    @keithb2696 Pƙed 3 lety +5

    As of the 2017 NEC, when replacing receptacles you need to comply with tamper resistant receptacles and AFCI requirements. Also the GFCI method will not protect electronic equipment that requires a ground. This method is usually done by house flippers as a cheap fix.

    • @phillipsusi1791
      @phillipsusi1791 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Electronic equipment does not require a ground. It is only there to protect you from being electrocuted if hot becomes shorted to the metal chassis of the device. Under normal conditions, the device is forbidden to allow more than a few mA of current to flow through the ground wire. That is why dryer outlets used to not have a neutral but then had to add one because the manufacturers were too cheap to use a 220v AC/DC power supply for the electronics and instead were returning 120v through the ground wire. This was not allowed.

    • @TheForgottenMan270
      @TheForgottenMan270 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Phillip Susi,
      Grounding wire carries no current. If it was being used as a neutral then it would have a current on it. But three prong dryer plugs have 2 hots (220V) and a ground. No neutral was needed. The reason for neutrals now is because of the other electronics on the device requiring a neutral.

    • @keithb2696
      @keithb2696 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      @@phillipsusi1791 TVSS needs an EGC for proper operation. You want the surge protector to take the hit before electronic equipment.

    • @johnmcook1
      @johnmcook1 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      THE NEC STATES EACH OUTLET MUST HAVE A GFCI RECECTACLE AND A LABEL. WHAT HE IS DOING IS DEAD WRONG.

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 6 měsĂ­ci

      @@TheForgottenMan270 The ground wire does carry the leak current. Typical leak current of various devices (PCs, fridges etc.) are in the order of half a milliampere.
      The old dryer socket used combined neutral and ground. This is far from ideal so it was changed.

  • @abrahamvaro5482
    @abrahamvaro5482 Pƙed 4 lety +1

    You can use (GFCI Dacora) outlet is better for old house or small outlets boxes

  • @richiespeed3565
    @richiespeed3565 Pƙed rokem

    VERY GOOD VIDEO THANKS

  • @Wonka0998
    @Wonka0998 Pƙed 3 lety +3

    I didn't know I just needed one OMG I almost bought a ton of them 😂

    • @CybekCusal
      @CybekCusal Pƙed 3 lety

      @Milan Kraguljac no.. that's only true for grounded wiring. He needs to do all of them because of the lack of ground. Yes I'm licensed

    • @Edaloy27
      @Edaloy27 Pƙed 3 lety

      @@CybekCusal so this video is bull, he installed a gfci in the first outlet in the circuit like you would to any grounded circuit but clearly his circuit was not grounded. This does seem like a quick and dirty fix to me, but is tearing out dry wall to run a ground wire the only legitimate fix? I have a couple rooms like this.

    • @CybekCusal
      @CybekCusal Pƙed 3 lety +3

      @@Edaloy27 you can have two prong receptacles (no ground) or just install gfci in each receptacle box. Both options are code compliant. What's not compliant is a 3 prong receptacle without a ground wire connected.

    • @daveguzman8987
      @daveguzman8987 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      @@CybekCusal Thanks, that makes sense to me.

    • @bentleyhugh
      @bentleyhugh Pƙed 3 lety

      Would have been quicker to just replace all the outlets with GFI outlets.

  • @MAC-ws8fz
    @MAC-ws8fz Pƙed 4 lety +19

    @1:44, wife is giggling and thinking, "you BIG Duffuss!"

  • @terryallen6688
    @terryallen6688 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    You should get the plug in tester that has a ground fault test button integrated into it. My tester is red in color as opposed to yellow. That enables a test scenario at the remote outlet

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 2 lety +4

      Such a tester does nothing if there is no ground wire.

  • @tjsmooth3427
    @tjsmooth3427 Pƙed 3 lety +2

    Use wirenuts and pigtails then use screws on the side for connection
    White wire on silver
    Hot wire on copper colored

  • @joemomma7
    @joemomma7 Pƙed 4 lety +4

    If its bx wire with metal box then pigtail a bond jumper to the box then your outlet will be BONDED with the grounding system of its true all the way back to panel. Armor on the wire can make a good bond but not truly grounded. Put a gfci with the not grounded sticker to identify it

    • @joemomma7
      @joemomma7 Pƙed 4 lety

      @john accettola not grounded, but bonded

    • @UpnorthHere
      @UpnorthHere Pƙed 4 lety

      @john accettola Have never seen any inspector "fail" an electrical installation (at time of sale) that was in compliance with the code in effect at the time of installation. Yes, if it's a "change of use" to a different hazard class, then non-grounded receptacles (and wiring method) may become an issue.

  • @lookingforonetruechristian7396

    You just need to install a AFCI/GFCI breaker in the panel. It will protect the whole circuit without having to determine the "first" outlet.

    • @amckee9496
      @amckee9496 Pƙed 4 měsĂ­ci

      How do you add GFCI breakers to pre-1960's boxes that only have fuses?

  • @johnh5738
    @johnh5738 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Great video, guy. Very informative. I love knowledgeable husband and wife teams.

  • @janhachicho3373
    @janhachicho3373 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    THANK YOU

  • @djg585
    @djg585 Pƙed 4 lety +14

    He didn't actually show the wires being hooked up properly to the installed GFCI! Unbelievable.

    • @loudaddy2001
      @loudaddy2001 Pƙed 4 lety +3

      or the ground process, did I miss it?

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 4 lety +2

      @@loudaddy2001 You just missed the whole point.

    • @Fabyfakid
      @Fabyfakid Pƙed 2 lety

      @8:57 he shows it

    • @djg585
      @djg585 Pƙed 2 lety

      @@Fabyfakid
      He speaks it. He does not show himself actually doing anything.

  • @solarpower2020
    @solarpower2020 Pƙed 4 lety +22

    As a home inspector this will not pass a home inspection. I have found many outlets where people have done this exact same thing. Sure it will protect you the homeowner, as the GFCI will flip with or without a ground, but it will in no way protect the equipment that needs a ground. If fact if you plug something in that requires a ground (i.e. computer, tv, etc.) you can actually void the warranty if it so states that in the manual of your electronic device. Also as a side not I have seen people use these GFCIs (with no ground) and then plug a surge suppressor into the GFCI. This also does absolutely nothing and will not protect the electronic equipment since there is, in effect, no ground. So do this at your own peril and expect to either change these 3 holes (no ground) back to a 2 hole outlet so that there is not a false perception that these have a ground. Or be prepared to rewire your house correctly when you intend to sell. Just my two cents.

    • @solarpower2020
      @solarpower2020 Pƙed 4 lety +5

      Woke up this morning and wanted to say that I am in no way trying to bash this guy on his video. There are lots of things you can do around the house to save money on repairs and be just fine. I just feel that electricity is not something you want to cut corners on. It could not only cause fires but worse kill you or someone else. I haven't watched his other videos but I am sure there are some great things he has that can help a diy'er. Just please be careful when it comes to electrical. Your life is worth more than the money you might save.

    • @ironmartysharpe8293
      @ironmartysharpe8293 Pƙed 4 lety +1

      @@solarpower2020 You are more than absolutely correct , For as dangerous as electricity is , You cannot afford to cut corners , The best solution is to install the proper wiring with the ground wire, If I was wiring a house , The outlets would be on 20 amp AFCI breakers and AFCI/ GFCI breakers where GFCI protection is required , Do it right , Definitely not worth the risk of you and/or your loved ones getting electrocuted from a shock or getting burned to death from a fire ,
      All new circuits must be on arc fault interrupting breakers and where GFCI protection is required , Those circuits must be arc fault protected as well , In wiring a house , I would have the light fixtures separate from the outlets , Also when it comes to outlets and switches , I always use the professional or commercial grade because they're much safer than those cheap outlets and switches that cost a little more than a dollar , Which are way more than worth it , I just did a wiring job for my sister's ladyfriend and her husband , they wanted two outlets installed at the counter top they just had installed in the basement , Which was renovated into a rec room , I put the outlets on a separate 20 amp breaker that has both AFCI and GFCI protection because outlets in the basement require GFCI protection and with new wiring , Must also have AFCI Protection , Afterwards they were really pleased because it was done right with top quality materials and they can use it with confidence , I am very strict about electrical safety and if it's not gonna be done right , I won't do it , I've turned down jobs where they want to cut corners and they had to look for someone else because I won't go there

    • @ironmartysharpe8293
      @ironmartysharpe8293 Pƙed 4 lety +1

      @@solarpower2020 Also if I was a home inspector , I wouldn't pass that inspection either , Installing grounded outlets where there's no ground wire is a violation of The National Electrical Code

    • @jimross2101
      @jimross2101 Pƙed 4 lety +9

      @@ironmartysharpe8293 Cite the code, because you are wrong.

    • @gtfm50
      @gtfm50 Pƙed 4 lety +6

      Home inspectors don't have the correct answer. If you want the correct answer go to your local town and ask to talk to an ELECTRICAL inspector!

  • @paulmazz
    @paulmazz Pƙed rokem +1

    I just sold an older house. I replaced a few ungrounded three prong with two prongs. Much cheaper than GFI’s

    • @tedlahm5740
      @tedlahm5740 Pƙed rokem

      Sure the new occupants would not approve? Out dated system

  • @jd080657
    @jd080657 Pƙed rokem +1

    A GFCI works by comparing the current between the hot wire and the neutral (the proper return path). They should be the same. On a normal GFCI circuit, If a metal part of the item that is plugged into it comes into contact with the hot, this sends some of the return current to ground through the ground wire instead of the neutral wire, and causes it to trip. If however, you wire in a GFCI without a ground wire, then in the above faulty scenario, it will NOT trip until you touch that metal part. It should trip then, but not until you touch it--this is less than ideal. So you definitely should label the outlets as "no ground". Your solution is better than not doing anything, but you don't want to give the impression that you are "protected" like a normally wired GFCI.

  • @raycrazyraysplace4472
    @raycrazyraysplace4472 Pƙed 4 lety +34

    I would never recommend back stab outlets use the screws not the push in. And never with stranded wire.

    • @cinnabarsonar2072
      @cinnabarsonar2072 Pƙed 4 lety +7

      I'm currently replacing outlets which have melted due to failed backstabs.
      People aren't exaggerating when they say it's a fire hazard, so yes, spend the extra time wrapping the wires around the screws or spend the extra money on outlets that use the screw clamp method.

    • @danburch9989
      @danburch9989 Pƙed 4 lety

      I'm somewhat convinced that the powers to be that promote and approve codes are doing it for the money. Years ago, aluminum wire, being cheaper, was sold as the wire of future - until it was found to be a fire hazard. I think the backstab outlets are heading the same way. My house is built cheap (vs inexpensive). There's a lot of foam, sawdust and glue. The garge isn't insulated. I'll be lucky if it outlasts the mortgage.

    • @Belboz99
      @Belboz99 Pƙed 4 lety +4

      had a backstab fail and fry the circuitboard in our furnace... $600 repair because some bloke chimped on a $0.30 outlet.

    • @flinch622
      @flinch622 Pƙed 4 lety +1

      @@Belboz99 Motor loads do not like undervoltages from weak connections: they will pull more current to make their power and things go downhill fast, wherever your loose/dirty connection is. There are voltage monitoring devices you can install to cutout your motor load [by interrupting controls] and also tunable overcurrent monitors - motor savers or protection relays, depending on manufacturer. Things like well pumps and hvac can get saved if you ever have a brownout in your area - but it will not save a motor from itself in the event it goes bad. I like to have an auxilary contact that I can use for a remote indication in case it ever trips [a light or small buzzer] when equipment is awkward to get at [such as an attic unit or remote pump house/station]. Work with your electrician on exactly what you need/can be sourced locally, but here is just one example: www.galco.com/buy/Macromatic/VAKP120A
      Generally, I find setting a protection device at 110% of full load amps for the motor being monitored works well - one unit per motor gives me the best peace of mind. For undervoltage protection settings, 15% under normal line voltage should work ok - this needs a little testing perhaps, to make sure that when large loads kick on the starting current does not trip other units [a delay or 'pickup' setting is available on some units]. Large loads are a comparative term [relating to size of your power transformer], but droop is another subject.

    • @GlitchedPepsi
      @GlitchedPepsi Pƙed 4 lety +3

      Cinnabar Sonar that’s because it was poorly installed. Backstabbing has nothing to do with it. If you follow the directions right and do it correct. You’re fine. Ive seen backstabbed outlets from the 70s still working today.

  • @MrTHEBRITINWA
    @MrTHEBRITINWA Pƙed 4 lety +20

    It is not approved to have changed the original 2 prong ungrounded to a 3 prong . However adding a gfci receptacle is an approved device if adding a label displaying ungrounded outlet.

    • @coypatton3160
      @coypatton3160 Pƙed 4 lety +3

      MrTHEBRITINWA down leg from the gfci is ‘legal’ by NEC to change 2 prong to 3 prong as long as you add the appropriate labels! GFCI PROTECTED & NO EQUIPMENT GROUND

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 4 lety

      @@coypatton3160 It is also legal if you have the GFCI on the electric panel. Then you do not need to use any GFCI outlets. Same rye in marking apply.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      I made a follow-up video that talks about this and answers some other questions here: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @kaloncar
    @kaloncar Pƙed 4 měsĂ­ci

    Excellent video! I am selling my home and found some of my three-pronged plugs are ungrounded and I need my electricity to be up to code.

  • @ricardorendon7047
    @ricardorendon7047 Pƙed 4 lety +1

    nice video!

  • @amerlin388
    @amerlin388 Pƙed 3 lety +8

    Just to be clear, it seems the GFCI and the 'downstream' outlets will all still test as "open ground".
    The GFCI test button must be used to confirm the outlets are safe.

    • @SwingboyPA
      @SwingboyPA Pƙed 3 lety +3

      You are correct; GFCIs add SAFETY, not an equipment ground. So this might protect someone from getting shocked, but it won't stop feedback/static on audio equipment.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +1

      I made a follow-up video that talks about this and answers some other questions here: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @thetishbite5582
    @thetishbite5582 Pƙed 4 lety +17

    PLEASE put wire nuts on the bare wires! You can still read if the wires are hot and avoid getting electrocuted!

  • @DrivinginNewYorkCityNYC
    @DrivinginNewYorkCityNYC Pƙed 3 lety +2

    Yea, I live in a old apartment. Some of the tenants left and those apartments need renovations. The people that was doing told the landlord they need to upgrade all the power to the building. Haha. Used to be if we ask we will get our rent increased. Now every one gets their power upgraded and we now have GROUND. Yahoo. I am very happy. Also, more amps. I started to upgrade my surge protector and power strip for higher wattage. Now I can use portable AC, vacuum cleaner, and high wattage microwave.

    • @michaelhinchey
      @michaelhinchey Pƙed 3 lety

      You do not get more amps from a ground.

    • @michrech
      @michrech Pƙed 3 lety

      @@michaelhinchey You do if the electrical service was properly upgraded...

  • @mohamedalgabyali2390
    @mohamedalgabyali2390 Pƙed rokem

    Thanks.. very helpful ..

  • @dennislett7896
    @dennislett7896 Pƙed 4 lety +3

    Looked to me like one light on in thereafter so still had open ground yeah or nay?

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 4 lety +9

      Of course it had open ground. The whole point was what to do when you have no ground wire.

    • @dlighted8861
      @dlighted8861 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      @@okaro6595 If there is an open ground then a G.F.C.I. won't work properly. They were not made to substitute for a ground.

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 3 lety

      @@dlighted8861 Not again. Why do people make that bogus claim hundreds of times. The functioning of the GFCI has been explained dozens of times in the comments.A GFCI monitors the current between live and neutral. If there is an imbalance more than 5 mA it cuts both those wires. Such an imbalance means that current escapes to the ground, possibly through some person. The ground wire is in no way involved in the operation though grounding can help in creating the fault. If the equipment s grounded the GFCI or even the circuit breaker cuts the power immediately at the fault. If it is ungrounded it might happen only when someone touches it so it could sting but the GCFI prevents dangerous shock. The fact that unless installation is very old sockets in wet rooms are grounded anyway.
      Nobody ck aims that it is a substitute to ground. All new installations need to be grounded. This is just for fixing old installations.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      I made a follow-up video that talks about this and answers some other questions. You can watch it here: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @joejoeaz47
    @joejoeaz47 Pƙed 3 lety +6

    Could've showed us how to wire it back up

    • @TheZGALa
      @TheZGALa Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Yeah, I kinda need to figure out that part too.

    • @lebronjameslol3521
      @lebronjameslol3521 Pƙed 3 lety

      Try the same way you took them out but this doesnt ground anything but it can be useful for updating old outlets with new ones. Granted I know little more than you about electrical.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Yeah I'm sorry about that. I made a follow-up video that covers the wiring piece: czcams.com/video/Uop79H_iqoQ/video.html

  • @reptiledysfunction3519
    @reptiledysfunction3519 Pƙed 4 lety +1

    Great job, thanks!!

  • @andystitt3887
    @andystitt3887 Pƙed rokem

    Some old wiring systems do have a thinner ground wire which is worthless since it has more resistance than 12 or 14 gauge wire and could cause a fire đŸ”„before it causes enough amperage to flow for a short circuit protection device to actuate.

  • @StikyIckie
    @StikyIckie Pƙed 4 lety +20

    Uhhh, your test still came up with no ground at the end there.... what did we accomplish here?

    • @jeremiegrund
      @jeremiegrund Pƙed 4 lety +12

      Adding a GFCI outlet does not give you an equipment grounding conductor. You still have a 2 wire ungrounded circuit. It is against code to install a 3 prong receptacle in a 2 wire circuit unless the receptacle is GFCI. The GFCI gives you some level of protection due to either equipment being damaged, or wiring damage itself.

    • @jaandel1
      @jaandel1 Pƙed 4 lety +2

      @@jeremiegrund what about of you use metal box and screw the ground wire to metal box... its count as grounded???... or in other words use GFI first and start wire from there 3 prong outlet is that correct alternatives???

    • @civildiscourse2000
      @civildiscourse2000 Pƙed 4 lety +3

      @@jaandel1 If I understand your question correctly, the answer is no. As Jeremie Grund said, adding a GFCI outlet does not give you a ground. So there is no point in connecting a ground wire between the box and _any_ receptacle unless there is a ground wire connecting the device box back to the electrical panel. The GFCI just detects current leaving the circuit and going through something other than the load, like a human.

    • @heronimousbrapson863
      @heronimousbrapson863 Pƙed 4 lety +1

      Lighting Guy The point is not to connect a ground, but to provide ground fault protection against current running to ground through your body.

    • @williamweckel8140
      @williamweckel8140 Pƙed 4 lety

      @@jaandel1 Adding a ground wire and attaching it to a metal box DOES NOT make a true ground. A true ground ALWAYS terminates at the breaker panel.

  • @billyrayband
    @billyrayband Pƙed 4 lety +3

    The missing ground wire provides the safety path for the current when a fault occurs, such as a piece of equipment shorting to its case.
    Backstabbing is usually OK for 14 gauge runs with solid wire. Unless an experienced user wraps it around the screws, wrapping is more likely to fail than backstabbing, which is at least idiot proof.

    • @UpnorthHere
      @UpnorthHere Pƙed 4 lety +1

      @billyrayband: yes, but the point of the video is that you don't NEED a grounding wire if you properly install a GFCI receptacle when you replace your ungrounded receptacles with "grounding-type" (three-slot). The GFCI works fine without it and provides ground-fault protection that a mere "grounding wire" won't. For instance, a grounding wire won't save your life when there is a fault in your neutral that opens the neutral and puts it into contact with the appliance enclosure. You could get zapped unless you also have a GFCI.

    • @Nick-bh1fy
      @Nick-bh1fy Pƙed 3 lety

      Dumbest thing I’ve heard. Haven’t heard anyone say wrapping is more likely to fail then a backstab

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 10 měsĂ­ci

      GFCI receptacles are different. They do not have the backstabbing option. The hole sin the back are secured by the screws.

  • @e.romero5528
    @e.romero5528 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I'm buying a house with this same problem good vid I'm definitely goin out to buy some of these so do all no grounded need to be replaced with these

    • @surferdude642
      @surferdude642 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      E. Romero, it depends. Most homes, even older ones typically use pigtails to connect to each receptacle (only 2 wires) instead of jumping from one receptacle to the next as in his example. This is done so that no receptacle has to rely on the previous one for power. So it's often not going to be practical to remove all those connections in order to find the most upstream. If you are not experienced, it would be easy to make a mess of it. So, if your house is wired like this with only 2 wires to each receptacle, then yes, a new GFCI at each outlet, connected to line on GFCI's would do it. It could be somewhat expensive depending on many receptacles you have, GFCI's are about $15 to $20 each. It's still a small price compared to the likely price of the house.
      You also may be able to use a GFCI breaker and not need to mess with the receptacles. If the main panel is very old this may not be an option. Another possible option is to mount a new box and Gfci receptacle next to the electrical panel. You'll need good access to the panel because wire routing is important. The object here is to make this new outlet the first one on that circuit. You'll take the neutral wire from that circuit and connect to load on gfci. Hot wire from breaker to hot load on gfci. Then a new neutral wire from the neutral bus bar to the line neutral on gfci. New hot wire from breaker to line hot on gfci.

    • @e.romero5528
      @e.romero5528 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      @@surferdude642 great thanx for the info yea wht gets me is that I wish I could send you a pic because they put in a 3 prong but was to lazy to make it 3 prongs very disappointed wit these stupid repairs but gota do it thanx again great video

  • @damonlinder5419
    @damonlinder5419 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    This video helped a lot. Now what do you suggest when wiring a new ceiling fan to black 2 wires in an older home?

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Glad it helped! If you only have 2 black wires (and no white) then you'll need to figure out which one is hot with the voltage tester I showed in the video. Just be sure to put wire caps on the wires when testing (i missed that part in this video) so you don't risk getting shocked.

  • @Gamerz00760
    @Gamerz00760 Pƙed 4 lety +7

    @6:24 note the inserted wires...Highly recommend using screws not pushing them in. Please research fires related to inserted wires vs. actual screw mounted wiring.
    I'd hate to see a fire that is absolutely preventable..maybe others know but didn't one of the brands have a recall?

    • @GlitchedPepsi
      @GlitchedPepsi Pƙed 4 lety

      Oh stop crying i see backstabbed outlets lasting longer then you were born kid. Screws are good too but what if you have more wires? You cant put 2 wires on one screw thats code violation

    • @GlitchedPepsi
      @GlitchedPepsi Pƙed 4 lety

      Gamer007 backstabs do not cause fires. Its the outlet. Outlets can catch on fire even with on the screws so if you’re really scared of a fire. Remove outlet and cap everything in wall because all outlets are gonna have risks. Even on screws or backstabs. If backstabbing was seriously dangerous. It would not be allowed on newer outlets. Learn before you talk :)

    • @GUYJO1969
      @GUYJO1969 Pƙed 4 lety

      I will agree that back stabbing receptacles isn’t a good ideal. I’ve been an electrician for over 20 years and every house I have had to replace a burnt/over heated receptacle in has been back stabbed. (Side note, if you have holes in the back that the screw will lock the the conductors in then I don’t have a problem using those holes)
      It isn’t a good ideal to back stab switches either. I think the tension spring breaks down, but it does.

    • @UpnorthHere
      @UpnorthHere Pƙed 4 lety

      @@GlitchedPepsi Good one. "Remove outlet and cap everything in wall". You can do that, but you also need to properly label all capped wires "for future use", or actually snip them back as far as you can, or remove them entirely, to meet national fire code regarding "abandoned electrical wiring".

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      GFCI receptacles use back-wiring, and don't have an option to push in the wire like their cheaper residential grade cousins czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @dogdays2012ify
    @dogdays2012ify Pƙed 4 lety +11

    OK my question is, if you’re using a GFCI outlet you still need a ground that is correctly installed back to breaker box. By adding a ground fault outlet you still need a proper ground to make it work and be safe. So can you explain how you fix the ground when it showed it wasn’t working?

    • @BiffSarin
      @BiffSarin Pƙed 4 lety +5

      Justin, I have two suggestions. One option is to (if they are available for your Breaker Box) replace the standard breaker with a AFCI/GFCI combo breaker. This will connect to the ground in the Load Center and protect ALL outlets on the circuit. The second option, if your Breaker Box is in a fairly hidden area, is to add a GFCI outlet immediately next to the Breaker Box, connecting that circuit from the breaker to the GFCI with new ROMEX, then connect the original branch circuit wiring to the load side of that GFCI.

    • @Raiderloco.13
      @Raiderloco.13 Pƙed 4 lety +3

      justin eben no you don’t !!! To properly install one it only takes two wires so I could be ran without a ground

    • @JeffPenaify
      @JeffPenaify Pƙed 4 lety +7

      Its NEC compliant to replace with a GFI as long as you label it with "no equipment ground"

    • @donski1519
      @donski1519 Pƙed 4 lety

      @@JeffPenaify but it won't protect you if the whole branch circuit does not have a ground.

    • @JeffPenaify
      @JeffPenaify Pƙed 4 lety +1

      @@donski1519 I didnt say smart I said N.E.C. compliant 😂

  • @james77011
    @james77011 Pƙed 2 lety

    Very nice video đŸ‘đŸ“žâ€ïž

  • @KevinBenecke
    @KevinBenecke Pƙed 4 lety +2

    Sometimes even the 2 prong outlets are grounded. They are grounded through the screw that holds the cover plate on. That's why if you use one of those 2-3 prong adapters, that tab should be under the screw which provides the ground. You can test this with a tester with wire by putting one probe in the hot side of the outlet (which is the narrow slot) and then touch the other probe to the screw. If it lights up, there is a ground. That tab isn't their to help hold the adapter in. It is the ground and you can get the ground by putting that tab under the screw. Sometimes there is still a ground even if the 3rd. bare wire isn't their. In some cases a rigid wire (The one that has 2 wires running through a metal sheath.) is used. The metal sheath provides the ground as long as its clamped into a metal box. The metal sheathing provides the ground. If there is no ground, the circuit breaker panel may not have the bonding screw installed which grounds the box to the neutral/grounding bus bars. If you are uncomfortable with electric at this point, get a qualified electrician to open the panel and fix this problem.

    • @gregberban9273
      @gregberban9273 Pƙed 4 lety

      Is not that simple. If you have a 3-wire system, an wanting a 4-wire system it's going to require new panel, feeder. outside panel.

    • @56243G
      @56243G Pƙed 4 lety

      Just because a box is metal doesn't mean it's grounded. Those adapters that are supposed to touch the screw for the plate are stupid, because if the receptacle only has two holes, the box is not grounded anyway.

    • @UpnorthHere
      @UpnorthHere Pƙed 4 lety +1

      @@56243G Not only that, not all two-prong receptacles are "polarized", so you can't tell (by looking at its face) which terminal is hot.

    • @maxheadroom8857
      @maxheadroom8857 Pƙed rokem

      @@UpnorthHere my home has 2 prong outlets, but the holes are polarized. One hole is bigger. The house has most of its original outlets. I replaced a few with new 2 prong outlets, but most are still original. I replaced my grounded bath outlet with a 20 amp GFCI. Since my house only has 1 breaker box and no sub panels, I can borrow grounds from grounded boxes to bond my ungrounded fixture & receptacle boxes legally per NEC rules. My garage is detached, and is also GFCI protected.

  • @dynamicdopamine
    @dynamicdopamine Pƙed 4 lety +4

    Was it just me forget that one black hot wire on that first receptacle look like it was chewed up or had gotten hot at one time or another? If that is the case I just about bet you it's because those Outlets are stabbed in the back of the receptacle and not around the screw like they're supposed to be! That's just my opinion

    • @civildiscourse2000
      @civildiscourse2000 Pƙed 4 lety

      Baked or melted insulation? Yep, seen it many times. Especially on the first outlet on the circuit, which has to carry all the current for the downstream outlets on the circuit. Replacing one of these is the most common fix in a modular or trailer home where they routinely use those devices.

  • @pcno2832
    @pcno2832 Pƙed 4 lety +5

    A GFCI does offer protection similar, though not equal, to that from a piece of equipment with a valid ground connection. But I think any 3 prong outlet should have a valid ground connection, GFCI or not. Some devices need a ground connection not only for safety, but for surge relief, noise reduction or to protect against ESD that can destroy semiconductors. If I find an outlet with no ground connection and can't trace it do an open at some accessible point in the circuit, I just ground that outlet by connecting it to a cold water pipe or, if need be a grounding steak..

    • @Ponlets
      @Ponlets Pƙed 4 lety

      my wall outlet is ungrounded and i have a backup power device (UPS) plugged into it and my PC is plugged into the "battery backup" side of it and without warning it tends to turn off irregularly and regardless of load

    • @Ponlets
      @Ponlets Pƙed 4 lety +1

      @John Connolly that sounds illogical

    • @jeffnorbert1871
      @jeffnorbert1871 Pƙed 4 lety

      For anyone who doesn't understand, a grounding STAKE. A metal rod driven (usually pounded in with a large hammer) into the ground (earth). Ground wire connected to the stake/rod with a clamp. Water pipes can also be used in a similar way. If you don't know how to do this properly, read up on it and test when you're done. Stay safe!

    • @Ryan-hr9hw
      @Ryan-hr9hw Pƙed 4 lety

      @@jeffnorbert1871 A ground rod has nothing to do with equipment grounding or posses the ability to trip a breaker.
      I'd much rather grab the hot on a gfi protected outlet than one on a grounded duplex.

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 4 lety +1

      What you think is not really relevant. It is what NEC says that counts. The text "No equipment ground" will warn the user for that.
      In Europe grounding male on the socket just to allow using grounded plugs on ungrouned outlets (but not the reverse unless the equipment is double insulated). Grounding is to protect people, not for equipment.

  • @loganm9784
    @loganm9784 Pƙed 4 lety +1

    this is extremely helpful, especially the part about running multiple outlets on the same circuit and explaining how the test works

  • @johnford7847
    @johnford7847 Pƙed 3 lety

    Thank you very much.

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      You are welcome! I made a follow-up video to this one as well that answers a lot of the questions in the comments if you are interested: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @JMjayesim
    @JMjayesim Pƙed 4 lety +5

    1:23 looks like a happy face? Looks perfectly pissed off to me lol.

    • @okaro6595
      @okaro6595 Pƙed 4 lety

      In Europe sockets look like they will bite you. They even have teeth:
      upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d0/Steckdose.jpg

    • @cinnabarsonar2072
      @cinnabarsonar2072 Pƙed 4 lety +2

      They look like the face you make right after you stick a knife in a toaster.

    • @gaidhliglass
      @gaidhliglass Pƙed 3 lety +1

      Paredolia ... is the term for affixing human appearances to inanimate objects. Yup, they look like they're in shock.

  • @jingchen9610
    @jingchen9610 Pƙed 4 lety +3

    So after installing the GFCI, all the down stream outlets will still show open ground right?

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 4 lety +3

      Yes, that's correct.

    • @rocketrider1405
      @rocketrider1405 Pƙed 4 lety +8

      Jing Chen They never seem to come right out and say it: A GFCI receptacle doesn’t provide a ground but it does allow you to plug in a 3-prong plug (provided you haven’t exceeded the limit for wattage on the circuit.)
      And you must label the
      outlet ‘No Equipment Ground.’

    • @travisc5840
      @travisc5840 Pƙed 4 lety

      Which is still not grounded... which is still incorrect

    • @TopHomeowner
      @TopHomeowner  Pƙed 3 lety

      I cover this point as well as some others in a follow-up video: czcams.com/video/3AXcRsAOLPk/video.html

  • @lordmxm
    @lordmxm Pƙed rokem

    Great job with the video. How can you tell which one is the first outlet on the run? I have a three floor home so does it start from the top floor down or the bottom floor up?
    Unfortunately my house doesn’t have any ground wires with the outlets and some of the light fixtures. I’m trying to fix these issues without breaking the bank if you know what I mean
 Thank you!

  • @chrisbetts4402
    @chrisbetts4402 Pƙed 4 lety +1

    The real TRICK is to find the first outlet ( the home run ) AND all outlets there after . Circuits are not wired room by room . ALSO a GFCI in an older steel box ( esp with olden angled top n bottom ) can be a TIGHT FIT . Good luck and be safe .