I have a house built in 1956 that has older wiring that I would like to bring up to code but am not sure what options to do so are available. The problem each outlet in the house only has two prongs (no ground). I wanted to replace each outlet with a standard three prong outlet but found that the wiring does not have a ground wire (only a hot and neutral). Metal boxes were used but there is no metal conduit connecting each outlet to use as a grounding source. A friend suggested replacing each outlet with a GFCI outlet. Knowing that the outlet is still ungrounded, the GFCI should trip if there is a short so it would provide similar protection as a ground, right? This must be a fairly common issue in older houses. What are the other options to choose from?
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Discover why linseed oil paint is the go-to choice for Fink & Son Historic Restoration.
Related Stories
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
My dad redid our(parents house) house in '58* (built 1914?) with grounded outlets, etc. - he always did love fishing <G>
He redid Grandma's house near same time also, grounds were no problem -- the wiring was all pulled thru the old gas pipes. Anyone else seen this technique, I've never seen it discussed in print?
* makes one wonder if grounded outlets only came into being in '57 or '58, or if your house was built by a cut-corner profiteer? I have not looked at the web and don't remember the advent of grounded outlets precisely.
A GFI (GFCI in the electrical literature.) will NOT trip for a short. Only when the supply and return current differ by about 7 mA. Also if you go this way you only need to GFI the first outlet on the string.
Better to rewire with modern romex. Doing so will give you modern wiring and a sound ground path. The peace of mind alone can be worth it. This frequently can be done in sections starting with the most loaded, used, circuits. Kitchen circuits are a good start. A new circuit dedicated to the computer is also a good idea. Without a good ground a surge arrestor, you do use a surge arrestor don't you, will not work.
This will be easiest if there is an attic and crawl space to get close to each outlet. Sometimes it is easiest to remove the old boxes, a Sawsall or grinder with a metal cutting disk helps, so that there is more room to feed and grab the new cables. New boxes, old work type, are more likely to comply with box fill and are fairly easy to install with an included mechanism or sheet metal box supports.