Are Plug Adaptors Safe To Use?
Plug adapters are convenient devices that allow travelers to fit their chargers in various outlets. However, they are not always safe to use and should never be considered a permanent solution. If an older house doesn’t have modern outlets, it’s much better to overhaul the system to ensure safe and long-lasting electrical operations.
Here’s why plug adapters should be avoided if possible, even if they are the cheapest and easiest fix.
What are plug adapters?
Plug adapters allow devices to fit into different outlets. These devices commonly adapt three-prong plugs for use in older two-prong outlets, bypassing the grounding plug entirely. The modern three-prong plugs have a dedicated grounding prong for excess electricity to pass into the socket and the ground via the wiring. When that prong is absent, electricity will flow through the nearest conductor, which can be water, other wires, fabrics, and even people or pets.
Plug adapters usually don’t provide any grounding capabilities to bridge the gap between three- and two-prong plugs. Therefore, if anything goes wrong, the device doesn’t have clear access to the ground.
Are plug adapters safe?
As a general rule, plug adapters shouldn’t be considered a permanent solution for overhauling an existing system or bridging the gap between modern and old outlets. They are certainly one of the only solutions when traveling abroad since other countries have different outlets. However, safety measures are not the primary concern of most adapters.
If the house has a metallic breaker box and a grounding system, plug adapters are comparatively safe and can be used in a pinch. An owner can inspect their breaker box directly and use a multimeter or a circuit tester to check whether their breaker boxes are grounded. In these cases, even if the outlets lack a grounding socket, most of the excess electricity will go directly to the box and into the ground. However, there’s still risk involved, and those handling the faulty device might become an easier target for errant currents.
Do plug adapters have warranties?
Plug adapters usually don’t come with any warranties or guarantees. Furthermore, if something goes wrong with a device, the manufacturer might void the warranty if it was connected to the outlet via an adapter. Insurance companies won’t compensate for any damage or losses incurred from malfunctioning plug adapters or appliances connected to them.
Alternatives to plug adapters
While traveling, plug adapters are sometimes the only solution for appliances and devices without detachable plugs. However, phone chargers are usually comparatively inexpensive, and modern phones have a more standardized charging system, making adapters obsolete.
If your home has an outdated electrical network, the best solution is to upgrade it to modern outlets and grounding. A qualified electrician service can perform inspections and necessary overhauls to make the house a safer place. Plug adapters are nothing but a quick, temporary fix that might endanger lives in the process.
If you need a fast, affordable electrician for your home or business, call RSB Electrical at 480-485-4284.
