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  3. 1252885361

Improper ground

Okay, I've got a 20A circuit with 5 receptacles in the chain. Only one of the five have proper ground. As far as I can determine it's the first one in the chain (has a switch also, which btw when I turn it on/off a "pop" can be heard from my speakers). I have a 7 outlet power strip plugged into the grounded receptacle, which comforts me and where I plug my modest gear into since it's grounded.

All the receptacles in the circuit are getting exactly 123 volts each.

By plugging my amp straight into the improperly grounded outlet what are the risks here? Damage to the amp from normal every day usage (don't believe so). Should I get an electrician in here and ground the outlets.

I'm interested in whether I should be concerned with plugging my gear into non-grounded power socket(s)...
notec
gregm
3,395 posts
 
Your amp will be grounded when it is connected to the grounded source (via the I/C).
But... you want to be on the safe side, don't you? So, ask the manufacturer!
stubby
73 posts
 
I would suggest that you do get a qualified electrician and have him check out the whole electrical system. Improper grounding could be an indication of other existing problems from poor connections to improper design. Safety is key, the amp can be replaced.
brf
1,715 posts
 
For $5 you can buy a 3 prong circuit tester, that way you can tell for sure what's grounded, determine proper phase etc.
notec OP
407 posts
 
Turns out they used two wire cable to string up my circuit after the first outlet in the chain. So no ground was present because it wasn't in the power cable! Had to cut the box out; drill two holes in the corner walls to fish the cable thru; cut the 2 wire out and fish the new 12AWG Romex between the 1st and 2nd receptacles.

Electrician had "really shaky hands" and I was nervous watching him attach my $144 Oyaide R1 AC Receptacle. His helper got electrocuted when trying to grab the fishing wire thru the cutout in the wall of the old outlet. On several occasions I offered to switch the breaker off because he was just charging ahead with live wires. Cost me $150 for 1.5 hours work but some of that was entertainment.

The remaining 3 outlets are still improperly ground in the chain but I only plug a cable modem and router into them...
almarg's avatar
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
On several occasions I offered to switch the breaker off because he was just charging ahead with live wires.
Electrician had "really shaky hands"
Somehow I think there is a connection there (no pun intended)!
His helper got electrocuted when trying to grab the fishing wire thru the cutout in the wall of the old outlet.
Sure hope you mean "shocked" and not "electrocuted." :)

Regards,
-- Al
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