How to Fix an Electrical Ground Wire
An
electrical ground wire
could be the most important aspect of your home wiring. If the
electrical ground wire is torn from its connection or corroded beyond
its use you could be in trouble. It may only be a matter of time before a
power surge causes an electrical fire that could have been avoided with
an electrical ground wire. Besides the protection of your home there is
also the safety of yourself to consider. With an electrical ground wire
that is not properly connected you could risk getting yourself
electrocuted when working with something as simple a power outlet. The
article that follows will show you how to properly fix a broken
electrical ground wire in a switch or outlet.
Step 1 - Safety First
Before you begin working on any electrical outlet or switch you need
to make sure that the power is completely off. Go to the main electrical
junction box and shut off the proper switch to the area you will be
checking. If the junction box is not properly labeled you are better to
side with safety first and turn the electric off in the entire house.
Before beginning to work on the wires make sure that you have the
grounding wrist strap affixed to your wrist with the alligator clamp
attached to something metal.
Step 2 - Opening the Outlets and Switches
Use your screwdriver and remove the screws that are holding the
plates in place for your outlets or switches. Carefully remove them
without disconnecting any of the wires inside the wall. Make use of the
voltage meter and the continuity meter. Touch each of the wires and the
spaces in between with the voltage meter to check for current. Use the
continuity meter to check for connection from the lines. If there is no
connection from the electrical ground wire, it is corroded or torn out
then you will have to replace it.
Step 3 - Fixing the Electrical Ground Wire
Use the wire cutter and cut the wire close to where it comes from the
wall. Use the wire stripper to remove the insulation (if present).
Twist the end of the wire so that it is tightly wound. Remove the
snipped wire from the switch or the outlet cover. Cut a piece of wire
from the spool of copper wire. Remove insulation from each end (or the
entire wire if insulation was not present) and twist the wires so that
they are tight. Twist one end of the copper wire you cut to the
electrical ground wire in the wall and use a wire cap to keep it neat
and together. Wrap the other end of the wire around the screw of the
switch or outlet and tighten the screw. Carefully replace the wires
inside the wall and place the cover in place. Replace the screws and
turn on the power.
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