A “false ground,” also called a “bootleg ground,” is a dangerous electrical wiring issue where a neutral wire is mistakenly connected to the grounding terminal, creating the illusion of a proper ground connection while actually providing no protection against electrical shock, potentially causing serious harm if an appliance or person comes into contact with a live part of the circuit.
Key points about false grounds:
- Misleading appearance:A false ground can fool a basic electrical tester because it appears to be grounded when it’s not, leading to a false sense of security.
- Live casing:When a neutral wire is connected to the grounding terminal, the appliance casing can become energized with current, potentially shocking someone who touches it.
- No protection against faults:In case of a fault, a false ground won’t trip a GFCI breaker, leaving a dangerous situation unaddressed.
Why it’s a problem:
- Electrical shock hazard:The primary concern is the risk of electric shock if someone touches a grounded appliance while it has a faulty connection, causing current to flow through their body.
- Equipment damage:A false ground can also damage appliances due to unexpected voltage fluctuations.
What to do if you suspect a false ground:
Proper grounding practices:Always ensure that electrical appliances are properly grounded to prevent electrical shock hazards. Remember, the only thing more expensive than hiring a professional is hiring an amateur! Be sure to hire well qualified, properly insured inspectors and contractors.
Consult a professional electrician:If you suspect a false ground in your electrical system, it’s crucial to have a qualified electrician inspect and repair the wiring immediately.
Happy Hunting!
Toby
