old 2 prong outlet question

[Chris Masons]

Hi guys,

I have an electrical issue/question. I own an older 2 family built in 1932. The outlets are mostly 2 prong and it appears there is no ground wire. My tenant is asking me to change to 3 prong so she could readily plug in things without having to use a 3 to 2 prong adapters.

I am ok with changing to 3 prong outlets but I am thinking about it and if there is only a hot and neutral in the wall is it a good idea to change to 3 prong? Would this create a saftey issue or is it the same situation as it is now with 2 prong and no ground and just more of a convenience b/c she wouldn't need the adapter?

thx!

Chris

[Marc D.]

You can install ground fault circuit interrupter GFCI, which will trip if there is a short. In order to be legal, you need to label the GFCIs with NO EQUIPMENT GROUND labels that you can get from the electrical supply store.