GFCI on 2 wire systems

[Tim C. Howell]

Looking for some help on clarification. My understanding is a GFCI will prevent elec shock in a 2 wire system. I have seen them in bathrooms and kitchens. The part that trips me up is, a 2 wire system is still not grounded. That should be a safety concern, but not unsafe with a GFCI installed. (correct?)
Second part of question, in a home with 2 wire outlets why couldn't a person put GFCIs in all the locations? Like the living room for example. I was ask this question the other day. The occupants would be protected, correct?
Thanks folks.

[Michael Larson]

He can.

[Chuck Evans]

I wouldn't say they prevent, but rather that they reduce the potential for someone to get shocked. People can always find ways to electrocute themselves.

Many older homes' electrical systems are not grounded, however, short of fully rewiring the house, GFCI can be an effective way of providing improved protection against shocks and maintain "code" compliance with three prong outlets (use the "no equipment ground" stickers).

As Mike said so succinctly, he can install them on most circuits for enhanced protection. Don't need to install on every outlet, just lead outlet on each circuit. Change the other outlets to three prog, install stickers and he's good to go.

Of course, I would advise him to use a qualified, licensed electrician to do the work vs. Bubba that handy guy.

[Michael Larson]

Originally Posted by cevans

I wouldn't say they prevent, but rather that they reduce the potential for someone to get shocked. People can always find ways to electrocute themselves.

They prevent a fault current in excess of 5 mA from going through a person.

That is sufficient to prevent electrocution in most of the population.

Those at risk are ones that have a pathway via inter-venous lines or a compromise layer of skin.

GFCI outlets in non three wire systems need to be labeled appropriately.

[Bob Elliott]

Tim a grounded system is to protect the equipt and not you.

Not sure I would want a bunch of GFCI outlets with stickers everywhere that no one will pay attention to when they plug things in.

If this place has real conduit, a switch to grounded outlets is easy.

[Michael Larson]

Conduit in Iowa?

Come on Bob get real.

[Bob Elliott]

Originally Posted by mlarson

Conduit in Iowa?

Come on Bob get real.

Do you assume Mike? or have you been there.
I have not.

For all I know they are using Tesla coils to beam it all through space.

[Michael Larson]

Originally Posted by belliott

Do you assume Mike? or have you been there.
I have not.

For all I know they are using Tesla coils to beam it all through space.

Got relies their Bob.

[Marcel Gratton]

Originally Posted by mlarson

They prevent a fault current in excess of 5 mA from going through a person.

That is sufficient to prevent electrocution in most of the population.

Those at risk are ones that have a pathway via inter-venous lines or a compromise layer of skin.

GFCI outlets in non three wire systems need to be labeled appropriately.

True, but GFCI's are not going to protect the 60" Plasma, microwave oven, computer, fridge,...

[Michael Larson]

Originally Posted by mgratton

True, but GFCI's are not going to protect the 60" Plasma, microwave oven, computer, fridge,...

Never said they were for equipment protection.

Follow the mfgs. instructions for appliances.

[rbrady]

I'm sorry, but it really bugs me when people state that GFCI will reduce the risk of (or worse yet - prevent) electrical shocks.

GFCI PROTECTION DOES NOT REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCKS!!!!!

They reduce the risk of death by electrocution, but have absolutly no affect on electrical shocks in general. A 5ma shock is still VERY painful (from what I have read).

[Bob Elliott]

Not really

Now 220 kinda bothers you.
110 just tickles.

[rbrady]

Originally Posted by belliott

Not really

Now 220 kinda bothers you.
110 just tickles.

Have you ever tripped a GFCI with your body (across two fingers doesn't count)? I don't recommend trying it, but would be interested in hearing if anyone has.

From what I have heard, at least 220 will knock you off, unlike 110 which just makes your muscles hold tighter.

[Bob Elliott]

I have been shocked many times ,so I do not count as I may have built an immunity.

In used to experiment from the time I was a kid.

None the less I would not depend on any devise to always do its job.(haven't we all inspected bad GFCI)?

[Michael Larson]

Resisting going there.