Wiring problems.
Topic : What does it mean when hot and neutral are reversed? Also an open ground? What kind of safety problem is it, and how would you go about fixing them?
Hot and neutral reversed means the two wires are on the wrong side of the plug. For most things (like a lamp, radio, or anything with 2 prong plugs) it’s not too big of a deal. Large items like air conditioners (or anything with 3 prong plugs) like having them in the proper place.
An open ground simply means that there is no ground on the outlet (the third hole on the outlet). This again is no big problem for 2 prong plugs since they don’t use the third prong anyway. However, if you are plugging in any items with 3 prongs the ground is needed to protect the item and yourself from electric shock. This is especially true with Air Conditioners, as they are famous for shocking people when they are not grounded.
To fix the hot/neutral reversed simple shut off the fuse or circuit breaker, remove the outlet from the wall, and switch the sides the wires are on. The black wire should go to the brass screw and the white wire should go to the silver screw.
As far as fixing the ground, you should call an electrician for that one. It’s not easy to trace a problem like that. I wouldn’t recommend trying it yourself.
Disclaimer:
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