Is there a safe way to allow 2 prong knob and tube electrical outlets to use 3 prong plugs?

Question

I recently rented an old home. The house has about 85% updated electric and 15% knob and tube. One of the bedrooms only has a single knob & tube 2 prong outlet. I need to setup a computer in this room. Is there a safe way to connect a 3 prong power strip or UPS to this 2 prong knob & tube outlet? I can't change the electric since I am renting. Thanks!

Answer 1

KNOB AND TUBE,,, no ****? This is the wiring with glass insulators, and bare wires that are attached to the insulators and run through floor joists inside ceramic tubes. IF this is what you have,,,, don't run anything on it.... and get it replaced.... it is an increased fire hazard to the building, and most insurance companies will not even insure this anymore.



Now,,, if it is just plain jane 2 conductor BX wiring or something,,, you can run a ground wire. But knob and tube is too dicey for this. A rodent can cross the legs, old glass tube fail,,,you name it. If you have real, for gosh, knob and tube wiring,,,,, run a new circuit, even if it is just for one recepticle.

Answer 2

If you know for a fact the wires are in good shape, besides being knob and tube, you can by NEC Electrical code install a GFCI outlet. Then you must label it as not being grounded. GFCI's do not require or use a ground to work. But I would try to find another place to use your computer.

Answer 3

There is no safe way to do what you want. Try putting the computer and electronics in an area where the power is properly grounded. The NEC prohibits running an extension cord through a doorway, it is a fire hazard.

Answer 4

yeah dan, but it won't be grounded!!

run an extension cord to another outlet that is grounded, just run it around the edge of the room, not under any rugs. if the distance is too far, pick up one of those orange outdoor cords, or one of the other colors they have now.

other than that, you'd have to hire an electrician to run a wire to ground that outlet.

good luck, hope this helps.

Answer 5

they sell adapter that you can use