What it is: A three-prong receptacle has no functioning equipment grounding connection.
Why it matters
Without a ground path, surge protectors and grounded appliances offer no protection and fault current cannot clear safely.
Why it's common in Bloomington
Frequently found where three-prong outlets replaced original two-prong devices in Hennepin County homes built before grounding was standard.
Signs to watch for
- tester shows open ground
- three-prong outlets on older two-wire circuits
- non-functioning surge strips
What we check during the inspection
The inspector tests receptacles for a grounded condition and documents open grounds by location.
How it's typically corrected
An electrician runs a proper ground, rewires to a grounded circuit, or replaces with a labeled GFCI per code.
Concerned about open ground receptacles in a home you're buying or selling? Get a free instant quote and we'll evaluate it as part of a full inspection.