Do you have an older home with outlets that look a little different? Maybe they only have two slots instead of three, and no little round hole. These are called ungrounded outlets, and they can be a bit tricky when it comes to protecting your electronics. You might be wondering, “Can I even use a surge protector with these?” The answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as plugging just any surge protector in.
Choosing the right surge protector for an ungrounded outlet can feel like a puzzle. You want to keep your valuable gadgets safe from power surges, but you also don’t want to damage your outlets or create a fire hazard. It’s confusing to know which ones are safe and effective for your specific situation. This is where many people get stuck, unsure of the best path forward.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about surge protectors and ungrounded outlets. We’ll explain why your older outlets need special attention and guide you through the options. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a surge protector that truly protects your devices and your home. Let’s dive in and discover the best solutions for your ungrounded outlets!
Our Top 5 Surge Protector For Ungrounded Outlet Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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2 Prong Power Strip | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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LENCENT 2 Prong Surge Protector Power Strip | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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2 Prong Power Strip | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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LENCENT 2 Prong Surge Protector Power Strip with USB Ports | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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TROND 2 Prong Power Strip USB | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Surge Protector For Ungrounded Outlet Detailed Reviews
1. 2 Prong Power Strip
Rating: 8.7/10
The WRXDMC 2 Prong to 3 Prong Outlet Adapter is a smart solution for older homes with limited outlets. It turns a basic two-prong outlet into a powerful charging hub. This adapter brings modern convenience and safety to your electrical setup.
What We Like:
- It easily converts old two-prong outlets into safe, three-prong ones.
- You can charge up to 8 devices at once with 5 AC outlets and 3 USB ports.
- The USB ports automatically find the best charging speed for your gadgets.
- It includes important safety features like surge protection and a built-in circuit breaker.
- Safety covers on the outlets help keep curious kids safe.
- The fire-resistant material adds an extra layer of security.
- A 5-foot extension cord gives you flexibility in where you place it.
- It’s wall-mountable, saving you precious desk or counter space.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers surge protection, it’s important to remember it’s designed for non-grounded outlets and may not offer the same level of protection as a grounded surge protector.
- The total USB output is shared, so charging multiple high-power devices simultaneously might be slower.
This adapter is a fantastic upgrade for any home needing more safe and organized power. It’s a must-have for apartments and dorm rooms.
2. LENCENT 2 Prong Surge Protector Power Strip
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of that old two-prong outlet limiting your gadgets? The LENCENT 2 Prong Surge Protector Power Strip is a game-changer, especially for older homes. It cleverly turns a basic two-prong outlet into a grounded three-prong one, letting you plug in up to six devices at once. This means you can power up your phone, laptop, and other electronics without any fuss. It’s a super useful tool for kitchens, offices, bathrooms, or anywhere you have those older, ungrounded outlets.
What We Like:
- Turns a 2-prong outlet into a 3-prong one, letting you use more devices.
- Has 6 widely spaced outlets, so big plugs don’t block each other.
- Includes a grounding screw for a more secure and safer connection (if your outlet is already grounded).
- Offers 1728 Joules of surge protection to keep your electronics safe from power spikes.
- Built with safety in mind, including overload and short-circuit protection.
- The fire-resistant casing adds an extra layer of safety.
- Compact, 3-sided design fits well in tight spaces.
What Could Be Improved:
- The grounding feature only works if the original outlet is already grounded.
- May not be suitable for very heavy-duty appliances that require dedicated grounding.
This power strip is a fantastic solution for anyone needing more outlets and better safety for their electronics, especially in older homes. It brings modern convenience and peace of mind to your power needs.
3. 2 Prong Power Strip
Rating: 8.5/10
Are you tired of limited outlets in your older home? The WRXDMC 2 Prong Power Strip is here to help! This handy adapter turns your old two-prong outlets into a powerful charging station. It’s perfect for all your gadgets and small appliances, making your home more convenient and safer.
What We Like:
- It easily changes a two-prong outlet into a three-prong one, which is great for older homes.
- The flat plug is super thin, letting you push furniture closer to the wall and saving space.
- You can charge up to 12 devices at once with 8 AC outlets and 4 USB ports (2 USB-C and 2 USB-A).
- It has a 1400-joule surge protector to keep your electronics safe from power surges.
- A clear indicator light shows when surge protection is active.
- The built-in circuit breaker protects against overloads and keeps your home safe.
- It’s made with fire-resistant material for extra safety.
- The 5-foot cord gives you flexibility in where you plug it in.
- It can be mounted on the wall, saving even more space.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for older homes, it’s important to ensure your home’s wiring is in good condition before using any new electrical devices.
This WRXDMC power strip offers a fantastic solution for modernizing your home’s power access. It’s a smart and safe way to power all your devices.
4. LENCENT 2 Prong Surge Protector Power Strip with USB Ports
Rating: 9.5/10
The LENCENT 2 Prong Surge Protector Power Strip is a game-changer for older homes or any space needing more power options. It cleverly turns a basic two-prong outlet into a robust charging station, handling multiple devices at once. This adapter makes it easy to power up your gadgets safely and efficiently.
What We Like:
- It transforms a two-prong outlet into a safe three-prong one, which is great for older houses.
- You can charge up to 14 devices at the same time with 10 AC outlets and 4 USB ports.
- The built-in surge protection (1700J) and circuit breaker keep your electronics safe from power spikes and overloads.
- It’s wall-mountable and has a compact design, saving you space.
- The 6-foot extension cord provides good reach to power outlets.
- There’s enough space between outlets for larger plugs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it converts to a 3-prong, it doesn’t actually add a ground connection, which might be a concern for very sensitive or high-power equipment.
- The total USB output is 3.4A, which is good for most phones and tablets but might charge some devices a bit slower than dedicated fast chargers.
This LENCENT power strip is an excellent solution for expanding your power options and protecting your devices. It’s a smart and safe choice for modernizing your electrical setup.
5. TROND 2 Prong Power Strip USB
Rating: 9.3/10
Living in an older home with limited outlets can be a hassle, especially when you have lots of gadgets to charge. The TROND 2 Prong Power Strip USB, 2 to 3 Prong Outlet Adapter is designed to solve that problem. It turns your old, two-prong outlets into a powerful charging station, giving you more ways to power up your devices.
What We Like:
- It cleverly converts a two-prong outlet into a three-prong one, making it safe for modern electronics.
- You get five AC outlets and three USB ports (including a USB-C!), so you can charge many things at once.
- The outlets are spaced out on three sides, so bulky plugs won’t block each other.
- It has a handy ON/OFF switch that also acts as a circuit breaker for safety.
- You can even screw it to the wall for extra stability.
- It offers 1440 joules of surge protection to keep your electronics safe from power spikes.
- The material is flame-retardant for added safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB-C port’s maximum output is 3A, which might be a bit slow for some of the newest, power-hungry devices.
- While it converts to a three-prong outlet, it doesn’t actually add a ground connection, which is the main function of a three-prong plug.
This TROND adapter is a smart solution for anyone needing more outlets and USB charging options in older homes. It’s a safe and convenient way to power your everyday electronics.
Choosing the Right Surge Protector for Your Ungrounded Outlets
Many older homes have ungrounded outlets. These outlets only have two slots. They don’t have a third, round hole for a ground wire. This ground wire is important. It helps protect your electronics from power surges.
A power surge is a sudden jump in electricity. It can happen during thunderstorms or when the power flickers. These surges can damage or destroy your valuable electronics. This is where a surge protector comes in. But what if you have ungrounded outlets? You need a special kind of surge protector.
Key Features to Look For
1. Protection Rating (Joules)
The Joule rating tells you how much energy a surge protector can absorb. A higher Joule rating means better protection. For most common electronics, aim for a surge protector with at least 600 Joules. For more sensitive or expensive devices, look for 1000 Joules or more.
2. Number of Outlets
Think about how many devices you need to plug in. Surge protectors come with different numbers of outlets. Choose one that fits your needs without overcrowding.
3. Indicator Lights
Good surge protectors have indicator lights. These lights show you if the surge protection is active and working. If the light goes out, it means the surge protector has absorbed too many surges and needs to be replaced.
4. Cord Length
Consider where your outlet is located. You might need a longer cord to reach your devices comfortably. Measure the distance you need to cover.
5. Build Quality and Durability
A sturdy surge protector will last longer. Look for a solid casing and well-made internal components. It should feel substantial and not flimsy.
Important Materials
The most important material inside a surge protector is the Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV). MOVs are special components that divert excess electricity away from your devices. When a surge happens, the MOV changes its resistance. It becomes a conductor, sending the extra power to the ground wire (or the surge protector’s internal protection system). High-quality MOVs are crucial for effective surge protection.
The casing of the surge protector is usually made of durable plastic. This plastic should be fire-retardant. This is an important safety feature.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Higher Joule Ratings: More Joules mean better protection.
- Reputable Brands: Well-known brands often use better components and have stricter quality control.
- UL Certification: Look for the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) mark. This means the product has been tested and meets safety standards.
- Indicator Lights: These lights are essential for knowing your protection is active.
Quality Reducers:
- Low Joule Ratings: These offer minimal protection.
- No Indicator Lights: You won’t know if it’s still protecting you.
- Flimsy Construction: Cheap plastic and loose parts suggest poor quality.
- Unknown Brands: These might cut corners on safety and effectiveness.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a surge protector for ungrounded outlets is simple. You plug the surge protector into the two-prong outlet. Then, you plug your electronic devices into the surge protector’s outlets. It’s like adding a safe extension cord with extra protection.
These surge protectors are perfect for older homes or apartments. They are great for protecting things like lamps, radios, phone chargers, and even older televisions. While they offer protection, it’s important to remember that they don’t offer the same level of advanced protection as surge protectors designed for grounded outlets. They are best for less sensitive electronics.
For very expensive or critical electronics like computers, gaming consoles, or home theater systems, it’s always best to upgrade your wiring to include grounded outlets if possible. However, for general protection in areas with ungrounded outlets, a good surge protector is a smart investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is an ungrounded outlet?
A: An ungrounded outlet has only two slots and no third round hole for a ground wire. It’s common in older buildings.
Q: Can I use a regular surge protector with ungrounded outlets?
A: No, you should not. Regular surge protectors rely on a ground wire to divert surges. You need a surge protector specifically designed for ungrounded outlets.
Q: How do surge protectors for ungrounded outlets work without a ground wire?
A: These surge protectors divert surges to their internal components or to the neutral wire, offering a level of protection, though less than a grounded system.
Q: What does the Joule rating mean?
A: The Joule rating shows how much energy the surge protector can absorb before failing. Higher Joules mean more protection.
Q: How many Joules do I need?
A: For basic electronics, 600 Joules is a good start. For more valuable items, aim for 1000 Joules or higher.
Q: Are indicator lights important?
A: Yes, they are very important. They tell you if the surge protector is still working and protecting your devices.
Q: What if the indicator light turns off?
A: If the light goes out, it means the surge protector has absorbed many surges and is no longer protecting your electronics. You need to replace it.
Q: Can these surge protectors protect my computer?
A: They offer some protection, but for sensitive electronics like computers, a surge protector with a higher Joule rating and ideally a grounded outlet is recommended.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with using surge protectors on ungrounded outlets?
A: While designed for this purpose, they offer less protection than grounded systems. Always ensure the surge protector is UL certified and in good condition.
Q: How often should I replace a surge protector?
A: Surge protectors don’t last forever. They degrade with each surge they absorb. If the indicator light goes out, replace it immediately. Otherwise, consider replacing them every 3-5 years as a precaution.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.