I often come across homes with some older discontinued features, such as Galvanized Steel Pipes in the water system, Lead Pipes in the drainage system, Knob and Tube Wiring, and the like. This is always when inspecting homes built in the 1970's or older. Well, the other day, I actually came across something that I have never seen before, and I actually had to do a little research to find out exactly what it was used for. I know, you are thinking, "tell me already, what is it?" I found an unusual looking electrical outlet in the kitchen.
It is actually not a for a four-pronged plug. These outlets were made in the fifties and slowly discontinued, mainly due to the advent of grounded plugs, and the need to have a balanced circuit. These outlets were initially designed for the bathroom, (why this one is in the kitchen, who knows!) as they could easily accommodate your electric razor, curling iron, electric toothbrush, and hair dryer all at the same time! What ever happened to the good 'ol days? "
Boy the way Glen Miller played. Songs that made the hit parade...Those were the days" I know, I just dated myself. But that was my Dad's favorite show and we watched it all of the time! (All in the Family, for those that are trying to figure it out)
So, what do you do if you come across one of these outlets? Have a licensed electrician replace it for you, and in fact, you probably aren't on a grounded system, so you might as well have him quote you for an upgrade while he's there. Save the outlet as a souvenir though, just to tell the kids!
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