A fan plugged into a GFCI works fine. The same fan does not work when plugged into a two pronged outlet. This fan will work when plugged into a surge protector that is plugged into the same two pronged outlet.
Where is my problem?
-
3It could be the outlet or the fan. If the prongs on the fan are slightly bent the 2 prong may be worn enough that it is not making contact. Is the 2 prong polarized? 1 hole taller than the other? If its not polarized it is an antique and needs to at least be updated to a polarized outlet and that will probably solve the problem even if the prongs are bent on the fan.– Ed BealAug 24, 2017 at 19:48
-
Can you take a photo of the fan plug? curious the condition of the fan. @Ed Beal, the polarization shouldn't make a difference (right or wrong) even if its not to current code - (right or wrong) :D– noybmanAug 24, 2017 at 23:53
-
1Older non polarized outlets didnot have the same amount of contact area. And at this age it may be opened up internally its not about the polarization itself.– Ed BealAug 25, 2017 at 11:46
Add a comment
|
1 Answer
What your are saying is that you have a broken neutral and its shorting across the ground. That's why it won't work unless you have a path through the ground prong. This is potentially a dangerous situation. So get rid of the fan or have it repaired, but whatever you decide. Don't use this fan in this condition.
answered Aug 25, 2017 at 13:25
-
i don't follow this. The fan has a two prong plug presumably, unless we assume the OP left off a critical detail as to how he plugged it to a two prong outlet.– agentpNov 29, 2017 at 14:49