Replace a Two-Prong Outlet with a Three-Prong Outlet

If your home still has two-prong outlets, you’re not alone. Many older homes, especially those built before the 1960s, were wired long before modern appliances, laptops, and gaming consoles required the now-standard 3 prong outlet.

While these outlets may seem harmless, they pose real safety concerns and limit what you can plug in.

The good news?

You don’t have to live with outdated electrical outlets. It’s possible to replace a two-prong outlet with a three-prong outlet, but only if it’s done properly.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to upgrade safely, what your options are, and why working with a licensed electrician is often the smartest move.

Why Are Two-Prong Outlets Still Around?

Two-prong outlets were once the norm. Back then, homes were built with a hot wire and a neutral wire, but no ground wire. That missing third prong? It plays a major role in electrical safety.

The ground wire in a 3 prong outlet provides a safe path for excess electricity to travel in case of a fault. Without it, you increase the risk of electric shock, power surges, and damage to your devices.

So while your old outlets may “work,” they’re not equipped to handle the needs of today’s electronics, or the safety standards of today’s codes.

Can You Just Swap a 2 Prong Outlet for a 3 Prong One?

You can’t just change a two-prong outlet to a three-prong version and call it good. Doing so without addressing grounding violates the National Electrical Code and could create serious hazards.

To replace a two-prong outlet with a three-prong outlet safely, you have a few code-compliant options, depending on whether your wiring includes a ground and what kind of protection you need.

Safe and Legal Options for Upgrading Outlets

Option 1: Run a Ground Wire (Most Complete Option)

The most thorough, and most expensive, solution is to run a new ground wire from the outlet back to your electrical panel or another grounded location. This turns a two-prong outlet into a fully grounded three-prong outlet.

Pros:

• Meets all code requirements
• Safest and most permanent solution
• Allows use of surge protectors

Cons:

• Costly
• May require opening walls or rewiring

This is often the best option if you’re already updating your wiring or dealing with multiple outlets.

Learn more in our article: Top Signs Your House Needs a Rewire.

Option 2: Install a GFCI Outlet Without Ground (Most Common)

If there’s no ground wire present, a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet can be used as a replacement. GFCIs don’t create a ground, but they do protect against electric shock by monitoring current flow. If there’s a problem, they shut off power instantly.

This approach is approved by the National Electrical Code, but the outlet must be labeled as “No Equipment Ground.”

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Code-compliant when properly labeled
• Quick to install

Cons:

• Doesn’t protect against power surges
• Surge protectors won’t function fully

We typically recommend GFCI outlets as the best compromise for homeowners who want improved safety without the cost of rewiring. If you’re unsure whether you have grounded wiring, we offer a Home Electrical Inspection to assess your system.

Option 3: Rewire the Circuit (Long-Term Solution)

In cases where the wiring is very old or damaged, rewiring the circuit to include a ground wire may be necessary. This is a more involved project but ensures that your outlets meet today’s safety standards and are future-proofed for modern appliances.

How We Replace a Two-Prong Outlet with a Three-Prong Outlet

When you hire The Electricians to replace your outdated outlets, here’s how the process typically goes:

Turn Off the Power

We shut off the appropriate circuit breaker and verify the outlet is dead using a voltage tester.

Remove the Old Outlet

We take out the old two-prong outlet carefully, ensuring the wires remain intact.

Inspect the Wiring

If a ground wire is present and connected to your electrical panel, we install a standard 3 prong outlet. If not, we recommend a GFCI outlet and follow code requirements.

Install the New Outlet

• Hot wire (black) connects to the brass “Line” terminal.
• Neutral wire (white) connects to the silver “Line” terminal.
• Ground wire (if present) connects to the green screw.

Label if Necessary

If there’s no ground wire, we label the outlet “No Equipment Ground” as required by code.

Test the GFCI

We use the TEST and RESET buttons to confirm the outlet is functioning properly.

What About 3-Prong to 2-Prong Adapters?

Adapters that allow a 3 prong plug to fit into a 2 prong outlet (commonly called “cheater plugs”) may seem like a quick fix, but they’re not recommended for regular use. These adapters only work safely if the metal box is grounded, which isn’t something most people can confirm on their own.

Even worse, a surge protector plugged into an ungrounded outlet won’t actually protect your devices.

If you’re relying on these adapters, it’s time to consider a proper upgrade.

FAQs: Common Questions About Replacing Two-Prong Outlets

Is it legal to replace a 2 prong plug with a 3 prong outlet?

Yes, but only if you either add a ground wire or install a GFCI outlet and label it appropriately.

Will a GFCI outlet protect my electronics from power surges?

No. A GFCI protects you from electric shock, not from voltage spikes. Surge protection requires grounding. Consider whole-home surge protection if you have valuable electronics.

How much does it cost to replace a two-prong outlet?

Expect to pay $100–$150 per outlet for a GFCI upgrade. If grounding or rewiring is needed, the cost may increase depending on the complexity of the job.

Can I replace a two-prong outlet myself?

Unless you’re very familiar with the National Electrical Code and home wiring, we don’t recommend it. A mistake could lead to fire, shock, or code violations.

Can I plug a surge protector into an ungrounded outlet?

You can, but it won’t work as intended. Surge protectors need a proper ground to redirect excess electricity safely.

Ready to Upgrade? We Can Help

Replacing a two-prong outlet with a three-prong outlet is one of the smartest safety upgrades you can make in your home. Whether you’re looking to protect your family from electric shock or your devices from power surges, the solution starts with safe, code-compliant work.

At The Electricians, we’ve helped hundreds of Colorado homeowners upgrade their outdated outlets safely and affordably.

From installing GFCI outlets to rewiring entire circuits, we know how to make your electrical system safer and more functional.

Need help?

Schedule your service now and get expert advice on the best solution for your home.