I just bought an older house, and all of the all sockets are 2-prong. My computer is a 3-prong and I want to plug it directly to the wall without using an adapter. Is it possible to change a 2-prong plug into a 3-prong plug?

Jackie, August 2009

In addition to Adam> AGAIN I STRESS U.K ONLY.

Two pin sockets were for lighting 5/6amp used for table lamps and tall standard lamps used for reading in arm chair, the standard light was placed at side or behind the chair and shade moved to direct light on to a book/newspaper. Same with table lamp. so you couldn't use your computer on it anyway plus it would be dangerous as it carries no earth so if your computer shorted and made the body of it 'live' you could be electrocuted. Take Adams advice GET AN ELECTRICIAN TO CHECK IT OUT. If you are in U.K you might be able to get part of the cost paid from a council/government grant its worth a phone call to building control office of your local council. And they may have a contractor listed who is resonable with price. Not U.K? then I don't know either.

Bob, August 2009

If it is in the UK your house will almost certainly need rewiring - 3 pin plugs and sockets were introduced just after the war, when vulcanised rubber cabling was used. This kind of cable is likely to crumble if touched after at least 60 years (I see little reason for 2 pin sockets to be installed if the house has been recently rewired).

When you get your house rewired try to keep some of the old sockets and switches intact - your local museum may be interested in them.
Until then (preferably tomorrow) I recommend you use as few appliances as possible, and only ones carrying the double insulation symbol (two concentric squares).

If not in the UK then i don't know.

Adam, August 2009