Possible Causes of Electrical Shocks
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Causes of Electrical Shock from a Machine: Testing for a Electric Voltage Leak, I have been receiving electric shocks from my washing machine. |
Electrical Shock from a Machine
Electrical Question: I have been receiving electric shocks from my washing machine.
- I have a new washing machine and I have been receiving electric shocks from it.
- Initially I thought maybe the machine was not grounded.
- I checked my plug using an volt meter and a ground circuit was there.
- I then checked the washing machine from the ground plug to the door hinge using the ohms setting and the they were connected.
- Now how can there still be any electricity flowing?
- The machine is sitting on a wood stand “a front loader” and the floor is concrete.
This electrical question came from: Eric, a Homeowner from Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Eric.
Causes of Electrical Shock from a Machine
Application: Troubleshooting and Testing Electrical Circuit Wiring.
Skill Level: Advanced – Consult a Qualified Licensed Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester or Continuity Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on experience and level of electrical system problem solving skills.
Precaution: Testing live wires is dangerous and should be done by an experienced electrician only. Testing using a continuity tester should only be made after the circuit has been identified and turned OFF and Tagged.
Possible Causes of Electrical Shock
IMPORTANT: A voltage test should be performed by a Qualified Electrician to identify and correct the electrical fault.
Typical Causes of Electrical Shock
- The washing machine may have an internal voltage leak to the frame.
- The electric cord, wall receptacle or the circuit may be incorrectly wired.
The Concrete Floor and Electrical Potentials
- Concrete floors normally have a low resistance to ground because the earth ground is directly below and there is direct contact.
- Adversely a concrete floor may become electrified due to a problem with your house wiring, specifically having to do with a faulty ground wire connection, or the ground system is not grounded properly at the main electrical service.
Testing for a Electric Voltage Leak
- Set the tester on the AC Voltage setting and take a reading from the washing machine housing to the ground terminal of the outlet to verify this.
- WARNING: You must be insulated and kept safe during tests for voltage
- Be sure to wear protective clothing, rubber boots and non-conductive gloves
- Do not get in a position of being part of the electrical circuit
IMPORTANT:
- This condition is Extremely Dangerous!
- Until this problem is identified and corrected it would be good to install a GFCI outlet for the washing machine and any other electrical outlets or devices in the area.
- The source of the voltage leak should be identified and corrected without delay.
More about Electrical Shock and Electrical Wiring
Understanding Electrical Testers
- When working on home electrical wiring using voltage testers can play an important part in electrical safety.
- Electrical testers enable you to identify electrical circuits and help prevent the possibility of accidental electrical shock.
Circuit Wiring
Electrical Safety
Home Electrical Safety
A new approach to keep kids and electricity apart with hopes to prevent children from being injured by electricity.
Electrical Grounding
Electrical Grounding Methods and Requirements
- Listing of electrical codes for grounding
- Examples of electrical grounding codes for home electrical wiring
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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