What happens if my treadmill outlet is not grounded?

';	Someone told me that if its not plugged directly into a grounded outlet it could ruin the machine and… © By: Dave Rongey

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Electrical Question from Laura about Grounding
Background: Laura, a Homeowner
[ad#block]Question: I have a treadmill that is supposed to be plugged into a grounded outlet; however, my apartment is old and has no grounded outlets. I have adapters, but someone told me that if its not plugged directly into a grounded outlet it could ruin the machine and/or the apartment. Please help.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Laura. Although you have not provided specific information about your treadmill I will say that the ground is essential for protecting the equipment in the event ofÂ mechanical and electrical failure. If the ground is not present this could cause a possible shock hazard. The comment that someone made about the lack of a ground ruining the machine and or the apartment is not true, however it is not advisable to operate the machine without a ground. Yes I will work without the ground, but the lack of the ground bond will prevent the designed provision of safety which is intended for proper use and operation.

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