What happens when you reverse an outlet with a large prong and a small prong?

Question

If you install a light bulb socket but do not correctly sort out the hot and neutral, is there any concern with fluorescent bulbs or appliances connected with an adapter. What happens when you reverse a connection with one large prong and one small prong?

Answer 1

Hi manuel7m:In the U.S.A.the receptacle small slot should always be the HOT.The large slot earth ground.In a light bulb socket,the center contact should always be the Hot & connect to the small plug prong.The outer shell should connect to the large plug prong,earth ground.If you change a light bulb & the wiring is reversed,the outer shell on the socket is HOT.If you touch anything that is grounded you will be shocked.All lamps are required to have polarized plugs.The round third hole in a receptacle is also earth ground.A SURGE protector will NOT protect without this ground. Per the National Electrical Code.I hope this answers your question.  exbelltel