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Grounded or un-grounded electrical adapter in UK?

Rick sells ungrounded electrical adapters for use in the UK. Is this OK, or are the receptacles in the UK usually of the grounded type. Does it matter???

Posted by
113 posts

UK outlets are all one style and type so you would need the power converting for those items that are not 220v capable and an adapter for those things that are.

Posted by
152 posts

Thanks Thomas. But I do not have a problem with the voltage. When I look at various "electricity" web sites, two types of adapter plugs show up for the UK: grounded and ungrounded. The prongs have a different shape. So, I'm wondering if I need one or the other or both. Have a look at Item #300 and 3G http://www.walkabouttravelgear.com/c_uk.htm

Posted by
32353 posts

Jerry, AFAIK, all the U.K. Plug Adapters have three large rectangular pins. The difference between the grounded and ungrounded models (I travel with both) is that the grounding pin on non-grounded models is made of plastic rather than metal (therefore, no connection takes place). ¶ Whether to use the grounded or ungrounded Plug Adapters depends on which appliances you're using? If connecting a North American appliance that is equipped with a three pin (grounded) Plug, I try to use the same when connecting that device in Europe. ¶ One other point to note about receptacles in the U.K. is that they're often provided with a switch. Ensure that the switch is "On" when connecting appliances. Happy travels!

Posted by
152 posts

Thanks Ken. It dawned on me a little while ago, that nothing I take with has grounded plugs. Just chargers of various sorts. So, it's all moot, and the one Rick has on sale for $1 will work fine. I ordered one with some other stuff, and got free shipping!