do I need an earth?

[philc57]

I'm told by British Gas that our sockets have 'no earth connection'.

What does this mean, do I need to worry about it, and, if so, what do I need to do?

A few months ago we had a new shower installed, which involved the installation of a new fusebox. Is this likely to be relevant?

 

[holmslaw]

..

 

[chivers67]

Who installed the shower and didn't they mention anything?

Who installed the fusebox?

Was an installation certicate provided?

Any test results?

 

[ricicle]

Do not use your shower or any other appliances until you have consulted an electrician.

 

[crystal ball]

Did BG tell you which tests they carried out and what the results were

 

[riveralt]

Did BG tell you which tests they carried out and what the results were

They probably used one of these highly accurate devices...

http://cpc.farnell.com/1/1/33696-socket-tester-earth-loop-ez150-martindale-electric.html

 

[sparkwright]

Before we get carried away, are you certain it's the 13 amp 'plug' sockets that don't have an earth connection, and not something else like the light switches?

I only ask as occasionally someone uses the incorrect name.

 

[securespark]

The gas engineer that came to me last year has a socket and see unit. Not like the plug-in one, but one with a kettle-type lead.

http://compare.ebay.co.uk/like/180769012556?var=lv&ltyp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar

They check at least one socket now to make sure you have an earth connection within the property.

 

[philc57]

The BG bloke plugged a meter into three different sockets. In all of them the top light [which presumably checks the earth] was red.

Shower and fusebox installation was by a local Gas Safe fitter. No documentaion.