This customer wanted an electrical-service upgrade, and grounding wire to all receptacles, so they could use 3-prong plugs. After completing an NFPA-70 Art.220 load calculation, and locating proper equipment for the existing service, with room for a spare slot, the owners were told:

“You could ask a licensed contractor to do this work, and a 200A service upgrade will run between $1500-$2500. Depending on how gullible you are, for another $2500 they could install grounding wires for all 3-prong receptacles.”

“However, if we use proper building codes to guarantee inspection-perfect repairs, under $500, the same 3-prong plugs are possible with the existing wiring & electrical service. Your existing service barely approaches 75% capacity with every switch & appliance turned on.”

“There is nothing wrong with your electrical service, and licensed contractors won’t think twice about replacing it.” “Do you really want to rewire the building, if replacing the proper device allows the same 3-prong receptacles with existing wiring?”

The owners ultimately saved over $4,500, and their perception of criminal conduct remains squarely on those who make unnecessary construction their business.