Can the electric stove fail if, when connecting it, I mix up zero and ground?

  • Mar 20, 2021
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For your attention, there are already 71 questions.

The very text of the question asked by the reader Alexey sounded as follows:

If, when connecting the electric stove, I confuse zero and ground, can the stove fail? In the kitchen, 3 wires come out of the wall specifically for the electric stove, but they are all the same color. I will find the phase with an indicator screwdriver, but the ground and zero will have to be connected at random.
The photo is for illustrative purposes.
The photo is for illustrative purposes.

I considered the issue and advised Alexey within the framework of my knowledge and qualifications as follows:

Do not try to connect electrical equipment at random!

If, when connecting, you apply the potential of the neutral conductor to the grounding terminal of the electric stove, then with some types of damage in the electrical circuit, its body will be under threat to your life potential. And this, in turn, can lead to extremely disastrous consequences, so it's better to ring three wires - it's not difficult.

You are absolutely right about the stove, nothing threatens it, if you confuse a neutral conductor with earth.

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To ring the three wires at the exit from the wall, you need a multimeter and an indicator screwdriver.

  • First, determine the phase conductor in place, as you have already noted, it will not be difficult, mark it in any convenient way.
  • Then locate the phase conductor in the dashboard or circuit breaker that powers the stove line or the entire kitchen.
  • Turn off the circuit breaker and de-energize the line, additionally check the absence of voltage in the disconnected wire.
  • Perform the same procedure with the neutral conductor and the protective earth conductor.
  • Connect the phase conductor and the neutral conductor at the circuit breaker to make a stable contact.
  • Check with a multimeter in ringing mode at the connection point of the plate alternately the phase conductor with each of the wires. The one that will show the circuit and will be the neutral conductor.
  • Since you are using a ground wire as well, ring it to test it too. Also short-circuit in the shield with the phase conductor, and then in the kitchen check the circuit with a multimeter.

This procedure will allow you to connect the electric stove correctly and as safely as possible for all residents.