I just signed a lease on an apartment. I didn't look carefully at all the outlets, but I noticed that each bedroom has exactly one outlet, and the overhead light fixture in the kitchen works by pulling a chain, i.e. there is no light switch in the wall. So I think the electrical wiring must be very old-fashioned.
My question (I hope I may ask this here even though I do not want to do any DIY electrical work — not sure where else to ask): may I safely plug in my laptop? I suspect it would not be good to use a surge protector. Should I make sure to unplug it if there's a chance of a thunderstorm? Should I go to the library every day to charge it?
The electric company required an electrical inspection before I could open an account for the address. The apartment passed the inspection. I didn't have the opportunity to speak with the inspector.
Sorry, I forgot to say, I'm in the U.S., specifically New York State.
Best Answer
First yes you can connect a laptop into a two prong outlet. Is it Safe? That's anybody's guess.
My easiest answer without out rewiring the apartment is to purchase a small UPS system for your laptop. KVA size depends on your computer equipment demands. It has no direct electrical connection to the supply side power. In other words it creates it's own power. This keeps you power supply clean and constant and it protects from surges and sages and requires no electrical knowledge.
If you would like to provide a little more protection. You could ground the source side power and bond the case (should be already done within the unit).
Good Luck