this post was submitted on 20 May 2025
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American electrical systems have bonded neutrals and grounds at the point of disconnect, so in the event of a ground fault, there are multiple layers of safety involved.
Lower voltage by using half of a split phase 240V means shocks are less deadly.
Electrical code also requires Arc and Ground fault protection on all circuits.
The biggest advantages to European electrical systems are smaller and fewer conductors, due to higher voltage, and appliances like kettles can draw more watts as a result.
Both systems have advantages and disadvantages, but saying that American Electrical systems are "the most unsafe electrical systems in the world" is bullshit. Visit India where people regularly hook up unsanctioned taps to live power lines or Central America where they put electric hot water heaters literally in the shower, conductors and all, almost always by Handyman Juan who doesn't hook up any ground fault protection.