Why One Side Of Electrical Outlet Is Wider

HOME CLINIC: I bought a new television that has one blade wider than the other on the plug. Why is one blade wider?

- B.C., Seattle

DEAR B.C.: The reason you find newer electrical cords with one blade wider than the other is because of ``polarity.'' Polarity means that there is a ``hot'' or energized side, (the thin blade), and a ``return'' or neutral side, (the wide blade) to the wiring. When the appliance is plugged in, electricity flows in through the energized side and returns through the neutral side of the wire.

Newer plugs have a third prong (round and centered in the plug) which acts to ground the appliance. In older two prong plugs, grounding is done through the neutral side of the plug. If the appliance isn't grounded correctly, the appliance body could conduct current. In that instance, when you touch the appliance, you become the ground and receive a shock. The neutral side of the plug has an enlarged blade to aid in correctly completing the circuit.

Polarized plugs have been around for a number of years, but more manufacturers are using them now to minimize the chance of customers being shocked. We are aware of no adapters that will accomplish correct grounding more easily than the enlarged plug blade.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Volunteers needed: If you are interested in learning how to cut down on garbage by selective shopping and recycling, would like to know how to compost food and yard waste, and want to share that knowledge with others, consider becoming a King County Master Recycler Composter.

Those who wish to apply should call the Solid Waste Division Information Line at 296-4466 and request an application. More information on the volunteer program is available by calling 296-DIAL. Ask to listen to tape number 1298.

``It's a combination of learning about recycling and composting which is important to me and others and the camaraderie of our group . . . is also enjoyable,'' said Susan Barley, a current volunteer.

The deadline for applying is this week. Training begins Sept. 13 in Burien. Class size is limited to 25. This program is offered by the King County Solid Waste Division with training from the Washington Energy Extension Service.

Home Clinic answers questions about home maintenance, repair and energy conservation. It is prepared by the Washington Energy Extension Service, a Washington State Energy Office program funded by the Bonneville Power Administration and the U.S. Department of Energy. It appears Sundays in the Home/Real Estate section of The Times.