Experiencing a shock when touching your new stove and another electrical appliance at the same time could be due to a phenomenon called "ground potential difference" or "ground loop."
When electrical devices are connected to different electrical outlets or circuits, there can be variations in the electrical potential or voltage between the different grounding systems. If you touch two appliances that are connected to separate circuits with different ground potentials, a small current can flow through your body, causing a mild electric shock.
Here's how it happens:
Grounding System: In most electrical systems, there is a grounding wire that serves as a safety measure to direct electrical current to the ground in case of a fault or surge.
Ground Potential Difference: In a perfect electrical system, all grounding points should be at the same potential (0 volts). However, due to various reasons like wiring issues, different electrical paths, or varying distances to the electrical panel, the ground potential can differ between outlets or appliances.
Body Conduction: When you touch two appliances that have different ground potentials, your body can act as a conductor between them. The small voltage difference between the appliances causes a small current to flow through your body, resulting in a shock.
To address this issue and prevent shocks, you can take the following steps:
Verify Outlets: Check if both the stove and the other appliance are connected to grounded outlets. If they are not, consider having a qualified electrician inspect and correct the grounding.
Use the Same Outlet: Whenever possible, plug both appliances into the same outlet or power strip to avoid potential ground potential differences.
Install Isolation Transformer: In more severe cases, especially in sensitive electronics, using an isolation transformer can help eliminate ground potential differences and prevent shocks.
Contact an Electrician: If you are experiencing frequent shocks or are unsure about the electrical setup in your home, it's best to consult a licensed electrician who can properly assess and address any grounding issues.
Remember that electric shocks can be dangerous, especially if they are strong or recurring. Always prioritize your safety and seek professional help to ensure your electrical system is set up correctly and without any hazards.