... many electronics use the ground as a 'neutral' for the tiny amount of power necessary to keep things 'warmed up' (for instant 'on') or allow them to function when the appliance is "off" (timers and photocells are some examples where this might happen).
I don't think so! That's a real stretch. There may be leakage but intentionally putting current on the ground (no matter how "tiny") would wreak havoc with GFI's and AFCI's wouldn't it. I also don't think the device would make UL or any other testing lab very happy either.
There is no reason for it, the neutral is uninterrupted and available so what would be the reason for using the ground?
-Hal
