How to Troubleshoot a Power Outlet
When a power outlet stops working, there are many possible causes, but one result. You are left without power and the potential for an electrical fire due to faulty, aged or damaged outlets or wiring. Taking the time to troubleshoot the outlet and find the root of the problem is essential to fixing the outlet and ensuring the electrical system is in top condition with a minimal fire risk. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Multimeter
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Instructions
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Check the circuit breaker or fuse in the panel supplying power to the outlet. A tripped breaker will have the lever slightly offset from the rest and usually displays an orange or red indicator near the switch. Turn the switch off and then back on to reset it and restore power. A blown fuse typically looks blackened or has a visibly broken piece of metal inside. Remove and replace the fuse with an identical one to restore power.
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Plug in and test multiple devices to ensure the problem is household wiring and not a problem with the object that was plugged in. If none of the devices work, or do not work properly, the problem is located in the wiring or outlet. If only the original device is not functioning, it is a problem with the device.
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Feel the front of the power outlet with your palm flat against the plastic. If the plastic is hot to touch, the outlet is bad and must be replaced immediately to prevent fire.
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Check the outlet for signs of damage. Shut off power by switching the associated breaker to "Off" or by removing the appropriate fuse. Remove the screw holding the switch cover in place, or pop the cover off from the side or by sliding it upwards if it is a decorative "screwless" plate. Remove the two screws holding the outlet in place, then gently pull the outlet away from the wall.
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Inspect each wire and terminal screw for a loose connection. If the screw can be tightened, tighten it until it is secure. If any terminals are blackened, the connection sparked and the receptacle may need to be replaced.
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Restore power to the outlet. Turn your multimeter to AC and 120V or 220V depending on your receptacle by turning the dial or using the digital selection buttons as described in your meter's manual.
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Touch one of the meter's probes to the bare metal of the black wire where it enters the outlet and touch the other probe to the completely bare or green ground wire. If the meter reads 110 or 220 volts, you are getting power to the receptacle. If the reading is not near 110 or 220 volts, the problem is located somewhere along the line before this receptacle. Check the outlets nearby for wiring issues, then check the wiring along the way for possible breaks caused by nails in the wall or from mice chewing the wires.
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Stick one probe into the "hot" or powered side of the outlet. The hot is the smaller of the two rectangular slots. Stick the other probe into the round grounding slot. If the meter does not read close to 110 or 220 volts, replace the outlet. If the outlet works properly and the breaker continues to "trip" and cut the power, replace the breaker.
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Tips & Warnings
Call an electrician if you get to a point where you are uncomfortable working with the electrical wiring or cannot find the problem. A failing outlet can be a sign of dangerous wiring and should not be left as is.
Many multimeters have specific points the probes must be plugged in to the device based on the type of testing you are performing. The location and instructions vary from one device to another, so always check the manual to prevent improper use and damage to your tester.
Make sure not to touch the probe to more than one object at a time. Touching multiple wires, posts or metal objects may cause a short and damage the receptacle, wiring or your meter. Testing must be done with power on.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
