How to Test an Outlet for Electricity Before Replacing It

Amongst home do-it-yourself projects, electrical repairs are some of the most dangerous. On the surface, they can be deceptively simple, which makes it easy to forget that you're dealing with potentially fatal amounts of electrical current. If you don't take the right precautions every time you work with electricity, major injuries and even death can occur.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Locate your power boxes. Most homes have a circuit breaker, though some older homes may have a fuse box. Be sure you know which type you have.

2. Turn off the power to the desired area. With a circuit box, do this by flipping the switch on the appropriate circuit breaker. With a fuse box, do this by pulling the appropriate fuse out by either removing the fuse block or unscrewing the fuse, depending on the type.

3. Insert a voltage tester into the outlet and test if there is any live current running through the outlet.

4. Determine if the outlet is working. Use a continuity tester to see if the outlet is capable of carrying a current.

5. Remove the receptacle from the wall if it fails the first test. Turn the power to the circuit back on and very carefully test the wires on the back of the outlet receptacle with the continuity tester. Place one probe on the brass terminal and one on the silver terminal. If the receptacle fails both tests, it may need replaced.

Tips & Warnings

• Electrical work can be extremely dangerous. Don't extend outside of your comfort zone. If you feel uncomfortable with your abilities at any point, stop what you are doing and call a professional electrician.