How to Measure the Flow of Electricity to an Appliance

All outlets have a voltage output.

There are different types of electrical outlets in a home. For example, the standard outlet is 110 volts. A 110-volt outlet runs everything, from lamps to moderate-sized appliances. Most homes also have 220-volt outlets. These outlets run larger appliances, such as ovens, furnaces and clothes dryers. Outlets with different voltages also look different so it is easy to tell them apart. However, if you plug an appliance in and it does not work, you need to test the voltage to ensure it works properly.

Things You'll Need

• Voltmeter

Instructions

1. Disconnect the appliance's electrical cord from the electrical outlet.

2. Turn your voltmeter to "AC" or Alternating Current." Some voltmeters have a voltage range dial. If you are testing a 110-volt outlet, place the voltmeter on the 110-volt setting. If you are testing a 220-volt outlet, place the meter on the 220-volt setting.

3. Turn on any electrical switches that control the outlet, such as a light switch near the door.

4. Place one of the probes connected to the voltmeter into the outlet. Place the second probe into the other outlet hole. Do not place the probes into the grounding hole or the small round hole in the outlet.

5. Take the reading from the voltmeter to determine the voltage output.

References

• National Energy Education Development Project: Measuring Electricity (PDF)
• Electrical Construction & Maintenance Web: "Diagnosing Power Problems at the Receptacle"; Duane Smith; October 2004