How Do You Test Electrical Outlets For Common Wiring Problems?
This article shows how to test standard electrical outlets for common wiring problems using a three-prong outlet tester. This test is inexpensive and quick and is recommended for any new homeowner, aspiring homeowner, renter, real estate agent, home inspector – or anyone else who wants to test standard electrical outlets for wiring problems! You will need an outlet tester. These are only about $5-10. Pick one up at your local home improvement store (e.g. Lowes, Homedepot, Ace, etc.). Put the outlet tester into the outlet you want to test. Check which lights come on on the outlet tester. Compare the lights on the outlet tester with the table printed on the outlet tester. EXAMPLE for PROBLEMATIC OUTLET Only one yellow light lit up! This outlet has a problem! Reading from the table we learn that this outlet has an open ground! Mark the outlet with a sticker and/or note the location of the faulty outlet. It will have to be repaired! EXAMPLE for UNPROBLEMATIC OUTLET Two yellow lights came o
