How to Check for a Bad Home Electrical Socket

Electrical wiring and sockets corrode and malfunction over time. The two main problems that plague electrical power sockets are a lack of power or short circuits within the wiring. Either circumstance will cause electrical malfunctions. A short circuit creates the added danger of fire, and you should immediately stop using any electrical outlets that you think have stopped working. Troubleshooting bad electrical outlets consists of several tasks.

Multimeter
Philips head or flathead screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Plug in an electrical appliance that you know is in working condition. If it doesn't work or seems to lack enough power, you can deduce that the outlet isn't getting sufficient voltage.
- 2
  Set a digital multimeter to measure AC voltage and insert the red and black test leads into the hot and neutral prongs. You will get an approximate reading of 110 or 120 volts if it is functioning fully.
- 3
  Put your hand to the outlet faceplate to check for excess warmth. Excess resistance created by loose contacts or a short circuit will create heat.
- 4
  Cut power to the outlet at the circuit breaker.
- 5
  Allow charge to dissipate and change the multimeter's setting to measure resistance/impedance. You will get a nonzero measurement; a zero measurement indicates a short circuit, or no resistance.
- 6
  Remove the outlet faceplate and inspect the connections at the terminals. A functional outlet will have no burn marks, loose wires or any sign of damage.
- 7
  Replace the plate and turn power back on. Call a licensed electrician to make any repairs.

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