00:00 Before you start any electrical work, here's how to test an outlet with a multimeter.
00:05 If electrical work feels intimidating, consult an electrician.
00:09 Multimeters come in a few styles, so it's a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's
00:13 instructions if you're not sure how they work.
00:15 Turn on your multimeter and set it to voltage.
00:18 Some multimeters have probe covers, so first, remove those.
00:21 Insert the black, or negative probe, into one side, and the red, or positive probe,
00:26 into the other.
00:27 For safety, always hold both probes in the same hand so you don't get shocked.
00:31 You should see a reading between 100 and 120 volts.
00:34 The process is the same on a standard 3-prong outlet, or any GFCI outlet, like you'd find
00:39 in your kitchen or bathroom.
00:40 Here, we're getting the same reading, around 120 volts.
00:43 To test that the outlet is properly grounded, insert the black probe into the outlet, then
00:47 touch the red probe onto the faceplate screw.
00:49 If it's correctly grounded, you'll see the same reading, between 100 and 120 volts.
00:54 The process is similar at your GFCI outlet.
00:56 If you need to make any electrical repairs, always turn your power off at the circuit
01:00 breaker, then test the outlet to confirm the power's off.
01:03 Now it's safe to start your repair.
01:05 When you're done, flip your circuit breaker back on, and everything should work fine.
01:08 (upbeat music)
01:11 you
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