How to Check an Electrical Outlet

Outlet Tester

1). Place the outlet tester into the wall outlet.
2). Observe and record which of the colors lights up.
3). Compare your notes with the manufacturer's instructions on the back of the tester, to determine if the receptacle is working and is wired properly.
4). Remove the tester from the outlet.

1). Place the multimeter on the AC setting, which is typically indicated by a wavy line near the switch or button. It may also be written on the device.
2). Select the proper maximum voltage setting. For example, since the voltage from the outlet will be around 120 V, do not select 100 volts as a maximum.
3). Place the black probe and the red probe into each of the openings in the outlet. The placement or polarity of the probes does not matter.
4). Observe and record the voltage measurement. For regular outlets in the United States, the reading will be from 108 to approximately 120 volts.
5). Remove the probes from the outlet.