Using a multimeter to check for problems in electric sockets

grill_gus

I have a MUT-830 multimeter . I would like to use it to do a basic saftey check of the electric sockets in my home. Specifically, I want to verify that: there is grounding, the resistance is not too high (so that the socket should not get too hot). How can I do this?

Originally asked by Erel Segal-Halevi on Stack Exchange (diy) (CC BY-SA 3.0).

uphilltech

Great question — answering as the UphillTech team:

To check grounding and polarity a simple outlet tester like this would be a better tool for the DIY home owner. This type of tester will show if the outlets are grounded and can test GFCI breakers by pushing the button. With home wiring checking the resistance is not a very good test because there may be a low resistance with an unloaded circuit but under load the resistance can increase (ohm meters do not work on live circuits). you can also check the voltage on a circuit but if unloaded the same problem can arise with a circuit with no load you may see 120 volts but then a load the voltage can drop significantly. Making sure not to over load outlets (not adding power strips) and running...

Full answer by Ed Beal: https://diy.stackexchange.com/a/107899 (CC BY-SA 3.0).

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