By Dave Rongey Summary:
Electrical Outlet Question:
I recently replaced an outlet in my kitchen. It was a 20amp outlet and I connected it appropriately, using the back holes instead of screws to attach the wires.
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Electrical Outlets Question: I recently replaced an outlet in my kitchen. It was a 20amp outlet and I connected it appropriately, using the back holes instead of screws to attach the wires. I tried one with screws first, but it didn't work. This outlet is connected to two other outlets in the kitchen and I am getting nothing from this outlet when I test it!
So, I'm down three outlets in the kitchen.
What do you think might be the problem?
Julienne.
Hi Julienne - Great Electrical Repair Question! GFI Outlet or GFI Breaker
The first check I would make is to be sure a GFI outlet or breaker which may control these outlets did not trip.
Are these outlets protected by GFI?
They should be, especially the sink counter top outlets. Because you said that you tried wiring to the screw terminals before and it did not work, I am thinking that you may have a loose connection in the back of the junction box.
Inspect Electrical Wiring
So I would turn off this circuit and inspect all the wire connectors and splices very carefully.
Dave
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The Plug-In Outlet Tester
This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
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Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
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Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.
Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
This is a testing tool that is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
This is great to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring, is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect, Very handy and easy to use.
A wire stripping tool used to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.
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