Why do my outlets have 120 volts and nothing works?
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My outlets are reading 120V on my meter but when I plug something in they do not work. Why Electrical Outlets May Not be Working. |
Electric Outlets Not Working
[ad#block]Electrical Question: My outlets are reading 120V on my meter but when I plug something in they do not work.
In my house a series of outlets are reading 120V on the meter but when I plug something into any of them the device does not work. I thought it was the breaker so I turned it off then back on again, still, devices do not work. I went ahead and replaced the breaker with one that is 30amp. I am getting the same result. It is really beginning to frustrate me! I have used other voltmeters to test the plugs and all are reading 120V, but when I plug ANY device into ANY of these outlets I get nothing. What is happening?
Sincerely,
Dominick
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Dominick.
Why Electrical Outlets May Not be Working
IMPORTANT:
NEVER replace a circuit breaker with a larger size. This creates the potential to overheat the circuit wiring and which could cause a house fire!
Here are a few questions I have about the outlets that are not working:
How are you testing for voltage at the outlets?
If your testing hot to ground then make sure to also test hot to neutral.
There could be a problem where the neutral wire is open.
Did this just occur by itself, or has the wiring been altered or new wiring installed recently?
More about Electrical Outlet Problems
Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
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A 30 Amp breaker should only be used with a 10 gauge wire, not a 12 gauge or 14 gauge. A #10 wire can handle 30 amp, a #12 wire can handle 20 amp and a #14 wire can handle 15 amp.
Thanks Tom,
Yes – the amperage ratings for wire gauges and circuit breakers that you have stated are correct, and the insulation type and the application should be considered as well.
Dave