Why Kitchen Outlets Do Not Work

The 110 volt circuit the circuit breaker is not tripped, but appliances won’t work: Problems with 110Volt Kitchen Outlets and How to Fix Them, How to Test and Repair Kitchen Electrical Outlet Circuits. © By: Dave Rongey

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Kitchen Outlet Problems
Electrical Question: On a 110 volt circuit the circuit breaker is not tripped, but appliances won’t work.

• I have flipped the breaker numerous times.
• When I test the outlet I’m only getting about 15 volts of power on the VOM, Volt Ohm Meter.
• Could the circuit breaker be bad?
• This is in an apartment that was build in the 60’s.
• The circuit is in the kitchen 3 outlets, has worked fine up till now.

Thanks.

This electrical wiring question came from: Bruce, a Homeowner in Virginia.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Bruce.

How to Test and Repair Kitchen Electrical Outlet Circuits

Application: Repair Kitchen Outlets.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools a Voltage Tester or Plug-In Circuit Analyzer.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, the extent of the electrical repairs the number of outlets that are affected.
Precaution: Identify the kitchen outlet circuit, turn it OFF and  Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

 Problems with Kitchen Outlets and How to Fix Them

Kitchen Outlet circuits and wiring have a few specific wiring configurations that need to be considered when performing electrical troubleshooting and repairs for these outlets.

• Electrical Wire Splice
  When kitchen outlets do not work and the voltage test indicates low voltage  then it is very possible that there is a bad electrical wire splice or connection in one of the outlet boxes. The circuit breaker should be turned off  and each of the outlets  should be removed one at a time and inspected for the faulty connection.
• Repairing the Wiring
  Once the problem is found then the splice and affected electrical wiring will need to be repaired. In some instances a wire splice or loose connection to the outlet may cause the wiring to overheat which will create a faulty electrical connection which will require the splice or connections to be repaired and re-spliced.
• Replacing the Outlet
  If the outlet has been damaged then it will need to be replaced with the same type, voltage and amperage ratings. Additional  inspections would involve the circuit connections in the electrical circuit panel. These procedures are best performed by a qualified licensed electrical contractor.

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