How to Use an Electrical Tester

Electricity can be dangerous and scary if you don't have the proper tools and equipment to handle it. However, it is common to experience minor electrical issues in your homes like a damaged outlet or a malfunctioning light fixture, among many others. An electrical tester can help you assess for damage when such problems happen to determine the precise location of the affected area. If you are wondering how you can effectively use an electrical tester, HomeOps Electric has the information you need. Our licensed electricians are well-trained and equipped, guaranteeing exceptional electrical repair service.

How a Non-Contact Voltage Tester Works

Electrical problems usually occur at the least expected time, which makes knowing how to use a tester an advantage. There are many different testers, but the non-voltage tester is the most common. A non-contact voltage tester alerts the user if an electrical component has live current through warning lights and beeping. The safety devices make it safe to test outlets, electrical wires, lights, and light switches before repairs. If you detect a failing electrical component, it's advisable to contact HomeOps Electric and leverage our electricians' extensive industry knowledge and expertise. Here are some ways you can test electrical components in your home.

A Light Switch

It is easy to test your light switch using a non-contact voltage tester that doesn't require a lot of expertise. The first step involves flipping the switches several times to ensure no light's turning on and the power is turned off. If the power is still on, you should ensure it is off by flipping the circuit breaker in the main panel box.

Place the tip of the tester on each terminal or screw to test for the presence of live power before proceeding with any repairs or replacements. Once the power is off, remove the cover plate at the light switch in question for easy access to the terminal. If there's no warning noise from the tester, you can detach the switches by pulling them from the wall to test individual wires. However, if you prefer a hands-off approach, HomeOps Electric can help you access quality electrical repair service from professional electricians.

Outlet

Testing an outlet using your non-contact electrical tester is much easier than testing a light switch. If you want to test outlets around your home for power safely, the first step is to insert the tip of the tester into the holes of the outlet. The power should be turned off at the main panel box to prevent electrical hazards like electrocution. After ensuring that all the outlets in your home are dead, you can unscrew the wall plate to better access the individual wires.

While using an electrical tester is easy with the right information, it doesn't mean you are ready to handle complex repairs. With dozens of wires in the outlet box, it's important to ensure you test all of them to ensure they don't have live current. Contact us at HomeOps Electric, and schedule an appointment with our team of expert electricians.