How do you check if electricity is off?

A voltage tester is designed to test for the presence of an electrical current. It is different from a multimeter, which can perform the same basic test, but also measures the voltage, current, resistance, and more. Both devices are useful for home electrical system repairs, and they function essentially the same. However, a multimeter requires more preparation to connect the multimeter leads to the correct jacks, select between testing AC or DC current, and to move the rotary dial to the appropriate setting for the desired test.

This added complexity is more than you need if you are just testing an outlet, light switch, wires, or even a battery for an electric current. A simple voltage tester is more affordable and easier to use. Use this guide to learn how to use a voltage tester to check if power is off before starting an electrical project.

Safety Considerations

Whenever you are dealing with the home electrical system it's important to proceed with caution to help avoid accidental electrocution. A voltage tester is one tool that can help keep you safe while you work on the electrical system, but it's necessary to note that a voltage tester can give a false reading. If the batteries are dying or the voltage tester is faulty, it may beep or vibrate while testing a dead circuit.

However, the real risk is if the voltage tester doesn't beep or vibrate while testing a live circuit. For this reason, it's recommended to test the voltage tester before every use. Additionally, it's a good idea to wear insulated gloves that can help protect you from electric shock.

Before You Begin

Receiving a false positive on a dead circuit can be annoying, but isn't as dangerous as receiving a false negative when the circuit is still live. Before using the voltage tester on a circuit, outlet, or light switch that appears dead, test the voltage tester on an outlet that you know is live to ensure that the voltage tester is functioning properly. Typically, this is a receptacle that is already verifiably powering a lamp, microwave, radio, TV, or computer.

Turn the connected device on to ensure that the outlet is live and powering the device. After this quick check, turn the device off and use the voltage tester to check the outlet for an electrical current. The tester should flash, beep, or both flash and beep to indicate that the outlet is live. If the tester does not respond, then the batteries may need to be changed or the voltage tester may be faulty.

There are three main types of voltage testers. The most common option is a contact voltage tester, which uses two metal probes to test the flow of electricity. There are also non-contact voltage testers which can detect an electrical current from about an inch away, instead of coming into direct contact with the outlet or exposed wiring. A third type of voltage tester, called a receptacle tester, is made for testing outlets. This device plugs directly into a three prong outlet to provide information about the electrical current.

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Here’s an easy way to tell if there’s power to your house.

By knowing what to look for on the new digital electricity ‘Smart Meter,’ you can determine if your electricity is ON, OFF, or if you are experiencing a local power outage.

First, you’ll need to find the electricity meter.  These are typically mounted on the side of the house, or on the back of the house.  Occasionally, the electric meter may be mounted on a ‘stand’ closer to the street.

Once you find the electric meter, you will notice a small LCD screen which flashes various numbers and letters during normal operation.  It will ‘cycle’ through this flashing routine in about 10-15 seconds. Keep your eyes on the meter. You are looking for specific “letters” as indicated in the image below.  If you look away as they flash, you’ll have to ‘catch’ them on the next cycle.

Now, if the LCD screen is blank, you have a local power outage; meaning there is NO power being supplied to the meter.  You can call ONCOR at 888-313-4747 to report the outage and/or to get an estimated time for electricity to be restored in your area.

If the LCD screen is flashing various numbers, letters, and symbols, then the meter has electricity supplied TO THE METER.

To determine if the meter is ‘ON’ or ‘OFF,’ here is what to look for: (see image)

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So, if you see the letters “OPN” — the electricity is OFF.  There is NO power being supplied PAST the meter.

There are 2 reasons the power could be off:

1.  No order has been submitted to have the electricity turned on, or

2.  The electricity has been disconnected due to non-payment of a past due bill.

  Need to submit an IMMEDIATE ORDER for TURN ON?   Call 512-827-8005

 

If you see the letters “CLS”  — the electricity is ON.  In this case, there is power being supplied through the meter and to the house.

If you see “CLS” but have no power to the house, you should search for a circuit breaker box, either next to the meter, and/or inside the house.   It’s almost certain the main breaker, or the individual breakers are in the OFF position.

Feel free to call us should you have a question or two;  we would love to help.[spacer]

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