last_lemming OP 275 posts 02-21-2017 3:22pm
Will do - just so I’m clear:
hot = smaller blade
neutral = larger blade
ground = small round hole below the two blade holes.
I know I sound like a simpleton here, but I don’t want to shock myself or damage the equipment. Also I’m assuming I will not damage the equipment as long as I follow the above procedure - for instance testing hot and neutral at the same time while equipment is on.
I made several edits in my last post. You might want to reread it again.
hot = smaller blade
neutral = larger blade
ground = small round hole below the two blade holes.
Hole slot sizes on the receptacle face itself. The hot and neutral blades on the 3 wire grounding plug are the same size.
I know I sound like a simpleton here, but I don’t want to shock myself or damage the equipment.
Don’t touch the metal probes with your fingers. Just make sure to touch the far outside sides of the plug blades. When touching the safety equipment ground pin touch it from the bottom side of the pin. You can also use the metal screw that holds the duplex cover plate on.
If it makes you feel safer wrap some electrical vinyl tape around most of the metal of the probes of the meter test lead probes leaving only the metal tips exposed.
Finally If you still do not feel safe measuring the AC voltages, Don’t do it! Safety first.
Also I’m assuming I will not damage the equipment as long as I follow the above procedure - for instance testing hot and neutral at the same time while equipment is on.
No, it will not damage any of your equipment. The multimeter is a high resistance meter. The branch circuit won’t even know you are checking it out.
Take your time. Again, if you do not feel safe don’t do it!
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