A pocket voltage detector * Easy way to test if electricity is present * An example, if your light is not working take the light bulb out and check to see if there is power going to the light * Safe way to test voltage, you don't have to expose a live contacts * An example, if you take that same light, remove the switch cover you can see if there is power present at the switch * Link to purchase detector Receptacle tester * A safe, easy, and thorough way of testing most receptacles (for people who are not inspectors that mean outlets) * There are three lights of which any assortment of will light up, look on the tester for the code conversion * For a little more money you could upgrade to a GFCI receptacle tester What to check before calling an Electrician 1.
Has a breaker tripped? * Turn breaker to "off" position, then "on" If your breaker keeps tripping your breaker might be overloaded, Try unplugging all items on the circuit.
If the breaker still trips, call On Call.
If the breaker stays on for 10 minutes, start plugging your items back in one at a time to give the wires plenty of time to heat up and trip the breaker again if need be.
If a device trips the breaker, that might be "the straw that broke the camels back" and you need to plug something in on a different circuit.
It also might mean that device has reached the end of it's life.
So sad, but at least you didn't have to call out an electrician to tell you.
If you need more help resetting your breaker check out this web sight Tips on breakers reset 2.
Is the item in question under warranty? Furnaces, Hot water heaters, Boilers might have a warranty.
You need to call the warrantier.
3.
Is there an outage in your area? It is common for only one phase (about half) your house to go off with power company issues.
Check with your neighbors adjacent with you and see if they have full power.