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86 volts to an outlet

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11-11-03, 09:17 PM

ethand

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86 volts to an outlet

I have an outlet that is only measuring 86 volts and nothing works when plugged into it. I was told this is a "loose neutral". Anyone help?

Thanks
Ethan

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11-11-03, 09:39 PM

rav12

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It could be a loose wire/contact or corrosion – not necessarily on the the neutral but also possibly the hot. I would suggest turning the breaker off, removing the outlet and cleaning the exposed wires with sandpaper or a suitable abrasive. Measure the voltage after doing this across the wires. If it is now OK also clean out the outlet contacts and try. If this does not work further investigation is called for.

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11-12-03, 03:03 PM

John Nelson

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You can narrow the search by spending $8 on a receptacle tester. It will tell you whether the problem is on the hot or on the neutral.

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