It’s especially important to make sure that the multimeter is capable of testing the voltage of the outlet. If the voltage is too high for the multimeter to measure, you may break it by trying to measure it.
Check your multimeter’s manual if you are unsure of how to turn it on.
Even though the prongs are different colors, it doesn’t matter which one you put into each side of the outlet. The colors only matter for testing circuits and other types of electrical currents. [5] X Research source
A typical reading for a household outlet in the United States is 120 volts. However, if it’s lower or higher, the outlet may be malfunctioning. Pull the prongs out of the outlet and switch off the multimeter after you’re done checking the outlet.
Look at your multimeter’s instruction manual if you are not sure how to turn it on or select the AC setting.
Do not touch the metal prong at any point while you’re doing this!
Remove the prongs from the outlet and switch off the multimeter when you’re done.
