Expert: Benny - 11/7/2009

Question
Benny,
Thanks for your time and help. Have two circuits at opposite ends of the house that quit working, fuses don't blow, a couple of days later start working again. Where do I begin looking and what to look for in the most probable cause order. Thank You
Dennis

Answer
Hi Dennis,

This is a tough one to solve.  It takes a lot of patience and time.  You will need a multimeter to check voltage.

Start with the breaker or fuse WHEN the power goes off.  Check the breaker or fuse on the load side (where the circuit wire connects to it) to make sure voltage is passing through it.  If voltage does not pass through it, the breaker or fuse is defective…replace it.  If voltage is passing through it the problem is in the circuit wires or devices.

To start, isolate the circuits being affected and mark every outlet and switch with painters blue tape.  Put this tape on the wall directly above the outlet and switch boxes.  After you check each outlet and switch, relocate the tape to the wall below the box.  This will help you remember which ones have been checked.

Remove each outlet and switch, one at a time, and meticulously check the devices, wires and connections.  You’re looking for looseness of connections (on the device and in the wirenuts), evidence of sparking and melted wire insulation.

If you find nothing, I am recommending you get a licensed electrician to finish the troubleshooting.  They will have to check the continuity of the wires between the outlets and switches to look for breaks or shorts.  Leave the blue tape on so they will not have to locate everything again.

I hope this has helped.  If you need additional information please send me a follow-up question.

Thanks and have a nice day,

Benny