2

Edit: Is there a way to find an open neutral between the working breaker and the first nonworking outlet without cutting open the wall. It is a pretty straight shot between the 2 with no junction boxes or known splices between.

3 outlets on 1 breaker, all hot-ground = 120V, neutral-hot and neutral-ground register nothing using a Sperry voltage tester ET6204. Using Ideal circuit tester 61-035, all 3 lights light up in all 3 outlets (top and bottom). I identified which outlet is first. Breaker hot-neutral is 120V. A window was recently replaced near the first outlet in the line. Electrical line runs barely under window in wall. Window attachment screws are in wall very near outlet. What am I looking for and could a window screw have caused the issue?

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1

Sounds like you have an open (i.e. broken or loose/disconnected) neutral wire.

Improve this answer
5
  • 1
    Am I looking for an actual broken neutral wire? It has to be between the breaker and the first outlet then, correct?
    – Heather Nalbach
    Oct 29, 2020 at 21:32
  • 1
    Broken between since you postulate screw damage, or possibly disconnected AT the first outlet (disconnected wire from outlet, outlet used backstabs and they failed, etc.), yes. Possibly a junction box connection failed between, if there IS a junction box between.
    – Ecnerwal
    Oct 29, 2020 at 21:35
  • Thanks. I rewired the outlets (was backstabs). That is actually one of the less complicated outlets. Didn't find any junction boxes between.
    – Heather Nalbach
    Oct 29, 2020 at 21:43
  • Worth turning the breaker off and checking that the neutral screws are tight on that outlet. Probably not the problem but quick and easy if it is.
    – Ecnerwal
    Oct 29, 2020 at 21:47
  • Checked screws. Checked under outlet box where wire goes in, no issue screw doesn't enter wall that far. I guess that means the problem is somewhere in the 20 feet between that outlet and the breaker box.
    – Heather Nalbach
    Oct 29, 2020 at 22:29

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.