View Full Version : Problems with 120 and 240 power
dave112163
May 23, 2010, 04:15 PM
This morning some of my 120 outlets didn't work then later they did also the burner on my stove would get warm but not hot dryer also spins but doesn't get hot when I checked the breaker for the dryer is seemed all right I checked both wires going into the breaker at the same time got nothing but when I checked them individually using the ground bar in the breaker box I got 120 volts from both of them
donf
May 23, 2010, 05:05 PM
You have lost one of your phase conductors.
Using your meter (Red) probe with the black probe on ground, measure the service entrance ungrounded conductors. There should be 120 +/- VAC on each conductor. If you don't find both legs feeding the panel, call the power company.
If the feed is correct, then you should really call an electrician. Working on a live panel or even one that is off at the main breaker can get you killed or maimed if you do something dumb.
dave112163
May 23, 2010, 05:34 PM
I'm getting 120 at each leg
hkstroud
May 23, 2010, 10:00 PM
I agree with Don, you have lost one half of your service. The 120 to ground that you get when you test that side is a back circuit through some 240V appliance such as the stove or water heater.
creahands
May 24, 2010, 02:29 AM
Hi Harold
If PO shuts off all 220 breakers would this cut out feed back?
If so, the test would show no power on one leg. Is this right?
Chuck
hkstroud
May 24, 2010, 03:44 AM
Right Chuck.
creahands
May 24, 2010, 06:12 AM
Thanks Harold
Was not sure. That would make checking for lost leg easier.
Chuck
dave112163
May 24, 2010, 08:07 PM
Thanks Harold
Was not sure. That would make checking for lost leg easier.
Chuck
You where right power was feeding back through the hot water heater have a electrician coming over tomorrow to check it out thanks for the help