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Socket Outlet Continuity

Former Community Member
Former Community Member
Hi,

This is my 1st post so please be kind to me........ ?

Whilst carrying out Ring Main Continuity either r1-rn and/or r1-r2 I have been getting differing results at various sockets by way of the plug top tester. The ring tests out fine when using probes on the back of the sockets. For example the healthy r1-rn was 0.4. At some sockets using the plug top test a double socket would give me 0.6 onside and 1.10 on the other - but all OK testing from the terminals at the rear.

I understand that this is probably down to lack of use - is there any limit to the losses through the socket.

They all tested out OK doing Zs. 

Am I being over cautious?

Many thanks
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  • 0
    You may find if you take the plug out and wipe it and put it back a few times the reading changes too, as there are microscopic layers of what we technical people call 'grot' (*)on the contacts, that build up over time, especially with older sockets. Decent sockets with stronger springs fare a bit better as there is a wiping/scraping action as the plug goes in.


    There is no need to be alarmed, the  test meter is only using small currents and voltages, if a real fault came on, then the thin layers of oxide that form would be blown away, and the current would rise to be enough to trip the breaker.

    The 'stabbing' action of probes on the back will get through correctly, and those are the readings to be trusted.

    Mike.

    * other more descriptive words are available, especially for sockets in chip shops and similar places.
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  • 0
    You may find if you take the plug out and wipe it and put it back a few times the reading changes too, as there are microscopic layers of what we technical people call 'grot' (*)on the contacts, that build up over time, especially with older sockets. Decent sockets with stronger springs fare a bit better as there is a wiping/scraping action as the plug goes in.


    There is no need to be alarmed, the  test meter is only using small currents and voltages, if a real fault came on, then the thin layers of oxide that form would be blown away, and the current would rise to be enough to trip the breaker.

    The 'stabbing' action of probes on the back will get through correctly, and those are the readings to be trusted.

    Mike.

    * other more descriptive words are available, especially for sockets in chip shops and similar places.
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