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I'm trying to change a wall outlet and went through every single switch (one by one) at the circuit breaker to determine which is feeding the power.
The wall outlet was live throughout and doesn't seem to be connected to any one switch. Would it be possible that there are multiple switches feeding that one wall outlet?
Wouldn't be the first time I have seen an outlet fed from 2 different breaker on the same phase. Doesn't happen often, but can be a PITA to track down if you don't know what you are looking for.
Cut off the main. If the outlet is still energized, it might be a dedicated outlet for a fire alarm. Sometimes I have to just shake my head at what is considered "proper."
Circuit tracers can be bought for $20 - $30, plug in "transmitter" in the outlet and take the "wand" to the panel and touch it to each wire coming in to the panel.
That outlet is also controlled by a wall switch, I didn't think that has anything to do with it being live all the time regardless of the circuit breaker. Guess it's time for the circuit tracer.
I've also seen houses with 2 main panels, one inside and one on a pole outside. More common with mobile homes, but still a possibility.
The panel in the basement is the one I was trying but there is a panel in the garage as well. That panel has 1 big switch only. Will try that one out as well.
Ghengis is correct, a circuit tracer is a place to start. If you find the correct breaker and it still does not turn off the power; you should have ALL the breakers tested are replaced!
The answer is NO , it is impossible for a wall outlet to NOT be connected to a circuit breaker unless it is hardwired to your incoming service wires( gasp!)
The answer is NO , it is impossible for a wall outlet to NOT be connected to a circuit breaker unless it is hardwired to your incoming service wires( gasp!)
Never say never. I've seen circuits in homes that were bugged under the lugs in the meter enclosure. Seen them under the lugs feeding the main breaker, and seen them stuffed under the front of a breaker and forced over the lugs on the main buss. One house had a Square D bolt in breaker panel and wires were wrapped around bolts and bolted to the buss.
I've learned after 28 years as an Electrician you NEVER, say anything is impossible. Homeowners and Billy-Bob handyman can find ways to screw up the simplest things.
Location: Visitation between Wal-Mart & Home Depot
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Quote:
Originally Posted by betatester
How is this possible?
I'm trying to change a wall outlet and went through every single switch (one by one) at the circuit breaker to determine which is feeding the power.
The wall outlet was live throughout and doesn't seem to be connected to any one switch. Would it be possible that there are multiple switches feeding that one wall outlet?
Thanks for any advice.
Is this live by a voltage tester or live by a multimeter/"lamp test"?
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Homeowners and Billy-Bob handyman can find ways to screw up the simplest things.
