How to Use a Multimeter to Check for Electrical Leakage
First, set the multimeter to the 250V AC voltage range. Insert both test leads into a live socket to verify whether the multimeter reading is normal.
Next, touch one test lead to the appliance surface and connect the other test lead to the ground wire or neutral wire. The reading shown on the voltmeter is the leakage voltage. Note: during measurement, do not touch the metal parts of the test leads with your hands to prevent electric shock.
A multimeter, also known as a multitester, is an indispensable measuring instrument for power and electronics departments. It is mainly used to measure voltage, current and resistance. According to the display type, multimeters are divided into analog multimeters and digital multimeters. It is a multi-functional, multi-range measuring instrument. A general multimeter can measure DC current, DC voltage, AC current, AC voltage, resistance and audio level. Some models can also measure AC current, capacitance, inductance and some parameters of semiconductors (such as diodes).
Switch the multimeter to the AC voltage range. Connect one test lead to the outer casing of the equipment and the other test lead to the ground wire. If the equipment has no dedicated protective ground wire, connect it to the ground pin of a three-pin socket (earth at the top, neutral on the left and live on the right). The AC voltage reading obtained is the leakage voltage. This is the method to check electrical leakage of appliances with a multimeter.
