Using a continuity tester

LAST UPDATED: 13th January 2023 by The Editorial Team

Someone using a continuity tester

Summary: Step by step guide and video showing how to use a continuity tester to check a socket outlet.

How to use a continuity tester

A continuity tester is used to check that a socket outlet with two cables connected to it is connected to the ring main. Before installing a spur the socket must not already be supplied by a spur.

Using a multimeter to test for continuity

Clip the continuity tester onto the end of one core and touch the other core with the probe.
  • Cut off the power supply to the relevant circuit from the consumer unit.
  • Either remove the fuse protecting the circuit you will be working on or switch off the MCB (miniature circuit breaker).
  • Unscrew the face-plate from the socket you want to test.
  • Disconnect the two live cores (red).
  • Clip the continuity tester onto the end of one core.
  • Touch the other core with the probe.
  • If the bulb on the continuity test is illuminated, the circuit has been completed and the socket is on the ring main and suitable to connect a spur to. If it fails to light up, it is already on a spur and cannot be used to supply one.

Important note

The colour-coding system for electric cable changed in 2006, make sure you read Electric cable and flex to view the new information.

How to test for continuity using a multimeter video

Author

The Editorial Team

The Editorial Team at lets-do-diy.com are a team of experts led by Mark Wilson. We have been creating DIY projects, articles, costs guides and product reviews since 2008. For more info see our about page.