I want to change a single socket for a double, obviously first shutting the power off for the relevant circuit at the consumer unit.
What is the best way to be sure the circuit is dead, with no voltage? Posts I've been reading suggest that neon screwdrivers and voltage sticks may not be the most reliable. I've bought a cheap £10 multimeter from Maplins. Is it best to use the multimeter to check if the circuit is dead? How would I do this? Would I simply touch the black lead to the black (or blue) terminal at the back of the socket, then touch the red lead to the red (or brown) terminal? If the circuit is still live, wouldn't I get a shock doing this? Can all circuits in the house be checked in a similar way?
I've got a healthy respect for electricity, so obviously don't want to do anything wrong!
Thanks in advance.
What is the best way to be sure the circuit is dead, with no voltage? Posts I've been reading suggest that neon screwdrivers and voltage sticks may not be the most reliable. I've bought a cheap £10 multimeter from Maplins. Is it best to use the multimeter to check if the circuit is dead? How would I do this? Would I simply touch the black lead to the black (or blue) terminal at the back of the socket, then touch the red lead to the red (or brown) terminal? If the circuit is still live, wouldn't I get a shock doing this? Can all circuits in the house be checked in a similar way?
I've got a healthy respect for electricity, so obviously don't want to do anything wrong!
Thanks in advance.