voltage drops from 240 to 3.2-4.5V

[sdi101]

Hi everyone. When I measure the voltage on my outlets, I get different readings. One moment it's 240v AC, a little later it reads somewhere between 2.5-4.5v . Then, in reverse it even reads less than that: 0.2v. The measurements are the same at the outlets as well as the main breaker. All appliances are working fine though. I have 2 multimeters, and both give the same results. Does anyone have any idea what might cause these voltage drops? Also, should I be worried about this?

[bankruatsteve]

Maybe not making good contact?  You're measuring between L and N, right?  Make sure multimeter on correct setting.  You also need to pull out the socket and measure on the screws.  IE: you can't just poke the probes into the socket slots.

 

[Crossy]

If the lights don't flicker then there's an issue with your measurement technique.

 

You have two meters, are you using the same test leads with both meters?

 

Try measuring a known DC voltage (your car battery is a good convenient source).

 

 

[sdi101]

Thx a lot guys. It looks like there was indeed a bad contact with my leads. They now show 240v. Thx again!