Receptacles, like switches and fixtures, need to be checked with a voltage tester before you do any work on them. The test is similar for both grounded and ungrounded receptacles, except you’ll be testing for grounding as well with the former. A grounding test can only be done with the power on.
With the power off, insert both ends of your voltage tester into the slots of the receptacle. The light in the tester should not go on. If it does, the power has not been turned off, or the wrong circuit was shut off. Even if the tester bulb does not light up, you can’t be sure that the current is off. The receptacle might be damaged but still receiving a current. Remove the cover plate and carefully pull the receptacle out. Place one probe on the brass terminal, which should be connected to the black or hot wire. Place the other probe on the silver or neutral terminal. You must touch both terminals to complete the circuit. The bulb shouldn’t glow if the power has been shut off.
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