Originally Posted By: bking
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
First make sure the outlet checks normal.
If you put a quality, correctly operating digital voltmeter on the 200mv AC scale and measure between the Neut and Gnd. you should see some small AC voltages present or fluctuating on a properly wired receptacle. Even the ones close to the panel. This is due to induced signals from adjacent wires and noise and also if current is flowing on the neutral you will see some small voltages. If you get zero millivolts then you have a false ground wired at that receptacle.
It is still possible that a false ground is wired upstream and might look normal but could show up as a lower millivolt reading too. I measured from 3mv to 25mv on mine, some are long runs and I know they are wired correctly 
Practice this at home since some meters might not be correct or adequate. Don't touch the meter leads or wires with your fingers because it will cause the meter to respond. I have a BeckMan Tech 310, its over 20 years old and the best meter I have ever used. I have 28 years experience as electronics technician in several different fields.
Make sure 120v is not present between N and G before using meter on lower scale. Also make a plug and cord to get good connections, don't poke the meter leads in the socket. And Don't do this if you are not experienced with electrical testing.
other indications of common problems: 30 to 40 volts AC indicate miswiring. Basically a problem exists if you read less than one millivolt or more than three volts across the N and G. Three volt reading would only exist with a large 120v load present such as a spa pump.