How exactly do I use a voltage testing screwdriver?!?

Question

I have just bought one of these to test what appears to be some sort of fuse/junction box which I want to remove from my electrical circuit in my house (or at least hide it under the floorboards), it doesn't seem to have any use. It's just a usual single gang box but with a fuse panel on the front and a small hole at the top right corner. Anyway, the test screwdriver comes with no instructions. I thought I only had to touch the cable with it but do I actually need to touch the bare wires? If so, would I not get shocked if it is live?! Any help is much appreciated!

Answer 1

It sounds like you've purchased a "Non-Contact Voltage Detector". If it has an "On" and "Off" position, turn it "On"; if not, just go right to step 2, which is hold it near the wire you wish to test, and see what reaction you get (some flash, some light up, some beep). To be sure it is working correctly, test it on a wire you know is energized, then on one you know is not.

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An additional Note: Under no circumstances should you locate a junction box under any finished surface; it must remain accessible without removing any of the building's finishes.

Be careful, and if you're still not sure, call in a pro.

Answer 2

I take it you re in the UK?

The box you are describing .... If it has a switch on it ..is a `Switched Fused Spur`....or if not an `Unswitched Fused Spur`...

It was probably used for connecting a heater or something like that ...If it is a proper electrical screwdriver it should be insulated to at least 500V.....

Yes you need to touch bare wire to make it light up !! ... In my honest opinion ...if you dont know what you are doing ...plaese dont try ... call a qualified electrician ...its easier quicker ...although not cheaper ..but at least you will know its SAFE !!