How do you tell the difference between a 120 volt and a 240volt?

Answer 1

I think the only sure way is to put a high-impedance volt meter and measure the voltage across live and neutral. Don't forget that it's AC.

You could look at the bulbs in the lighting to see if the say 120v or 240v.

Answer 2

In the US or Canada, a 120 outlet has parallel blades for a 15 ampere circuit, and parallel blades with a T shape blade on neutral for a 20 ampere circuit, and parallel blades with a T shaped blade on hot for a 30 ampere circuit. A 220 outlet has horizontal blades. The device cord should have a matching plug. If you have added a plug or an outlet, it is your responsibility to find out what volage and current is being provided. In the UK, all outlets are 230 volts.

Answer 3

There usually is a label on the hot water heater that will tell you if it is 220 or 110. If there is no label locate where the wires connect to the hot water heater. Take a volt meter and test the voltage. Make sure the volt meter is on VAC setting and not VDC.

Answer 4

You need a voltmeter. No one should play with electricity without at least a multimeter.

Answer 5

Answer for USA, Canada and countries running a 60 Hertz supply service.

Virtually all houses built after the Second World War have a 220 volt power supply.

Answer 6

The most common way of distinguishing different voltages is to use a volt meter and read what the potential is on the meter face.