I'm not sure what is happening but it seems that maybe there was a short-circuit, and now when my fridge is plugged in, the voltage levels in the whole house change.
The two phases in the main circuit breaker panel normally show about 122v / 122v (balanced). When I plug in the fridge or turn on its breaker, the two phases show 106v and 133v. There is a visible change in lighting and audible change in fans. The fridge doesn't seem to start either.
Now this morning (after going all night with the fridge unplugged) I'm noticing the same problem resulting from the coffee maker. As the heating element cycles in/out, the voltage throughout the house is changing.
What would be happening that causes the voltage issue throughout the house? What could have been damaged to cause a problem that affects circuits throughout the house?
Best Answer
Turn everything off and call your electric company and tell them that you have a floating neutral.
This is a very dangerous condition and rates an emergency response. It is beyond the ability of the homeowner to safely repair.