Electrical Testing Tips

Batteries to appliances – testing electrical equipment is easier than most would imagine. Electricity is converted into other forms of energy by electrical devices. Small and large appliances such as telephones, computers, lighting, etc. convert electricity into cold, heat, light, images, sound and other important and useful services. A low-cost multimeter or a continuity tester is all you require to undertake testing of electrical appliances at home. You can purchase a continuity tester from the nearest hardware store for less than four GBP. A multimeter can be purchased for around 15 GBP.

The amount of power being applied (voltage), electricity being used (current), and the resistance required to complete the task are the units that a multimeter measures. Power is counted in volts (V), resistance in ohms (O) and current is measured in amps or amperes (A). ‘Watt’ is a term most of us are familiar with, and defining it will prove beneficial when fixing your electrical appliances. The amount of power used by a running electrical device is called a watt. A toaster, for instance, will use around 750W of power to toast your sourdough, rye or wheat bread each morning.      

 

Using a Continuity Multimeter

 Electricity flows in a continuous circuit or path, from one point to another. If a path is blocked, electricity will not flow. Continuity testers are used to check wires and cords to ensure that electricity is conducted. When you get a continuity tester, the cord must be disconnected from the source of power (electrical receptacle). Ensure that the switches on the tester are on. The clip of the tester must be placed on one point of the cord and the tester’s tip must touch the other point. Light will be produced by the tester if there’s continuity. 

 

Using a Multimeter

 A volt-ohmmeter (VOM) as it is also called, a multimeter is an alternate way to test continuity. The amount of direct current or alternating current can be measured using a multimeter. Voltage can also be checked using a VOM. For instance, it can tell you if a battery has been fully charged or if there are 120V in an alternating current circuit. A multimeter can also be used to check resistance.

 VOMs can be used to test switches, motors, controllers and a host of other electrical devices. A multimeter can be used by anyone to check for defects in a gadget or appliance at home. To use a VOM, make sure that the cord is disconnected from the source of power if a live circuit is being tested. The test leads must be plugged into the tester and then you must choose the function (resistance or DVC or AVC). The range must also be selected and then the probes must be connected to the appliance component or the cord. The meter will give you a reading which you can interpret referring to the appliance manual. The manual will have tips on how to identify what is wrong with the device and how to fix it.   

 AUTHOR BIO :

Grace is an expert associated with PASS Ltd., providers of safety services and tips for electrical testing of portable appliances. For more information, you can visit http://www.pat-services.co.uk/megger-mft1710-multifunction-installation-tester-1785.htm

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