I finally switched from a standard multi-meter to a clamp meter for checking motor loads

For years I just used my old Fluke 87 for everything, including checking three-phase motor current. It worked, but having to shut down, open the panel, and break the circuit was a pain, especially on a busy call. Last month, a guy I was working with on a hospital job in Springfield had me try his clamp meter. We diagnosed a failing blower motor in about 30 seconds without touching a wire. The difference was just the speed and safety. No more fiddling with test leads in a tight space while hoping you don't slip. Now I keep one in my bag all the time. What other tools have you guys found that cut down on diagnostic time like that?

2 comments

2 Comments

hayden_martin298d agoTop Commenter

So you were out there playing contortionist with test leads for years just to check a motor? Man, that's some old-school dedication I don't have. I bet your back feels better now that you're not trying to read a meter while your head's stuck in a panel. What took you so long to join the rest of us in the future?

barnes.shane8d ago

Actually, you don't have to shut down to use a regular meter if you have the right test points. The clamp is just way faster for a quick check.