What method can be used to determine if a fuse is blown in an appliance?

Using a visual inspection or a multimeter for continuity is the most reliable method to determine if a fuse is blown in an appliance. This approach allows for a precise assessment of the fuse's condition.

A visual inspection can involve checking the fuse for any obvious signs of damage, such as a broken filament or burnt casing. However, some fuse failures may not be immediately visible. Therefore, coupling this method with a multimeter is advantageous. A multimeter can be set to the continuity setting to test the fuse: if the multimeter beeps or shows a low resistance reading, the fuse is intact; if there is no sound or a high resistance reading, the fuse is blown. This method provides a definitive answer regarding the fuse's functionality, enabling the technician to efficiently diagnose electrical issues in the appliance.

Other options, such as smelling for burnt components, may indicate a problem but are not definitive and lack precision. Listening for unusual sounds might hint at electrical issues, but it cannot confirm the condition of the fuse. Testing the appliance's performance can also indicate issues but does not specifically identify the fuse's status.