Red Seal Appliance Service Technician Practice Exam

What tool is commonly used to measure electrical current in appliances?

1. Multimeter

2. Amperage meter

3. Voltage tester

4. Clamp meter

The correct answer is: Multimeter

The multimeter is a versatile tool that can measure various electrical parameters, including voltage, resistance, and current. When set to the appropriate function, a multimeter can effectively measure electrical current in appliances. It is commonly used by technicians because it combines several tools into one, making it convenient for diagnosing and testing electrical systems. While an amperage meter specifically measures current, it is not as multifunctional as a multimeter. A voltage tester, on the other hand, is primarily designed to check for the presence of voltage, and does not measure current directly. A clamp meter can measure current without breaking the circuit, which is useful in specific situations, but a multimeter is considered a more standard tool for varied measurements, including current. The breadth of a multimeter’s capabilities makes it the preferred choice among technicians for diagnosing a wide range of electrical issues in appliances.