How to Measure Amperage With a VOM
This article explains how to measure amperage with a VOM meter.
I recently read an article on this website that stated you must use a clamp ammeter to read amperage and that you can not read amperage with a Volt Ohm Amp Meter using leads. This is not true!
Turn the dial on the VOM meter to AC Amps and connect the leads in series with the load. To do this you must open the circuit and place the leads in the open part of the circuit so that the current goes through the leads and back to the circuit. TURN OFF THE POWER when you open the circuit and while you are connecting the leads. Turn the power back on and you will read amperage.
You can also place the leads across an open switch instead of having to disconnect wires in the circuit.
When you turn the power back on you will complete the circuit through the ammeter and the load will be energized.
After reading the amperage turn off the power and disconnect the test leads from the circuit and reconnect the wires you removed or close the switch.
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Instructions
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Turn off the power to the electrical circuit you are testing for amperage or current.
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Turn the VOM meter to A.C. Amps and connect the leads in series with the electrical load.You must open the circuit to do this or apply the leads across an open switch.
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Never place the leads in parallel with the power source or across the load. This will create a short circuit and can damage your meter.
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After you place the leads in series with the load turn the power back on and the meter will read amperage. If you are trying to read more than 10 amps you will need to use a clamp on ammeter.
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Turn the power off and remove the ammeter test leads from the circuit and reconnect the wires you disconnected or close the switch you were placing the leads around. Turn the power on after your finished reading the amperage.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure the power is off when applying the test leads and do not try to measure more amperage than the meter is capable of measuring.
