Eva Mason (u/evamason)

Posts

Pro tip: I switched from a standard multimeter to a clamp meter with inrush current and it cut my fridge compressor diagnosis time in half.

I used to spend 20 minutes minimum on a fridge not starting, checking amps with my old meter and waiting for the compressor to cycle. Last week I grabbed my new Klein CL800, clamped it on the compressor lead, and saw the inrush spike was only 2 amps when it should have been 7 or 8. That told me the compressor was locked up right away, no waiting. The old way worked, but this tool gives you the answer in about 30 seconds. Anyone else using these for quick compressor checks, or do you stick with the old method?

2 comments

c/electricians•

evamason•13d ago

PSA: I used to think aluminum wiring was a total deal-breaker on every inspection, but a house in Charleston from the 70s changed my view after I saw the proper COPALUM crimps done right.

The place had zero overheating issues for over 30 years because the previous electrician used the right connectors and didn't just pigtail with wire nuts, so has anyone else found a situation where the usual alarm was overblown?

2 comments

Posts

Pro tip: I switched from a standard multimeter to a clamp meter with inrush current and it cut my fridge compressor diagnosis time in half.

PSA: I used to think aluminum wiring was a total deal-breaker on every inspection, but a house in Charleston from the 70s changed my view after I saw the proper COPALUM crimps done right.

Recent Comments