Whether you’re a professional, hobbyist, or weekend warrior, having the proper voltage testers can make a big difference to your safety and the efficiency of your work. Essentially, a voltage tester helps you determine whether current flows into a piece of equipment. If current flows through a piece of equipment or an electrical outlet, the light or indicator of the tester will glow. Conversely, if the indicator doesn’t light up, it means that the equipment or outlet might be broken or flawed.
Let’s learn more about the specific types of voltage testers and which ones you should have in your toolbox.
Types of Voltage Tester
When testing for voltage, you can make use of specific types of voltage testers. For example, if your goal is to check for current, you will most likely need a simple neon tester. It’s the simplest type of voltage tester ideal for small projects. Besides the neon circuit testers, here are other types of voltage testers and other ways you can use them;
Analog Volt-Ohm Meter
It measures voltage or voltage changes. You can get the readings by looking at the needle pointer of the device. Permanent Volt-Ohm meters usually come as separate equipment. However, there are some cases when you can have them integrated in a multimeter device or similar.
Digital Multimeter
Primarily, digital multimeters measure voltage, resistance, and current. It’s a standard tool used in running diagnostic tests on all types of electrical equipment. Compared to its predecessor, digital multimeters provide more accurate readings. A typical modern-day digital multimeter also comes with additional features that can help you get more information about your electrical device.
Continuity Tester
The continuity tester is similar to a multimeter. However, it’s less complicated as it primarily focuses on checking whether a circuit is open or closed. Testing for a circuit’s continuity is crucial in identifying damage in a device’s critical electrical components. Continuity tests may also allow you to determine the quality of the soldering and measure resistance.
Voltage Detector
Similar to neon voltage testers, voltage detectors help you determine if current runs through an electrical device. However, instead of simply producing light signals, a voltage detector also makes sound signals to indicate a flowing current.
Non-contact Voltage Tester
Otherwise known as inductance testers, this type of voltage testing equipment is arguably the safest and easiest option to use. As its name suggests, it doesn’t require you to touch an electronic device or wire with this tester. Instead, the wand automatically senses voltage. It’s a standard option among homeowners and hobbyists.
Solenoid Voltage Tester
Solenoid volt meters detect polarity and voltage. Most electricians use this tester because it works for both AC and DC voltage that reaches a maximum of 600 volts. You can easily find one at electrical supply companies as well as retail shops.
Digital Clamp Meter
Professional electricians also have a digital clamp meter in their toolbox. Essentially, this device works as a multimeter but offers more functionalities. The jaws of the clamp meter open and close around a conductor allowing for a reading to be displayed on the meter.
Insulation Tester
An insulation tester utilises a high voltage DC charge to test and measure resistance in wires and electronic components. Primarily, it detects current leakage or broken insulation. If you have such problems, then your device or electrical system might be at risk of fire, blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers and arc faults.
Loop Tester
Loop testers can help you assess if a fuse or circuit breaker can protect your electrical system should a fault or disruption occur. It also allows you to determine if your existing circuit can disconnect fast enough to reduce risks for overheating or fire.
Find the Right Electrical Testing Tool at Metrotest
Here at Metrotest, we offer a variety of electrical testing tools. Besides voltage testers, we offer all kinds of tools that can help you maintain the safety of your appliance, electronic device, or electrical system.
Here’s a quick list of the products you can find at our shop:
| Electrical Testing Tools | Price Range |
| Insulation Testers | $715 to 3,600 incl GST |
| Loop Testers | $1080 to 3,900 incl GST |
| Clamps and Digital Multimeters | $174.80 to 375 incl GST |
| High Voltage Insulation Testers | Get a quote today! |
| Power Quality Analysers | $2,733.70 to 14,960 incl GST |
| Multifunction Installation Tester | $1,430 to 3,600 incl GST |
| Cable Location Equipment | $2,047 to 18,850 incl GST |
| RCD Testers | $333.50 to 1,430 incl GST |
Learn more about our product offers at Metrotest today! You can send us a quick message or call us at 0800 638 768.
