120v Point to Point™ Troubleshooting Cheat Sheet

Instead of just “ohming” out components, get the “real” story by performing live brute-force point-to-point troubleshooting and force the failure to reveal itself. Please note that this guide is for qualified technicians familiar with the hazards of testing live mains circuits, and that employ adequate safety procedures. THIS BLOG IS INTENDED FOR APPLIANCE TECHNICIANS ONLY. ALWAYS USE APPROPRIATE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN WORKING WITH ELECTRICITY.

Brute Force 120v Diagnostic Method

When all else fails, this sequential troubleshooting essentially “forces” the failed portion of the 120v circuit to reveal itself. Such a systematic approach to finding failed components is a more definitive method than “ohming” parts out. I recommend using the LoZ function of your multimeter if you have it. Below is the point-to-point voltage drop testing methodology for diagnosing 120v appliances when your “Subject Load” is not energized:

Brute force point to point120v  appliance diagnostics - The Tech Circuit
Brute force point to point120v appliance diagnostics – The Tech Circuit

The above guide will provide you with a ore definitive way to find the “break” in the 120v circuit.

Recommended LoZ Meter

The Klein CL800 is a great all-around meter for field techs. It is comprehensive – including just about every feature you’d want in the field, including LoZ testing for AC and DC volts. Producing and writing such articles takes much time. I do make a commission of of any sales purchased through the following link, and I do appreciate your support. CLICK HERE FOR THE KLEIN CL800

Don’t forget:
“Diverting 10 min/day of social media time towards learning something new, is 5 hours of newfound monthly knowledge.” – SM

To DONATE to the Tech Circuit – CLICK HERE
Alphabetical Links to all Tech Circuit Articles and Blogs – CLICK HERE
Links to all Tech Circuit Cheat Sheets/Field References for Appliance/HVAC Techs – CLICK HERE

For additional electrical and electronics learning material for field techs, visit our homepage at http://www.TechCircuit.org or our Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/746823709133603.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Leave a Reply