Appliance Repair Electrical Theory Learning Quiz

Introduction This quiz is designed to help Appliance technicians learn, test their knowledge, or just provide a review of their existing knowledge of electrical theory as it applies to appliance repair. Each question will have an associated answer – helping solidify your knowledge of electricity. So let’s test your knowledge. How Many Questions can you […]

What is a Ghost Voltage?

A “ghost voltage” is an electrical potential that appears on an undefined conductor due to capacitive coupling via proximity to other conductors or by electromagnetic induction. A ghost voltage has almost no ability to source any current and may simply disappear if any kind of a load is connected to it. Further, a ghost voltage […]

Compromised Voltage Sources

Introduction Wouldn’t it be great to have a battery that could supply an infinite current? Your flashlight could run on AA batteries, yet have infinite brightness! You could start a car with a standard 9v battery! Such batteries would be “ideal” voltage sources. Now, enter reality. What is a Voltage Source? A voltage source is […]

LoZ Meter FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions about LoZ Meters is another in a series of FAQS about electricity and electronics that are oriented toward Appliance Technicians and HVAC Technicians. Frequently Asked Questions about LoZ Meters Q. What is a LoZ meter?A. It is a multimeter that has the option for a low input impedance when measuring voltage. Using […]

When NOT to use a LoZ Meter

LoZ meters are valuable tools for identifying ghost voltages and compromised voltage sources that exhibit high impedance upstream. When troubleshooting AC mains circuits, it is generally recommended to use the LoZ mode. This mode introduces a load at the test point, which proves advantageous because the circuits being tested are typically of low impedance compared […]

Line-Voltage Testing Cheat Sheet

This blog describes a quick way to determine if you have an incoming voltage problem that is causing appliance issues. By using the provided flowchart and a LowZ meter, you can accurately identify if you have a compromised voltage source related to L1, L2, or Neutral. I have seen many approaches to determining compromised voltage […]

Klein CL800 Clamp Multimeter Review, Theory, and Usage

This article explains the usage, describes the operational theory, and provides a through review of the Klein CL800 multimeter. You will learn how to use this meter, understand the theory behind the functions, and see how these functions compare to their claimed specifications. The theory behind each function, when noted, will be shown in bold […]