How to Test Electric Heating Element - heatingelementsinc
This is a general guide to test any type of heating element for failure using an multimeter to measure the resistance of the element.
Instructions
1. Assuming that a visual inspection of the element has been done or isn't possible.
2. First we need to know what the resistance of the element should be this can be calculated using known values:
3. R = (V x V) / P [Where V is the voltage powering the element, P is the power the element uses and R is the resistance.] (An example calculation is shown in the tips section)
4. Now we Know what resistance we are looking for we can check the element.
5. Set the multimeter to the resistance setting with an appropriate measuring scale selected.
6. With the power off, Unplugged or by other means disconnected from the mains. Measure the resistance of the heating element by connecting the multimeter leads across the terminals of the heating element.
7. If the reading is the same or very close to that of the calculated value then the element is OK and the fault lies elsewhere.
8. If the reading is a lot higher than the calculated value the element is failing and wont be heating fully.
9. If the reading is a lot lower than the calculated value the element is failing and will be heating to much or not at all if part of the element has exploded.
Note: Take care when dealing with electricity. If you're not confident in your ability to work with electricity then don't do it. Ask some one who is, such as an electrician or an electrical engineer.
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Instructions
1. Assuming that a visual inspection of the element has been done or isn't possible.
2. First we need to know what the resistance of the element should be this can be calculated using known values:
3. R = (V x V) / P [Where V is the voltage powering the element, P is the power the element uses and R is the resistance.] (An example calculation is shown in the tips section)
4. Now we Know what resistance we are looking for we can check the element.
5. Set the multimeter to the resistance setting with an appropriate measuring scale selected.
6. With the power off, Unplugged or by other means disconnected from the mains. Measure the resistance of the heating element by connecting the multimeter leads across the terminals of the heating element.
7. If the reading is the same or very close to that of the calculated value then the element is OK and the fault lies elsewhere.
8. If the reading is a lot higher than the calculated value the element is failing and wont be heating fully.
9. If the reading is a lot lower than the calculated value the element is failing and will be heating to much or not at all if part of the element has exploded.Tips
- If you don't know the value of the voltage used by the element you could measure the voltage between the terminals of the heating elements with the device powered and on.
- Lets take an 800W kettle as an example:
- P = 800W,
- V = 230V (UK mains voltage),
- R = (230 x 230) / 800 = 66.1 Ohms
Heatingelementsinc have built an unrivaled reputation for electric heating elements quality and reliability over the past 7 years. We formulate highly skilled and experienced personnel working with the finest raw materials. The electric heater, cartridge heater and heating tube we manufacture undergo strict quality control and detailed product testing routines.
Warnings
Note: Take care when dealing with electricity. If you're not confident in your ability to work with electricity then don't do it. Ask some one who is, such as an electrician or an electrical engineer.
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