If you are a technician, you need a specialized HVAC multimeter for accurate readings. Making a wrong decision can make everything wrong from the beginning. Once understand the importance of the best HVAC multimeter, you can choose one from the list below:
Here are the best hvac multimeters you can buy in 2024:
- Best Overall: Fluke 116 HVAC Multimeter
- Easy To Use: Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter
- Easy To Hold: Fieldpiece HS33 Multimeter
- Non-Contact Voltage Detection: Amprobe AM-530 Multimeter
- Budget Options: Crenova Digital Multimeter
- Best For Automotive HVAC: JASLEEN Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
| 6 Best HVAC Multimeters | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Fluke 116 HVAC Multimeter | |
Easy To Use | Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter | |
Easy To Hold | Fieldpiece HS33 Multimeter | |
Non-Contact Voltage Detection | Amprobe AM-530 Multimeter | |
Budget Options | Crenova Digital Multimeter | |
Best For Automotive HVAC | JASLEEN Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter | |
Best Overall: Fluke 116 HVAC Multimeter
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- Expensive
Are you looking for a multimeter that is good at all basic aspects? If so, the Fluke 116 HVAC multimeter is what you need.
First, the manufacturer said that it is specifically designed for HVAC applications. Its micro-amps help you test flame sensors. This product meet the professional requirements because it can prevent false readings that are caused by ghost voltage. If you usually work in areas with poor-lighting conditions, its large white LED back light can illuminate detailed things.
Specifically, in spite of a compact size that allows you to use it with one hand, this model can measure resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance.
| Fluke 116 HVAC Multimeter Specifications | |
|---|---|
Item weight | 1.4 Pounds |
Voltage | 600V |
Current | 600 μA |
Special features | Built in thermometer Microamps Large white LED backlight |
The Fluke 116 HVAC Multimeter is the best overall option because it is good at all basic aspects.
Easy To Use: Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter
- Large and easy-to-read LED display (solid readings)
- Durable
- Great price
- Short leads
Are you a first-time user of a multimeter? If so, it's better to choose an easy-to-use model like the Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter. The latter has many auto features and functions, so there is no need to apply too many manual actions.
First, its automatic ranging true root mean square technology can increase accuracy without requiring you to use any skill.
No matter how well the lighting condition is in your place, its high visibility, reverse contrast display with an optical sensor can also optimize viewability.
| Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter Specifications | |
|---|---|
Product dimensions | 10.63 x 5.87 x 3.73 inches |
Item weight | 12.17 Ounces |
Voltage | 1000V |
Current | 10A |
Special features | Automatic ranging true root mean square (TRMS) technology Reverse contrast and optical sensor Low battery indicator |
The Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter is designed for first-time users because it is very easy to use.
Easy To Hold: Fieldpiece HS33 Multimeter
- Durable
- Great price
- Easy to learn how to use
- A bit complicated for beginners
Just looking at the product picture, you can easily recognize that this is an easy-to-hold multimeter. Invest in this model, if you need one of the following benefits:
This design allows you to hold and work with it for a long time without being tiring because it won't put strain on your hands.
Its enhanced grip is helpful to use in various working conditions such as tight spaces and slippery environments since you can control it better without causing accidental slips and drops.
The steadier and more secure your hand can hold the multimeter, the more accurate the readings are. This device can keep your hand from shaking which affects your results. This feature is especially useful for measuring small currents and voltages that require accurate measurements.
This design allows you to hold the multimeter with one hand to perform one-handed tasks conveniently and effectively.
| Fieldpiece HS33 Multimeter Specifications | |
|---|---|
Product dimensions | .5 x 2.75 x 11.75 inches |
Item weight | 1 pound |
Special features | Non-contact Voltage High Voltage and Continuity Indicators MIN / MAX and Data HOLD |
The Fieldpiece HS33 Multimeter lets you hold it in your hand steadily and security to perform hard tasks easily.
Non-Contact Voltage Detection: Amprobe AM-530 Multimeter
- Sturdy leads
- Easy to see readout
- Accurate
- Automatically turns off after 20 seconds
In most cases, any multimeter needs to contact leads to take readings. The Amprobe AM-530 Multimeter also has a set of detachable test leads for this function. However, it also has a non-contact voltage detector that helps you read the results without requiring you contact with the circuit.
| Amprobe AM-530 Multimeter Specifications | |
|---|---|
Product dimensions | 4 x 10 x 2 inches |
Item weight | 0.78 Pounds |
Voltage | 600V |
Frequency | 10 megahertz (MHz) |
Current | 600V |
Special features | True-rms Audible continuity Non-contact voltage detection Built-in flashlight |
The Amprobe AM-530 Multimeter allows you to take readings by using leads and non-contact voltage detection.
Budget Options: Crenova Digital Multimeter
- Accurate
- Hard case
- Advanced features
- A little slow
Do you have a tight budget? Do you worry if a cheap device can measure an accurate reading or not? The answer is yes if you use the Crenova Digital Multimeter. Despite a cheap price, it is functional enough to give you an exact result.
Unlike old models with 2000 count, displaying 1999 with a low accuracy, this multimeter has 6000 count resolution that provides a wider range for more accurate readings.
This device can be used in various applications such as voltage, current, capacitance, diodes, frequency, continuity, resistance, and temperature.
Thanks to the NCV detector, you can easily and safely detect voltage with buzzer beeps touching no wire.
| Crenova Digital Multimeter Specifications | |
|---|---|
Product dimensions | 7.09 x 3.35 x 1.97 inches |
Voltage | 600 |
Frequency | 10Hz |
Current | 600μA |
Special features | Multifunctional Double fuse protection Silicone cover 6000 counts LCD display Backlight function Non-contact voltage detector |
In spite of a cheap price, the Crenova Digital Multimeter is very functional, secure, and accurate.
Best For Automotive HVAC: JASLEEN Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
- Good price
- Stable
- Not very accurate at low amperage readings
The manufacturer said that the JASLEEN Auto-ranging digital multimeter is designed for automotive HVAC because of the following features:
With 6000 counts of resolution, this multimeter can provide you with a higher accuracy level.
Normally, automotive work requires you to work in tight spaces. This compact, lightweight design allows you to handle things in hard-to-reach areas easily.
It comes with a built-in flashlight non-contact voltage detection data logging functionality, so you can test automotive HVAC tests more conveniently.
| JASLEEN Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter Specifications | |
|---|---|
Product dimensions | 7.99 x 4 x 2.36 inches |
Item weight | 4.83 Ounces |
Frequency | 60Hz |
Current | 6A |
Special features | 1mA resolution and sensitivity Dual line display 6000 counts display Non-contact voltage detection |
The JASLEEN Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter is designed for automotive HVAC tasks.
How To Choose The Best HVAC Multimeter?
What Is The Best Type Of Multimeter For An HVAC System?
There are 2 basic types of multimeters: analog and digital.
Analog meter is an original multimeter that just can do basic tasks. Specifically, it can measure more than 2 electrical properties, and display readings by using a needle and a gauge. It transfers the voltage, amperage, or resistance to the gauge by using contacts or leads.
Meanwhile, the digital meter is designed with sensors, circuit boards, and other electronic components inside, so it’s easy to use and more accurate than an analog meter. You can read results from the leads and display them on a digital readout.
Is Accuracy Important To HVAC Technicians?
Any HVAC technician needs a multimeter that is as accurate as possible because they have to diagnose why a control board doesn’t work properly. Their tools should offer different readings such as voltage, amperage, resistance readings, and temperature since HVAC technicians will use this device on many types of models (pump, motor, control board, and compressor).
Do HVAC Technicians Need A Temperature Probe?
After repairing or adjusting, this feature will help you determine if the system is working as it should be. Specifically, the temperature probe of a HVAC multimeter can take readings from inside ductwork, refrigerant lines, and heating water systems, so it’s useful in a commercial setting. However, it is less vital in a residential setting.
Which Additional Features Do HVAC Technicians Need?
Automatic shutoff function will disable the multimeter after a certain period to save battery life.
Low-battery indicators tell you when it’s time to charge your device.
LED displays with back lights allow you to read results easier in low-light conditions.
Wireless data transfer is beneficial for HVAC technicians to check how the adjustments affect the large system in commercial settings from over 100 feet through Bluetooth or a wireless app.
Which Model Is Safe?
Safety is the top priority of most people. If this is also what you want, choose a model with safety standards such as UL, CE, IEC, and CAT safety ratings.
Which Brands Make The Best HVAC Multimeter?
Klein Tools
Klein Tools brand that was founded by Mathias in 1857 is famous in the electrical and utility industry.
What is the best part of this brand?
Their high-quality hand tools are designed for professionals in electrical construction and telecommunication fields. Some of the specific product lines include screwdrivers, pliers, wire strippers, cable cutters. All of them have a sturdy construction, ergonomic designs, and precision engineering, especially, many of them are made from high-quality materials like forged steel.
Their tools also meet the requirements of safety to minimize the risk of injuries. For instance, the insulated tools meet stringent industry standards and offer protection from electrical shock.
Their products are applied with many innovative features such as integrated wire strippers, multifunctional pliers, and specialized grips.
FAQs
What is a HVAC multimeter?
A HVAC meter is a digital multimeter. HVAC technicians use it to measure many electrical parameters in heating ventilation and air conditioning systems. Even it has functionalities of a voltmeter, ammeter and ohmmeter.
Any multimeter is designed with a digital display that provides you with accurate readings. Besides, there are many test leads and probes that help you connect to the circuit and component easily. Some of them offer extra features such as logging peak hold and backlit displays which are more functional and easier to use.
How do I know what multimeter I need?
This depends on your needs. For example, a basic digital multimeter (DMM) is effective enough for electronics. But, in case you have to measure higher current or require advanced features like data logging, consider a specialized multimeter.
Make sure that your multimeter can handle the desired range of your application because there are different measurement ranges of voltage current resistance. Normally, high-end versions have wider measurement ranges and higher accuracy.
What multimeter do HVAC techs use?
HVAC techs will use a multimeter that has built-in temperature sensors or separate thermocouple probes for exact temperature measurement because they need to measure temperatures in many locations.
HVAC systems usually use capacitors to store electrical energy, so HVAC techs need a multimeter that can measure capacitance to test and troubleshoot capacitors in the system.
It's better if the multimeter can measure duty cycle to diagnose problems in HVAC systems, using pulse-width modulation signals.
The multimeter must measure low current levels in the micro-amp range to troubleshoot flame sensors gas valves and other components, operating on a low current timely.
Normally, HVAC systems can produce irregular and non-sinusoidal waveforms, so a HVAC multimeter that comes with back light and True RMS will help you read accurate results easier.
If your multimeter has a built-in clamp, technicians can measure current without breaking the circuit. This is helpful to measure current on a large conductor without requiring separate current probes.
HVAC techs usually work with high voltage, so a multimeter with safety ratings can protect them from hazardous situations.
Can high voltage damage air conditioner?
Yes, high voltage can certainly damage your air conditioner because it causes the compressor and other components to malfunction. Besides, this can cause the electric components of the air conditioner to overheat, leading to a fire hazard.
What voltage is HVAC?
Typically, HVAC systems run with different voltage levels depending on the specific components of the system.
- For residential settings, HVAC will run on standard household voltage (120-240 volts).
- For commercial and industrial applications, HVAC requires higher voltages (208-480 volts).
Conclusion
To choose the best HVAC multimeter, you must determine your needs - what you use it for, for example. If not, you can cause a wrong mistake from the beginning.
