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| Measure maximum current draw from home appliances |
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| Tman:
Hi Guys! (I'm new here) Just starting to play with batteries, grid tie inverters and I need to do some planning around the max power consumption of certain appliances. I don't have an oscilloscope so can someone help me the best (cost effective) ways to see what the initial current (power) draw is when an appliance starts. Thanks! |
| sleemanj:
plug in watt meter https://www.jaycar.co.nz/mains-power-meter/p/MS6115 https://www.mitre10.co.nz/shop/elto-power-meter/p/103559 https://www.bunnings.co.nz/arlec-energy-cost-electrical-meter_p04410270 |
| Old Printer:
An oscilloscope would not be the tool to make that measurement. A multi meter setup to measure current (amps) would do it if it either has data logging or has a high low function which would save the highest reading. The running power consumption is usually listed in watts on the produce lable. Watts divided by voltage gives you the current draw in amps. Two DMMs, one setup to measure volts and the other to measure current would be what I would use. Welcome to the forum. |
| Muttley Snickers:
I noticed one of those power meters yesterday at Aldi for $15, I don't know if they are any good or if they are able to capture and display the initial inrush or startup current, I doubt they have this ability. I would keep the receipt and return the device if found to be unsuitable for your requirements. For testing mains powered devices and equipment I wired up an inline box so as to split and separate the active from the neutral, I can then conduct measurements with either a clamp meter or multimeter and the minimum/ maximum feature on these meters is ideal for this type of testing. Aldi Watt Meter. www.bauhn.com.au/product-listing/power-meter-1 |
| MarkF:
I would recommend a clamp on meter that has the capability to measure in-rush current. You will need to measure motor start current in addition to the motor run current. The start-up (inrush) current can be many times larger than the steady state run current. The Fluke 374 or similar. |
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