What is an ammeter and how is it used with a kiln?
The clamp-on ammeter measures the amps that the kiln draws and can help you diagnose kiln problems. At Paragon we consider it one of our most useful tools. To find your kiln’s rated amperage, see the electrical data plate. It is attached to the side of the kiln’s switch box on most models. If an element or a relay burns out, the kiln will draw less amperage. Before checking the amps, check the voltage under load with a voltmeter. (Low voltage will cause low amperage, too.) The ammeter is simple to use, as you will see from these instructions. But since you will be exposed to live wires, only a qualified repair person or electrician should perform the ammeter test. 1) Read the instructions that came with the ammeter. 2) Shut off the circuit breaker for the kiln’s wall receptacle or unplug the kiln. 3) Open the kiln’s switch box. (It is the enclosure that contains the kiln’s switches or controller.) Place the ammeter clamp around either of the two hot wires coming into the switch box fro
