AC High Voltage Tester: When Should You Use One?

Electricity is an essential part of our daily lives. Though electric products tend to make our lives easy, they can also be dangerous and threaten our lives if not handled with care. Certain safety protocols need to be followed when working with or repairing high-voltage equipment. The AC high voltage tester is one such equipment that ensures safety when dealing with high-voltage equipment. But when should you exactly use an AC high voltage tester? In this post, we will understand the importance and usage of this tester.

Understanding the AC High Voltage Tester

The AC high voltage tester is designed to detect and measure the high alternating current (AC) voltages in the electric systems. These testers are used by electricians, and other professionals who are working with high-voltage electrical installations. It confirms whether the circuit is live (carrying current) or de-energized (no voltage is present). The voltage tester’s role is to measure the voltage in the equipment ranging from a few hundred volts to a thousand volts, depending on the specifications of the application. 

When Should You Use an AC High Voltage Tester?

So, now that you understand the importance of the AC high voltage testers, let us understand the key situation in which the usage of this electric measuring equipment becomes important.

• Before Performing the Electric Repairs:

The very first step towards confirming whether the electricity is live in the wires is to check it with the tester. It will reduce the risk of electric shocks. Using the AC high voltage tester before you start the maintenance work will help you confirm that the equipment is de-energized and safe to work on. Say, for example, when you open the panel of the high-voltage equipment, it is essential to use this tester to check whether any voltage is present.

• Installing & Replacing the Electrical Equipment:

When the electrical components break down or fail to work, then replacement or installation of new ones is needed. Whether you are installing a new circuit breaker, wiring a new outlet, or replacing a transformer. Using a high-voltage tester helps you verify the power supply to the system that has been disconnected and that there is no active voltage present that can cause accidents or mishaps during the installation process. It is also advised to follow the proper lockout/ tagout (LOTO) procedures to ensure that the system is not live.

• Troubleshooting Electric Circuits:

When repairing the electric circuit, it is important to understand at what voltage level the circuit is energized. They play an essential role in diagnosing electrical issues, especially when troubleshooting electrical faults like short circuits or open circuits. If you feel like the circuit is malfunctioning due to the improper voltage, use a high-voltage tester to verify the voltage needs are correct and if the system is operating as expected. 

• Performing Inspections:

The electrical safety inspectors use the AC high voltage testers to inspect the electrical equipments at home, commercial buildings and even the industrial systems. It ensures that the equipment is safe and compliant with the regional or national electrical codes. It may include checking the power lines, transformers, circuit breakers, and other electrical components.

• System Failure:

If there is any kind of system failure, it is important to check whether all the components of the electrical equipment are properly de-energerized before you go ahead to check the electrical system for maintenance. These tests are an effective way to ensure that everything is safe and ready for further inspection.

• Preventative Maintenance:

Heavy-duty electrical equipment requires regular maintenance to ensure that everything is working fine. The AC high voltage testers are used during the routine safety checks to measure the voltage levels and ensure that the system is operating within the safe parameters. 

Regularly inspecting the equipment can help you prevent issues like voltage surgers, grounding surgers, and insulation breakdowns that can lead to castropric electronic component failures. These testers can help you identify potential threats before they turn into real issues. 

• Using High-Voltage Equipment in an Industrial Setting:

In the industrial setting, there are so many active high-voltage equipment such as power plants, factories, and substations. In such an environment, it is essential to use the AC high voltage testers regularly to not compromise the safety of operations. If being used in the electrical equipment-making industry, it may also be required to test the functioning and quality of the newly manufactured electrical products.

Wrapping Up….

Using the AC high voltage tester is essential in a lot of situations when using a high-quality electrical system. When you are conducting routine inspections, performing maintenance, repairs, or troubleshooting the electrical issues. It is essential to always priortize safety and confirm that the system is de-energized before you start working on the electrical equipment. It will help you protect yourself and your co-workers, especially in a high-risk environment. 

You should invest in the most reliable and standard AC high voltage tester from the renowned ‘SB Electrotech’. They have a wide range of testing features, which means that you will not have to depend on any kind of assumption and thus help you maintain safe environment and gain profit in business. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is an AC High Voltage Tester?

This is a high-quality tester that is used to assess the insulation strength and detect the fault in the electrical equipment by applying a controlled, elevated AC voltage.

• How Does the AC High Voltage Tester Work?

There is a built-in sensor at the tip of the tester, which helps in detecting the presence of voltage when checking a conductor, outlet, or supply cord. When the tip glows red and beeps, it means that voltage is present.

• What are the Benefits of AC High Voltage Tester Work?

• Ensures safety

• Prevents mishaps and accidents

• Verifies the electrical equipment

• Fault detection

• Compliance with the regulation and safety standards

• What is the Maximum Voltage Check in the Tester?

The maximum voltage a tester can check varies, but many standard models can measure up to 600-1000 volts AC or DC, while specialized high-voltage instruments are needed for higher ranges of equipment.