Tools We Use: Clamp Ammeter - GreenBuildingAdvisor
Summary
The article discusses the clamp ammeter, a vital tool for electricians and energy auditors, highlighting its functionality and importance in measuring electrical consumption during energy audits.
Why It Matters
Understanding the use of a clamp ammeter is crucial for energy auditors and electricians as it allows for safe, efficient measurement of electrical consumption without disrupting circuits. This knowledge can lead to better energy management and cost savings for consumers.
Key Takeaways
- Clamp ammeters measure electrical current without disconnecting wires, enhancing safety.
- They are essential tools for energy audits, helping identify high energy consumption appliances.
- Modern clamp meters can also measure voltage, resistance, and frequency, making them versatile.
Product Guide Tools We Use: Clamp Ammeter A tool commonly found in an electrician’s toolbox can also be useful during energy audits and building investigations By RANDY WILLIAMS | February 20, 2026 More Product Guide Modern Mill Now Offers Its Rice Hull–Based ACRE Siding and Trim in Factory-Finished Options Tools We Use: ACIN FlowFinder Diagnostic Tools We Use: Portable and Wearable Ambient-Gas Monitors Introducing the SWERVAIR Energy-Recovery Ventilator Full disclosure: I’m both an energy auditor (Building Analyst Technician and Building Analyst Professional) and a licensed journeyman electrician. That training provides a level of knowledge—and the confidence—to work safely around live electrical equipment. Electricity can be dangerous. If you’re not trained, don’t work on energized systems.More than half of the energy audits I perform start with the same complaint: our electric bill is too high. Sometimes the cause is building-related—a leaky enclosure or inefficient heating and cooling system. At other times it’s much simpler: a piece of equipment using more electricity than expected. Electric space heaters and dehumidifiers are a couple of common problem appliances I find.Measuring electricityThere are several ways to measure electrical consumption. Plug-in meters, such as the Kill-A-Watt, work well for cord-and-plug appliances. Some newer load centers or service panels and smart breakers—such as systems from SPAN and Leviton Manufacturing—track usage in real time and ...
