Looking for a decent amp/volt meter to use around RV, I have a DVM, but looking for something for amps also. I'm trying to chase down the what's drawing down a fully charger battery in 3 days. I have 12.6V between the pos. post and the pos. lead with all the fuses I can find removed. Would the sensors be drawing that much? Thanks for any and all replies. Dan

I don't know if it is any good, or even what you want, but a Google search found this:https://www.amazon.com/Auto-ranging-Digital-Clamp-Meter/dp/B001VGND88

There are many choices for meters and places to buy one. I have a good one and also a cheap one and they both show the same numbers when comparing volts, ohms and amps. That clamping one is for checking current draw with higher values than an rv.

Lowes sells a Volt meter with clamp on DC measurements for about $80. They also sell one for $40 that will not measure DC amps. . .It is brown and black top that clips around one wire at a time, and can measure amperage in DC lines, as well as AC amps.The Co meter will almost always be on, and it draws a small amount of power all the time. I don't know if it is on a fused line, but it should be. The propane detector and CO meter in my RV consume 0.8 amps according to my very accurate E-Meter. The refrigerator total amps is 1.2 amps (including the CO and propane detector). So altogether it is about 35 amp hours a day, or what one of my 120 watt solar panels puts out. Good luck,Fred.

The Sears DC clamp on ammeter will give you the information you need.

I'm thinking of getting this one: Tenma clamp meter I have an older Fluke clamp meter but I want to keep that in the shop.

Handheld amp/volt meter | Good Sam Community

27 Replies

CA_Traveler
Explorer III
Jul 08, 2016
dup
CA_Traveler
Explorer III
Jul 08, 2016
Oh Mex - I got such a big laugh out of that URL typo - But some others maybe not so much???
Bemota
Explorer
Jul 08, 2016
Hi, Was telling DW what I was looking for and what I needed it for so while in town getting her stuff, she picked up a "Klein" multi-meter at Home Depot. It measures up to 10 amps, if it don't work, I can take it back. I'll try to chase down my parasites tomorrow if it quits raining !!!. Thanks to all who helped. Dan
MEXICOWANDERER
Explorer
Jul 07, 2016
The digital clamp on meter I purchased from BANGGOOOD.COM for $38 has a surprising 39.99 ampere dial selection. The accuracy so far is nothing short of amazing. Full scale setting is 400.0 amperes
wa8yxm
Explorer III
Jul 07, 2016
I do not want to dig it out just now to get the model but I have a Crafstman (Sears) Clamp on AC/DC ampmeter (yes it measures DC amps with the clamp)

I think it was around 60-70 bucks when I got it, Not that long ago.

I have many meters but that is the high current DC one. one Clamp on AC (Horrible Freight) and several assorted no clamp ranging from Free at HF to around 250 dollars (Had I paid full price) Somedays.. I just need quality.
westend
Explorer
Jul 07, 2016
lc0338 wrote:
CA Traveler wrote:

I'd love to have a $300 Fluke clampon but can't justify it for my usage.

I bought this one back in February It was $124.95 back in Feb. Good reviews
Yup, decent meter for the price. Don't spark it or put anything over a 10 amp draw on it, you'll get sticker shock when you have to replace the stock fuses.

FWIW, I found cheaper fuses that work with this series Fluke meters and your post reminded me mine are blown again. That's another $10 mistake but the stock fuses from Fluke are $50. At least there are fuses to replace, though.
CJW8
Explorer
Jul 07, 2016
Tripp Lite (been making hand held meters since dirt was made) has a mini clamp on meter that I have been wanting. Amprobe AMP-25 I am sure it is a little more expensive but I'd trust this maker before most others except Fluke.
tvman44
Explorer
Jul 07, 2016
This is a nice one Digital Clamp Meter Uni-Trend UT203, I have found it on Amazon & E_Bay both for $30.00 & free shipping. Thinking seriously about ordering one since my old unit is going bonkers. :)
CA_Traveler
Explorer III
Jul 07, 2016
Nice meter but apparently limited to 10A AC/DC and not a clampon.
lc0338
Explorer
Jul 07, 2016
CA Traveler wrote:

I'd love to have a $300 Fluke clampon but can't justify it for my usage.

I bought this one back in February It was $124.95 back in Feb. Good reviews