Favorite multi-meter for RV / Solar

Clamp on DC current probes are great, particularly for trying to diagnose issues with solar backs. Just be sure to get one that reads to relatively low (<10A) levels.

If you have nothing, start off with a Hazard Fright cheapy and a Kill-A-Watt. The HF will do you well for nearly all the DC work, and the KAW will diagnose AC issues faster than anything else.

I have a stable of Fluke stuff. I started buying it with the introduction of the 70series and have added as needed over the years. I would never have amassed this collection if it were not deductible. You don't need what I have so do not buy it and don't worry about what you have.

Matt

DFord wrote:
It's time to upgrade your lights to LED to prevent things like that.

I was using the lamp for a load to check the condition of a battery. Unfortunately the battery was in good condition.

I went through some $10 meters that have the DC 10 amp limit, frying them. ( I am a spaz) I then got the same sort of meter only with a fuse in it for the amps. I have replaced the fuse a couple of times, which "paid" for the extra cost of the fused meter over the basic one.

Tom_M wrote:
This was my favorite until an incandescent lamp fell over on it. Didn't notice until something smelled hot. I also have a DC clamp-on that I use a lot.

It's time to upgrade your lights to LED to prevent things like that. I've been burned for the last time with trouble lights and incandescent bulbs. I've made the switch. The LEDs are equivalent to "rough service" bulbs when it comes to dropping them - another plus.

If you can find a Sears store, they have a sale on their DC clamp meter for $44.99.

Craftsman Clamp Meter

This was my favorite until an incandescent lamp fell over on it. Didn't notice until something smelled hot. I also have a DC clamp-on that I use a lot.

I like the new Ames series of meters from HF myself. Not quite Fluke but close.

Sign up for Harbor Freight's mailings and you'll get their catalogs and emails with coupons for free stuff - often they give away meters with another purchase and it doesn't have to be much. I keep two or three around on my MH - I either need it inside and it's in a compartment or I need it outside and it's in a draw inside. I don't bother to take the spare out of the package till I need it or I run across a newbie and give it to them. They work fine - 12 volt isn't rocket science and I'm not sending anyone to the moon. I haven't put a battery in my Simpson 260p in so long it's feeling dejected.

I bought a cheap $20 multimeter from Amazon after my Craftsman died. The Craftsman was bulky but built like a tank and lasted me for several years. The "DApril" brand I got from Amazon works but the display will shut off when it gets too cold and the leads are very cheap.

My solar controller with remote tells me all I need to know.