What is a multitester:
A multitester is a tool that can be use to check resistance, continuity, and
voltage in electrical components.
These meters come in digital or analog. Analogs been the
cheaper in price and the digitals been the more accurate.
Why do I need a multitester: Most of the washer
or dryer switches are seal and you won't be able to see inside, so the only way
to know if the contacts are close or open is with a multitester.
How I check resistance or continuity: To check for
resistance or continuity you will need to set the multitester to red ohms. You
will check for resistance in a heating elements, motor windings, and solenoids.
You will check for continuity on switches, thermostats, thermal fuses, house
fuses, etc.
How I check for voltage: To check for for voltage you need to set the
multitester in to AC volts. My multitester has 3 settings 15 volts, 150 volts,
and 1000 volts.
Why I do need different scales: If you are checking an appliance that
runs on 120 volts, then you can use the 150 scale. If you are checking an
electric dryer
that use 240 volts for the heating element, then you need to move the scale to
higher that the voltage you are reading, in this case you need to set it to 1000
volts.
Click on the links below to see how to use a multitester
Digital multitester
Analog multitester
Warning: You should know about electrical safety before checking for
voltage.
Most of the parts you need to check are going to be with the appliance
disconnected from the wall outlet, so there is no danger there.
This website will show you about electrical safety.
Electrical
safety
