Having a multi-meter with an amp clamp when troubleshooting an HVAC system is ideal when needing quick amp load readings.
For example, testing a condensing fan or blower motor for over-amping can be done quickly by simply clamping one of the pole wires.
There are many good HVAC amp clamp multi-meters on the market with techs divided on the best brands.
Personally, I use a Fieldpiece HS36 that has an attachable Amp clamp and has worked great for many years.
With the many brands available below is our picks for best HVAC amp clamp multi-meters.
As always be sure to read the reviews on Amazon, forums, or elsewhere to be sure a unit is a good fit for you.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Our Picks for Best HVAC Multi-Meters with Amp Clamp
- Etekcity MSR-C600
- Fluke 325
- Fieldpiece HS36
- Klein Tools CL900
- UEi Test Instruments DL369
If you need a low-cost amp clamp the Etekcity MSR-C600 is a cheap budget solution.
It measures all voltages AC and DC as well as an amp clamp with a built-in display.
It is not a top-of-the-line multi-meter but is good as a backup meter for an HVAC tech or for a DIY homeowner.
The package comes with a small carry bag to help keep in protected when stored away.
Fluke is a well know manufacture with many good multi-meters.
The Fluke 323 is a good unit that has a clamp to quickly and easily measure amps.
It is also a True-RMS which means it is very accurate with readings.
The Fluke 325 is a good unit that gets the job done.
The Fieldpiece HS36 is an older Amp clamp meter that has been around a while.
It has an attachable accessory head that allows for an Amp clamp to be easily attached.
I have used one for many years and it may be the familiarity but it is my go-to unit.
There are many more meters available with the Fieldpiece HS36 a dependable unit that has always worked for me.
The Klein Tools is a popular brand name with many amp clamp meters including the CL900.
It has many nice features such as an analog bar graph and a back light display.
It is a TRMS meter which is good for accuracy.
The UEi DL369 is a dual display meter with an attachable amp clamp.
The clamp can be removed for easy storage and other attachments can be used such as a K-Type temperature probe.
It has been available for some time and a good unit for the price.
Best HVAC Multi-Meters with Amp Clamp Comparison Table
Name | Amp Clamp | True RMS | Build |
---|---|---|---|
Etekcity MSR-C600 | Yes | Yes | Budget |
Fluke 323 | Yes | Yes | High-End |
Fieldpiece HS36 | Yes | Yes | High-End |
Klein CL900 | Yes | Yes | Mid-Range |
UEi DL389 | Yes | Yes | Mid-Range |
Summary
There are many multi-meters with amp clamps available in all price ranges.
Many techs will have a personal favorite with no single unit being the best.
Fluke units are usually considered the top brand name but many other units work just as well.
HVAC service technicians are often divided when it comes to multi-meters.
Reading through the reviews on sites such as Amazon or forums is always a good idea to see if it is the right fit for you.
Finding a good HVAC meter that helps you get the job done quickly and reliably is always the goal.
Low amperage and small wire gauge is hard to read on large clamps. For the best readings you’d need multiple size and rated meters, not very practical 🙂