What tool is commonly used to measure current in an HVAC circuit?

A common tool used to measure current in an HVAC circuit is the clamp meter. This device is specifically designed to measure the current flowing through a conductor without the need to disconnect it from the circuit. The clamp meter works by sensing the magnetic field created by the electric current and providing a reading of the amperage on its display. This makes it particularly useful in HVAC applications, where technicians often need to monitor current during system checks or troubleshooting.

While a multimeter can also measure current, it typically requires connecting leads to the circuit, which can be more time-consuming and may interrupt the circuit operation. An oscilloscope, on the other hand, is primarily used for visualizing electrical signals rather than measuring current in HVAC systems. A voltage tester is designed exclusively for checking voltage levels, not current. Thus, the clamp meter stands out as the most practical and efficient tool for measuring current in HVAC applications.