Smokin-It User Forum!

Smokin-It Smokers => Model 4D - The Big Daddy! => Topic started by: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 10:50:05 AM

Title: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 10:50:05 AM

I have the classic number 4.
I think the heating element may have died.  :(
What tests do I need to safely perform to make sure it's just the element—obviously, checking to see if power is reaching the element is essential.
I don't know much about electrical stuff.
I currently only have a Southwire non-contact voltage tester and a basic 2-probe tester.

Thanks!
:)

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: old sarge on August 31, 2017, 02:20:51 PM

Martin - Unable to forward link from phone. I googled 'testing calrod oven element' and articles and videos popped up. Hope that helps.
 Dave

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: LarryD on August 31, 2017, 02:27:17 PM

If you have a multi-meter that can test ohms then you should be able to disconnect the power, disconnect the leads from the element, and then test the element by touching one probe to each post on the element from which you just removed the leads.  If you get no reading then the element is probably bad.  You can double check that your meter is working by touching the two probes together.

If you google 'test element ohms' you'll get lots of videos and articles about testing a variety of elements such as water heaters, ovens, etc.  They're all the same idea so watch/read a couple of those and it should help you get comfortable with the process and what to expect.

Quote from: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 10:50:05 AM

I think the heating element may have died.  :(
What tests do I need to safely perform to make sure it's just the element—obviously, checking to see if power is reaching the element is essential.

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 02:49:02 PM

Thanks Sarge and Larry,

So I need a multimeter.
I do have Amazon Prime and I don't need anything fancy as it's not something I'd be using regularly.
Any recommendation?
Preferably less than $20.

 :)

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: LarryD on August 31, 2017, 04:08:44 PM

If you have a Harbor Freight nearby then you can go pick one up. 

https://www.harborfreight.com/7-function-digital-multimeter-90899.html

Check your local flyers and there is almost always a 20% off coupon, too.  :)  I've even seen them have coupons to make this meter free in the past.

Quote from: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 02:49:02 PM

Thanks Sarge and Larry,

So I need a multimeter.
I do have Amazon Prime and I don't need anything fancy as it's not something I'd be using regularly.
Any recommendation?
Preferably less than $20.

 :)

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 04:24:04 PM

Thanks Larry,
I wish our closest Harbor Freight was closer, it's about 30 miles away.  :-[

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: old sarge on August 31, 2017, 10:10:07 PM

Since you mentioned Amazon, found this complete with alligator clips which are handy.  Limited to 10 amps.  Four times the price of the Cen Tech at Harbor Freight.

https://www.amazon.com/Neoteck-Multimeter-Multimeters-Resistance-Transistor/dp/B01NAVAT9S/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1504231288&sr=8-3&keywords=multimeters&refinements=p_n_condition-type%3A6461716011

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 10:17:29 PM

Thanks!
 :)

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: old sarge on August 31, 2017, 11:13:39 PM

Martin,
If testing the element proves OK, then start looking at the wiring (http://smokinitforums.com/index.php?topic=6400.30). Also a quick how to for testing with a video:
http://www.appliance411.com/faq/test-element.shtml

Hope this all helps.

Dave

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on September 01, 2017, 08:43:16 AM

Cool!
Thanks, again, Dave!

 8)

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on September 02, 2017, 01:52:30 AM

Thanks again guys!
I called my brother, he has a multimeter and stuff.
I'll have him do the testing.
 8)

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: Walt on September 02, 2017, 09:32:55 AM

Martin, I use your calculator for pinking salt very regularly. Thanks. It's great.

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on September 03, 2017, 08:34:44 AM

You're welcome, Walt,
It was down for a few days but it's back up now—darn hosting company!  >:(
If it doesn't load, try clearing you browser's cookies.

Thanks!
 8)

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: LarryD on September 04, 2017, 10:18:30 AM

Mine is less than a mile away...  can be both a blessing and a curse.  :)

Quote from: DiggingDogFarm on August 31, 2017, 04:24:04 PM

I wish our closest Harbor Freight was closer, it's about 30 miles away.  :-[

Title: Re: Heating element testing!?
Post by: DiggingDogFarm on September 04, 2017, 10:27:58 AM

I'm sure! LOL  ;D