Heating element testing!?

[DiggingDogFarm]

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!

 

[old sarge]

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

 

[LarryD]

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.

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.

 

[DiggingDogFarm]

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.

 

[LarryD]

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.

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.

 

[DiggingDogFarm]

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

 

[old sarge]

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

 

[DiggingDogFarm]

Thanks!

 

[old sarge]

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

 

[DiggingDogFarm]

Cool!
Thanks, again, Dave!

8)

 

[DiggingDogFarm]

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

 

[Walt]

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

 

[DiggingDogFarm]

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)

 

[LarryD]

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

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

 

[DiggingDogFarm]

I'm sure! LOL  ;D