What is the primary use of an ammeter?

An ammeter is primarily designed to measure electric current, which is the flow of electric charge in a circuit. This device is connected in series with the circuit element whose current is to be measured, allowing it to accurately gauge the amount of electricity passing through it at any given time.

Understanding the role of an ammeter is essential in various applications, especially in HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) systems, where monitoring current is crucial for system efficiency, performance analysis, and troubleshooting. By measuring current, technicians can assess whether motors, heaters, and other devices are operating within their specified ranges, thus ensuring safe and effective operation.

In contrast, other tools are needed for measuring voltage, resistance, or frequency, which highlights the specific function of the ammeter in electrical diagnostics.