9 best electrical tester for shorts

An electrical tester for shorts, often referred to as a circuit tester, is a tool used in electrical work to diagnose and locate electrical faults or shorts in circuits. Shorts occur when two or more conductive paths in a circuit come into contact with each other, causing an unintended and potentially dangerous connection.

Here's what you need to know about electrical testers for shorts:

  1. Purpose: Electrical testers for shorts are designed to help electricians and DIY enthusiasts identify issues in electrical circuits, including short circuits, ground faults, and open circuits.

  2. Types of Circuit Testers:

    • Multifunction Testers: These testers can perform a variety of functions, including testing for shorts, continuity, voltage, and more.
    • Non-Contact Voltage Testers: These testers can detect the presence of voltage without direct contact with wires or terminals.
    • Circuit Testers with Indicator Lights: These testers have indicator lights that illuminate when a circuit is live or when a short circuit is detected.
  3. How They Work: Circuit testers typically work by completing a circuit and indicating whether current is flowing correctly or if there is a short circuit. Some testers use visual or audible indicators to signal the presence of a short.

  4. Safety: When working with electrical circuits, safety is paramount. Always ensure that the circuit you are testing is de-energized and follow proper safety procedures.

  5. Continuity Testing: Many circuit testers can also be used to check for continuity, which means verifying if a circuit is complete and unbroken. This is useful for identifying breaks or open circuits.

  6. Non-Contact Voltage Testing: Some testers can detect the presence of voltage without physically touching the wires. They are handy for identifying live wires in a circuit without direct contact.

  7. Indicator Lights and Sounds: Some circuit testers have LED indicator lights or audible alarms that make it easier to identify shorts or live circuits.

  8. Visual and Audible Feedback: Circuit testers often provide visual and audible feedback to the user. For example, a tester may light up or beep when it detects a short circuit.

  9. Applications: Circuit testers are used in a wide range of electrical tasks, including troubleshooting household wiring, automotive electrical systems, and industrial machinery.

  10. Proper Use: Always use the correct type of circuit tester for the task at hand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe and accurate testing.

In summary, electrical testers for shorts, or circuit testers, are essential tools for diagnosing electrical issues in circuits.They come in various types with different features, including continuity testing and non-contact voltage detection. When using these testers, prioritize safety by ensuring that circuits are de-energized before testing and following proper electrical safety practices.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best electrical tester for shorts on the market
  

Power Probe III Clamshell - Red (PP3CSRED) [Car Automotive Diagnostic Test Tool, Digital Volt Meter, AC/DC Current Resistance, Circuit Tester]

Power Probe

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Power Probe III Circuit tester (Red) with the ability to supply Power or Ground with an indicator tone and bright-white LED headlamps. Features Digital Voltmeter, Min/Max, Audible Circuit Monitoring, 4mm Standard Banana Jack and Auxiliary Ground for component testing. Works with 12 - 24 VDC Systems.

  • Supplies Power & Ground
  • Digital Voltmeter with Min/Max Voltage Capturing
  • 4mm banana jack
  • 20 Foot power lead
  • Tests for Bad Grounds and Continuity
  • 8 Amp Circuit Breaker Protection

User questions & answers

Question: Does this PP3 come in a hard case
Answer: Micheal's craft store
Question: Dloes it have the mode switch
Answer: With any reasonable amount of care that you would normally perform with any jewelry, I would expect this necklace to last just fine. It isn't expensive jewelry, so I wouldn't press much further than that, but you always get what you pay for.
Question: Can it test fuses
Answer: The color is really anti-gold tone with black oil. You can see video for more details.
Question: Can you test motor blowers and plugs
Answer: Dear Customer, Thank you very much for you contacting us. The picture size is according to the lockeing size,the locket size is 1.10inch. If you have any other questions,please feel free to contact us. Merry Christmas! Yours Sincerely, PHOCKSIN Team

Product features

In Clamshell / Red

Prepare to leave your other tools on the bench. Once you connect the Power Probe III to your car battery you will have access to an amazing variety of diagnostic functions.

What does it do?

With the press of a switch you'll have an instant hot lead or ground lead. Use the probe tip and ground lead simultaneously to power up components right in your hand. Instantly check components for continuity as well as identify positive, negative and open circuits without re-polarizing hook-up clips. Locate shorts without wasting fuses.

The 20ft. lead will allow you to test bumper-to-bumper without jumper leads. Audio tone indicates positive with a high pitched tone and negative with a low pitched tone. The audio feature can be disabled when testing relays. The Power Probe III has 2 cool white LEDs that flood the work area with bright light. The housing is sleek and feels great in your hand.

KZYEE KM10 Power Circuit Probe Kit, Automotive Circuit Tester with Auto Electrical System Testing Functions (Digital Voltage Tester/Multimeter/Short Finder)

KZYEE

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • KZYEE KM10 power scan kit is the most revolutionary circuit tester, which performs each type of service, such as, testing for continuity, diagnosing circuit failures, checking the good and bad ground, activating components on and off the vehicle, capturing MIN/MAX voltage, etc.
  • Enables to accurately diagnose the DC Voltage, AC Voltage, Resistance and Diode of the 12v-24v electrical systems by merely pressing the mode button.
  • Having the ability to power up the components, such as cooling fans, starters, relays, windows, washers and so on. Powered by the car battery or cigarette lighter, no additional battery or wires pulling needed.
  • Provides 20ft extension cable for you to reach all around your vehicles, trucks, and trailers (12V-24V). Also, the built-in flashlight is bright enough to light up your work area.
  • Knows how to test for bad ground contacts instantly, tracking and locating shorts fast without losing fuses. What's more, it is circuit breaker protected, which is a safer measure to protect the tool and your components from overload.

User questions & answers

Question: Is there any way I can just buy another battery clips attachment for this power probe? I lost mine
Answer: You can order a clip and crimp it or solder it to your wires
Question: Can you buy additional cord to increase the length to 40-50 feet
Answer: Hello,this super probe has 20ft cable, in addition,this package list included 1 x Extension cable (20ft).If you connect the two cable together, the length of up to 40ft.Thanks
Question: What is warranty on this tool ? Switch broken bought it in April
Answer: Thank you for reaching out to us. We do offer a 30-day money-back and 1-year warranty, please contact us at [email protected], we will find a way to help you. KZYEE TEAM
Question: Can u order an aditional 20ft extension cord for my km10? i really love this thing but i need extra length for working on diesel semis. function
Answer: Yes, you can order an additional cord. However, please be aware of extending the line more than 30ft. diminish the voltage 5-10 percent.

Product features

Does More Than a Multimeter

Just choose the diagnose mode by pressing the mode button, and then contact the probe tip to a circuit, the LCD will read the DC/AV voltage, resistance.

Short Circuit Finder, Bad Ground Checker

KM10 follows and locates open or short circuit without having to move panels, molding or carpet to expose wires. No more fuses wasting.

No Extra Battery Needed

Two power resources. Directly connect the KM10 with the cigarette lighter or battery electrode, then you are ready to go.

Power Probe Short/Open Circuit Finder NO Box (ECT3000B) [Car Test Tool, Electrical Circuit Tester, Short Circuit Indicator, Open Circuit Tracer]

Power Probe

Based on 140 reviews Check latest price

Product description

• The Power Probe ECT3000, a 2-pc circuit tracer, transmits a signal into an isolated circuit (shorted or open) and traces the direction to the problem. • The receiver allows users to see the distance from the wire being traced and the direction to the short. • The auto-signal locking feature eases first-time use and eliminates the need to remove interior trims and carpets. • The integrated flashlight will illuminate the workspace and the automatic 10-minute shut off helps users save battery life.

  • LED light on receiver illuminates the work space area
  • Signal distance bar indicates distance height from short to ground or open circuits
  • New ergonomic housing
  • Longer 10-minute Auto shut off time

User questions & answers

Question: Is the manual online
Answer: I scanned a picture then shrank it to fit. I don’t think there is an official print size that will fit.
Question: Is this a true powerprobe brand
Answer: It wasn’t hard to open, however if opened too often the hinge breaks. I was disappointed by this. My granddaughter is very careful with her things.
Question: Is this a new kit or used as it doesnt have a box
Answer: Yes, it's really nice and larger than I expected. I got it 4 my grandson to give 2 his mom 4 VDay
Question: It have a buzzer or some kind o beeping to advertize on short o open circuit
Answer: sure. do you have better suggestion for short personal quote? like I Love you? Q is ok. but dont you think it's too simple?

allsun Pro Automotive Short and Open Finder Circuit Tester Wire Tracker Circuit Finder DC 6-42 V Short Circuit Detector Short Detector tool Power Probe Short Finder

Based on 878 reviews Check latest price
  • 【LOCATING OPEN CIRCUIT】Powered by 2pcs*9V Batteries(NOT INCLUDES package). It detects and alerts you immediately where a circuit is open. You can quickly and easily Locate short circuits, open connections, broken wires, current leaks and even trace wires. Transmitter and receiver LEDs show open or short circuit conditions.
  • 【CHECKING SHORT CIRCUIT】You can also find intermittent circuit problems by flexing wires or connectors and listening for a change in the receiver tone, 7 inch Flexible Probe Help Reaching Wires in Congested Places.
  • 【SUITABLE FOR DC 6~42 Volt CIRCUIT POWER】It will work on all kinds of circuits with voltages between 6 and 42 volt DC. (such as those found in automobiles,trucks,tractors,boats,RVs,etc...With its wide working voltage range.).
  • 【OPERATION VIDEO】Check Out Our VIDEO on the Left Side, Internally Protected Against Power Surges and Overloads. Built-in Buzzer Sound Show Open or Short Circuit Conditions, Comes with a storage bag, easy to carry.
  • 【QUICK AND EASY DIAGNOSTIC】 Judge continuity of the cables or wires, and diagnose the break point. Time saver, making your repairs quicker, makes things easier to find troubles, Tried to find a fault in auto electric circuit.

User questions & answers

Question: i bought this tester twice for dc testing and they keep sending tester for ac
Answer: I wear a size 13 shoe but I have skinny calves. I can wear medium or large without a problem, just get more compression with the medium. Look at their sizing info I think calf size is a factor.
Question: how do you use the short circuit wire tracker
Answer: I think the chain was 16". I bought this for my daughter, who is about 5'11'', so I bought an 18'' chain to go with it.
Question: can this be used to trace car and home power wires? of course using it on non live powered wires
Answer: There are places like Walmart, CVS photo that can shrink your photo to a small size.
Question: Will this detect through the wiring harness covering
Answer: The clips are internal that hold it together besides the hinge on the side of it it'll open up if you stick your finger nails in between the seem

Power Probe PWP-PPECT3000 - ECT3000 Short/Open Electrical Circuit Tester

Based on 231 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The new Power Probe ECT3000 Electrical Circuit Tracer is an intelligent short and open finder that makes locating short and open circuits quicker and more accurate than ever before When the ECT3000 Transmitter is connected to an isolated circuit, it will quickly determine if the circuit has an open or if the circuit is shorted The ECT3000 receiver is designed to detect the signal emitted from the transmitter through the vehicles wiring, notifying the user of distance and direction with adjustable height sensitivity Auto Locking Signal Distance Indication from Source Wire Directional Indication to the Short Auto-Shut off of 10 min. Shorted or Open circuit indication Integrated Flashlight in Receive WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which is [are] known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this the ect3000-b model
Answer: I do not know the exact level. I have these and I own Zoot Recovery socks. The Zoots are a very high level of compression. These are what I would call mild compression - much less than the Zoots but they do have some compression. I found they loosen up after a couple of washes.
Question: Does this work with the power probe iv? manual just lists the ect
Answer: You lucky girl. I still have a pair in the package. In fine print for a US woman : xs 3-5; s 5.5-8; m 8.5-11; L 11+ The sox are athletic type with a hospital type raised traction pattern on the bottom. They are for compression and shoe size may not yield the proper size. I have a 10.5 wide shoe and a 20" calf. I squeeze into a large which are comfortable once on and do a great job of eliminating swelling of ankles due to blood pooling. The green sox are tighter than the white ones. Great compression sox, good luck finding the right size.
Question: Can i use this to find a bad wire anywhere in a car
Answer: socks for thrombosis
Question: Does anyone have experience with this model and the previous model ect2000, which one do you like better? I would use this on semi trucks and trailers
Answer: I roll them down to the heel (like a woman does with pantyhose or nylons) then while elevating the leg higher than the heart (while sitting) to maximize the benefits of the compression of the blood flow back to the heart when wearing, I feed the toes into the "toe end" and pull and roll the socks up to the knee (just like pantyhose would be pulled on).

ALLOSUN Automotive Cable Wire Tracker Car Tracer Finder Test Short & Open DC 6~42 Volts, Black (EM415PRO)

ALLOSUN

Based on 233 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This instrument is designed to identify and trace wires or cables without damaging the insulation. You can also use it in checking for short circuit and exacting open circuit and so on. There are a sender and a receiver included in the instrument

  • Widely applied in Checking Short Circuit, Locating Open Circuit, Wire Tracing, Wire Identification etc. Quickly and easily target broken wires, current leaks and so on
  • Diagnose and judge the break point from Slight Change of the continuous audio signal from receiver. Transmitter and receiver LEDs show open or short circuit conditions
  • Operates on DC voltages from 6 to 42 Volts under any circumstances
  • 7" flexible Probe allows reaching wires in congested places; Adjustable sensitivity for all tracing needed. Internally protected against power surges and overloads
  • Delicate bag included, easy for carring and storage. Powered by 2 pieces 9V 6F22 Batteries (NOT Provided by Seller)
  • Fit type: Universal Fit

User questions & answers

Question: Anyone use this for aircraft
Answer: I don't know how much compression they have but I do know that the socks give my legs energy. Before wearing them I couldn't walk across a parking lot without stopping because of pain and now I am running and lifting weights. I wear them nearly everyday and they have strengthened my legs beyond compare. You won't regret buying them.
Question: just purchased this item, am i going to regret buying this product? i am an automotive programmer/ diagnostics technician and will use
Answer: I am guessing 30. They are like my Jobst and they are 30's
Question: Can it find the cables under ground
Answer: I am not sure, but can say they provide more compression & support than Miracle Socks and a little less than my prescription socks (30-40 mm/hg). These socks hold up well and do not bunch at the ankles. I wear them when I exercise and to work on casual days. I recommend these socks to minimze swelling.
Question: Is this device safe to use with ecm circuits
Answer: They are knee length.

Product features

ALLOSUN Automotive Cable Wire Tracker Car Tracer Finder Test Short & Open DC 6~42 Volts

This instrument is designed to identify and trace wires or cables without damaging the insulation.

You can also use it in checking for short circuit and loacting open circuit and so on.

There are a Sender and a Receiver included in the instrument.

DC Voltage: Operates from 6 to 42 volts

all-sun Automotive Cable Wire Tracker Car Tracer Finder Test Short & Open DC 6~42 Volts

This instrument is designed to identify and trace wires or cables without damaging the insulation.

You can also use it in checking for short circuit and loacting open circuit and so on.

There are a Sender and a Receiver included in the instrument.

all-sun Automotive Cable Wire Tracker Car Tracer Finder Test Short & Open DC 6~42 Volts

This instrument is designed to identify and trace wires or cables without damaging the insulation.

You can also use it in checking for short circuit and loacting open circuit and so on.

There are a Sender and a Receiver included in the instrument.

all-sun Automotive Cable Wire Tracker Car Tracer Finder Test Short & Open DC 6~42 Volts

This instrument is designed to identify and trace wires or cables without damaging the insulation.

You can also use it in checking for short circuit and loacting open circuit and so on.

There are a Sender and a Receiver included in the instrument.

How to use the probe?

The probe of the Receiver is built of coiled steel and may be bent as needed, in order to reach wires in ongested or difficult areas.

Depending on the circuit characteristic and sensitivity settings, the probe will pick up the signal from the wire in a range of positions.

However, for the best possible range the Receiver’s probe tip (black cap) should be positioned perpendicular (at 90o) to the wire being traced and either above or below it.

Specifications

Receiver:

On/Off button

Test button

Probe length: 7" flexible probe

Sender:

Tone/Off/Cont (Continuity) switch

Tone/Cont (Continuity) LEDs

Red and black test leads cable (61cm length, approximate)

Receiver Dimensions: 38.5 x 4 x 2.3cm (H x W x D, approximate)

Sender Dimensions: 6.5 x 5.6 x 2.1cm (H x W x D, approximate)

Everything Electrical How To Use All The Functions On Your Multimeter

Based on 535 reviews Check latest price

Power Probe Short&Open Circuit Electrical Tester Polarity Identify Circuit Tester Continuity Tester with LED Test Light,Overload Protection for Switches, Relays,Diodes, Fuses of 6V-24V DC Vehicles

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price
  • 【Polarity Identification&Continuity Testing&Component Inspection Continuity Tester】This power probe can help you quickly identify positive and negative polarity of electric cables and plugs. Red light indicates positive polarity and green light indicates negative polarity. It can also test for continuity with the assistance of its auxiliary ground lead. Check switches, relays and the on-off of diodes, fuses, spark plugs and circuits. Widely works on all 6-24V DC vehicle electrical systems.
  • 【Quick Short Circuit Tracking &Poor Ground Contact Testing&Jumper Lead Testing Circuit Tracer】When the fuse burns, it may be caused by a short circuit or a sudden increase in the load of a component. Circuit tester can assist you tracing problem wires and locating breaking points. For some components of which negative terminal is required to be well grounded for large current flowing, this circuit tester with short-circuit protection can test for bad ground contacts instantly. 
  • 【Highly Sensitive Pen&LED Light Prompt&4M Long Testing Wire&Strong Clip Power Probe】Circuit tester adopts stainless steel power probe pen, provides you quick and accurate detection. LED signal light can help you clear problems at a glance. It also has 4 meters wires for easy access and Clip with strong bite force which not easy to fall off, providing you better experience.
  • 【Overload Protection&Double Insulation Protection Electric Testers】The test pen is equipped with overload power-off protection. If the current or load is too large during the power distribution process, the test pen will automatically disconnect to protect the battery and give a buzzer warning. The insulation material used in this electrical tester has passed the CCC national safety compulsory certification, which is safe and reliable.
  • 【Easy Operation】After a simple hook-up of the circuit tracer to the vehicle's battery, automotive technician can conduct a positive or negative battery current to the tip by rocking the power switch forward or backward. Note: This power probe do not use on AC voltage.

Automotive Car Repair Diagnostic Tool Cable Circuit Wire Breaker Finder Tracker Short Open Finder Tester Checker Device

Based on 280 reviews Check latest price
  • 7" flexible probe allows reaching wires in congested places
  • DC Voltage: Operates from 6 to 42 volts
  • Sender:Tone/Off/Cont (Continuity) switch / Tone/Cont (Continuity) LEDs / Red and black test leads cable (61cm length, approximate)
  • Receiver: On/Off button / Test button / Probe length: 7" flexible probe

User questions & answers

Question: Is it like this? https://www.amazon.com/fluke-networks-26000900-pro3000-generator/dp/b000ftadx0/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=utf8&qid=1483901207&sr=1-1&keywords
Answer: This safety hammer can break any windows , except bulletproof glass .
Question: Will this device detect a short and tell you where the short is
Answer: According to MyCloudFitness, the free app MyFitQuest4 works with this as well.
Question: how long is this item when the the gfci tester is plugged in to the tracer? (wondering if it will fit in my tool bag) thanks
Answer: The hight of the seat is adjustable fairly easily.

Product features

Circuit Breaker Finder Tool Kit with Accessories, 2-Piece Set, Includes Cat. No. ET310 and Cat. No. 69411

This 2-piece Klein Tools Digital Circuit Breaker Finder with GFCI Outlet Tester and Circuit Breaker Finder Accessory tool kit does more than just indicate standard circuits. Adapters in this kit indicate the correct breaker of bare wires or other exposed conductors. The Transmitter is connected to the electrical outlet or fixture in the circuit while the receiver is used to scan the breakers in the circuit panel.

Automotive wire tracer and short finder tool

Designed to identify and trace wires or cables without damaging the insulation. You can also use it in Checking Short Circuit, Locating Open Circuit,Wire Tracing, Wire Identification and so on.

There are a Sender and a Receiver included in the instrument.

Finding (Short-Circuit) on Your Car

Identify and trace wires or cables without damaging the insulation

Common Signs That Your Car's Electrical System Is Failing

The engine requires electrical power to start

What causes electrical problems in cars?

Blown fuse will cause problems.

Causes electrical problems in cars?

Your vehicle might have a loose electrical connection

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