Multifunction Tester Buyers Guide

With over 20 different multifunction tester models available in the UK, choosing the correct one can seem like a daunting task.

If you’re shopping for a new tester, various manufacturer’s comparison charts can be big help deciphering what features a specific model offers over another within their respective ranges, but they can also raise further questions in comparison with other manufacturer’s models, and so you may find yourself going around in circles.

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Where To Start?

A good starting point is to consider what sort of installations the tester will be used for testing as the answer often narrows down the choice to a few models.

For example, if you’re a Part P domestic electrician, you most likely won’t want to spend extra hard-earned cash on features such as 400V line testing, phase rotation industrial type RCD testing.

On the flipside, if you’re installing three phase equipment and testing multi-phase distribution boards in a commercial/industrial environment, you’ll become stuck with a tester that isn’t suitable for three-phase installation work.

What tests will I need to conduct?

Let’s take a closer look at the test features you’ll likely need. Below is a table of the tests required by BS7671 (BS7671:2018 at time of writing), and the test feature you’d need to select upon a multifunction tester to conduct the test:

We can conclude that BS7671 requires a total number of 7 tests to be performed to check an electrical installation. However, depending on your scope of testing, it’s very likely that you may only require 5 of the 7 test options:

• For most installations, a loop test can be used to check earth electrodes rather than using a dedicated earth electrode test option that requires test spikes and long test leads
• You won’t require your new tester to carry out phase sequence/phase rotation tests if you’re a domestic electrician testing single phase circuits only

It’s helpful to categorise the various MFTs available on the market into 3 groups: Domestic/Part P, commercial and industrial.

Domestic/Part P Multifunction Testers

The multifunction testers that fall into this category are suitable for domestic installers and Part P contractors checking and certifying single phase, 230V, electrical installations. Whether you’re adding a socket to an existing circuit and need to issue a MEIWC to verify your work, or you may have been asked to issue multiple EICRs by a landlord who owns an array of properties, these models will offer you all the test options you’ll need.

Commercial Multifunction Testers

The most ‘crowded’ section of the market, with plenty of options available. The testers that fall into this category offer all the test functions that a domestic/Part P tester will offer, but in addition, tests such as 415V 3 phase loop testing, insulation test voltages starting at 50/100V, phase rotation testing, earth electrode testing and more extensive RCD testing making them suitable for applications such as shop-fitting, office maintenance and light industrial installation. It’s important to notice that models that fall into the commercial category start to offer the specific 6mA DC RCD test required to test EVSE equipment, too, which we expect to heavily impact the buyer’s choice of multifunction tester:

Industrial Multifunction Testers

The multifunction testers in this category are suitable for domestic/Part P, commercial and more dedicated testing industrial type applications, including utility earth testing, specialist medical installations, diagnostic testing and even monitoring power consumption/detecting harmonics problems. In addition, most models in this category offer the specific 6mA DC RCD test required for testing the type of RCD required in EVSE charging equipment:

What Else Should I Consider?

In addition to choosing a model that comes at the correct price and specification for the scope of electrical testing work that you’ll be conducting, it also pays to consider testing features that aren’t mandatory; features to make your job easier onsite:

• Remote test probes – many models include a test probe that features a button on the shaft of the probe. When pressed, this button has the same effect as pressing the test button on the instrument itself. Imagine you’re carrying out a loop test at a light fitting from on top of a ladder; having to hold all three test probes with one hand so that you can access the instrument test button can be challenging, hence when using a remote probe, you’ll be able to free up one hand to make doing the test a lot easier
• Visual pass/fail indicators – a few manufacturers offer this option when conducting a loop test. Basically, these models have all the maximum disconnection times and impedances for different fuse types included in the firmware of the tester. Simply select the device that is protecting the circuit under test (eg BSEN 60898, B, 32A) and your test result will show as acceptable or not. If the values in BS7671 ever change, the firmware can be updated to keep the instrument up to date
• Automatic test sequences – programme the MFT with custom test sequences for automatic succession to the next test function once the previous has been conducted. Very useful for carrying out quick, successive EICRs without having to select the test function after each test
• Downloadable – some models include a memory that allows for downloading test results and issuing certificates electronically. This takes the time out of handwriting each certificate and recording test results on site
• Rechargeable – recharge the batteries in-situ; simply plug a mains charger into the MFT to recharge the batteries
• Price – of course budgeting is paramount. However, investing into a new tester that falls short of the ideal specification that you require can stop you earning more in terms of what and how you’ll be able to test. For example, if you set a firm budget at £400, you’ll fall short of the tests required to successfully install, test, and maintain EVSE equipment that an additional £100 would have made possible – a market that is currently booming. Likewise, it wouldn’t make sense to invest into a £1500+ model if all you’ll ever need to test are occasional single-phase circuits. 

Further Information

For any additional support or information concerning multifunction testers, please drop us a line on 0113 248 99 66 (option 1) and our advisors will be happy to help.