Application Note

2 Fluke Corporation Revenue meter socket checks using the new Fluke 113 Utility Multimeter
• Use appropriate PPE (Personal protective equip-
ment) for ALL checks. While your employer
or utility may have different guidelines, this
equipment generally consists of, but may not be
limited to, the following items:
• Hard hat
• Safety glasses
• Rubber gloves with approved protectors
(600 V)
• Flame retardant (FR) clothing
• 100 % natural fiber clothing
• Safety toe shoes
Before beginning the socket checks, switch the
Fluke 113 to the VCHEK position. The meter display
looks like this.
The Fluke 113 is now ready to make either a
continuity test, diode check, or voltage measure-
ment. All three tests are automatic. The meter will
determine the correct measurement.
Below is a diagram of a typical self-contained
120 V/240 V 3 wire meter socket.
First and foremost: Work safe
To begin the tests, first insure that your test leads
and meter are in good working order.
Check the leads and probes for any physical or
visual damage. Do not use and replace if damage is
apparent or visible.
Short the test probes together. This checks and
tests for continuity of the leads. An audible tone
will also be heard if the leads are OK.
Measure a known live voltage source. In this
case, test #1 below accomplishes this.
Then, for this example and this type of installa-
tion, there are six tests to be performed.
Always make line side measurements first. This
insures utility power is present and connected and
that your test meter is working correctly before
doing the load side checks. Also make sure the load
side breaker is OFF.
Make the tests in the following order, and look for
results similar to those shown below:
1. Line 1 to Neutral.
4. Load 1 to Neutral.
2. Line 2 to Neutral.
5. Load 2 to Neutral.
3. Line 1 to Line 2.
6. Load 1 to Load 2.
Line 1 Line 2
Load 1 Load 2
Neutral
Line side –
from transformer
Load side –
to customer
Do not set or re-connect the meter if the load side
readings are not as indicated above.
The “OL” indication on the meter display indicates
no continuity or an open circuit condition when
checking the load side of the meter socket. This is
the expected result. Do not set the meter or operate
a bypass handle if there is a reading other than
“OL” indicated during steps 4 through 6. A reading
means:
1. There may be a short circuit or fault on the load
side of the meter socket or service equipment.
2. There could be a back feed voltage present from
another source connected to the load side.
3. There could be a line to neutral wiring error on
the load side of the system.
If a foreign voltage or unexpected reading is
found during the load side tests, many utilities
require their personnel to “blank and seal” or
“boot” the socket at this point. The meter cannot be
set or re-connected until the load side problem is
corrected by the customer.