Why would a fridge fail a PAT test?

Larger equipment such as fridges can have longer leads, and in some cases a longer earth path as part of their construction, and a PAT tester can initially indicate a fail when carrying out the earth continuity test.

What causes a PAT test failure?

There are several other reasons why appliances may fail PAT testing, such as: use of aged PAT testing equipment. equipment not regularly calibrated. use of wrong equipment for the appliance type.

Can you PAT test a fridge?

In other words, if you have an appliance that has a plug that is intended to be connected to a wall socket, it qualifies as needing to be PAT tested. Some examples of portable appliances are as follows: Fridges.

Why would an appliance fail an insulation test?

The Touch Current Test measures the current that could flow from the equipment through a person who touches it. A failed touch current test indicates that there is a risk of electric shock. Common causes of failure include poor insulation of the equipment, a faulty plug, or poor grounding of the equipment.

Why would a microwave fail a PAT test?

Microwave failures can come in a couple of different forms, with the most common being exposed rust. This is caused by users not keeping the door open after cooking something and the steam and condensation causing the paint to peel away. This reveals the bare metal underneath, thus causing it to rust.

PAT testing failed appliances this week

How do you fix a failed PAT test?

What is an acceptable reading for a pat test?

The insulation test pass mark will be 1MΩ. This means that the Insulation reading must be over 1MΩ to Pass the test. The PAT tester will measure the resistance between the live parts (Live and Neutral) connected together and earth.

What is a Class 1 electrical appliance?

Examples of Class I appliances are refrigerators, microwaves, kettles, irons, and toasters. Appliances under Class I have two levels of protection: the basic insulation and the earth connection. Inside the appliance, there are three wires connected to three different pins. The wires are called Live, Neutral, and Earth.

What does PAT testing actually test?

What is portable appliance testing? Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination but some types of defect can only be found by testing.

What class is a fridge for PAT testing?

Typically fridges, microwaves, toasters are all Class 1.

How often should a fridge be PAT tested?

For landlords, it's good practice to have all your appliances PAT tested before a new tenant moves in. After this, smaller appliances should be tested every two years and larger items like fridges and washing machines should be tested in four-year intervals.

How often should a refrigerator be PAT tested?

Any general equipment that is classed as handheld, transported or used more frequently should be tested every 12 months.

How long does an electrical PAT test last?

While there is no official expiry date on a PAT test certificate, it is recommended that you should re-test Class 1 electrical equipment every 48 months and Class 2 electrical appliances every 24 months. How long is a PAT testing course? A standard PAT testing course usually takes place over the course of one day.

What items do not need PAT testing?

What items do not need to be PAT tested? PAT testing is not required for equipment that doesn't run off the mains, such as things that use batteries.

What happens if PAT testing is not done?

Depending on the severity of the situation, the penalty for not meeting legal obligations on electrical appliance safety can be as high as 2 years' imprisonment, as well as an unlimited financial penalty.

How do I know if my appliance is Class 1 or Class 2?

So essentially Class I equipment has an earth which will be visibly terminated in the plug top & has an earth incorporated in the supply cable. Class II equipment does not rely on an earth connection for safety therefor inside the plug you will only see 2 wires (L+N) & is supplied by a 2 core cable.

Are kettles Class 1 or 2?

A Kettle is a class 1 item, not only that but it is two separate items due to it's detachable base or lead. The kettle relies on an earth connection for safety; the PAT machine checks that connection is functioning correctly. A formal visual inspection should be carried out first.

What is the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 Pat test?

Class 1 appliances need a full PAT test, Class 2 appliances need a PAT insulation test, and Class 3 appliances don't need to be PAT tested at all. This type of electrical equipment has only basic insulation and relies on an earth for protection.

Can I do PAT testing myself?

Yes, your business can carry out its own PAT tests, as long as the person doing the testing is a 'competent' person. If you decide to do your own PAT testing we would strongly recommend taking a PAT testing course as it's important to perform the PAT tests correctly.

Do brand new appliances need PAT testing?

New equipment should be supplied in a safe condition and not require a formal portable appliance inspection or test. However, a simple visual check is recommended to verify the item is not damaged.

What is the pass mark for PAT testing?

The exam follows the City & Guilds 2377 syllabus and is open book; you can use the IET Code of Practice for In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment during the exam. To pass, you must achieve at least 80%.

Can you PAT test without unplugging?

To PAT test the PC it needs to be disconnected from the mains and plugged into a PAT tester.

How can I test my Pat without a PAT tester?

Alternatives to using a PAT test instrument

Most electricians will already have a low resistance ohmmeter and an insulation tester, or more often nowadays, a multifunction tester (MFT). These are normally used for testing the fixed electrical installation, but they can also be used for PAT testing.

Can you PAT test without being an electrician?

You do not need to be an electrician to carry out visual inspections. Low cost user checks and visual inspections are a good method of Maintaining portable electric equipment.