So, you’re wondering how to PAT Test (portable appliance testing) a kettle?
We’ve written down the basic steps required to a successfully PAT test a small portable appliance like a kettle. Before performing any type of inspection and testing, it’s important to make sure that the kettle is safe and is being used in the correct environment.
If the kettle is of class 1 construction with an exposed conductive part, just follow the following tests and test sequences:
How to PAT Test a Kettle – Step 1: Safety inspection
Remove any sharp cutting components before any visual inspection and testing commences.
How to PAT Test a Kettle – Step 2: Visual inspection
When doing the visual inspection, check for the following things:
- Does the kettle have the correct fuse rating and flexible cable?
- Check the cable entry into the device and plug
- Check the device case integrity and look out for any discolouration
- Are there any missing components?
- Has there been any non-approved modifications made to the kettle?
- Do the on/off switches operate correctly?
How to PAT Test a Kettle – Step 3: Earth bond test
After you’ve done the visual inspection, plug the kettle into the PAT Tester and make sure the kettle is turned on. Attach the earth bond test probe to an exposed conductive reference point on the kettle’s casing. The earth bond test checks the connection of the earth wire from the pin of the plug to the bodywork of the appliance.
The PAT Tester will now give a resistance reading. The resistance reading will indicate how good the connection is. For appliances the pass value is normally (0.1 + R) Ohms where R is the resistance. If the reading is less than 0.1 Ohms, then the test result is a PASS.
How to PAT Test a Kettle – Step 4: Insulation at 500V DC
Make sure the EUT ( equipment under test) is switched on. This test is used to verify that adequate insulation exists between the mains supply pins and earth. During the insulation test a 500VDC voltage is applied between the earth pin and both the live and neutral pins of the appliance mains supply plug.
If the reading is less than 0.1 mOhms, then the test result is a PASS.
How to PAT Test a Kettle – Step 5: Load & Earth Leakage
Earth Leakage Testing for Class I appliances measures the amount of current which leaks through the insulation. The earth leakage test is normally combined with a load test to ensure the kettle is working properly. Earth leakage is an important electrical safety parameter for appliances which contain heating elements , motors or come into contact with water or other fluids.
If the reading is less than less than 0.75mA, then the test result is a PASS.
That’s it! You’ve now successfully perform a PAT Test on a kettle. It’s worth mentioning here, that if the kettle is fitted with a detachable IEC lead , the lead must be tested independently of the kettle and labelled seperately.
Of course, you might want to learn from an expert on a one-to-one level. Our PAT training courses can be carried out the comfort of your office, or at our premises. Courses can be booked as group booking or individual sessions.
Take a look at our range of PAT Testers from leading manufacturers Megger, Seaward and Fluke.