How to use a Volt Stick 230Y
The Volt Stick 230Y is the original non-contact voltage tester for checking for the presence of a live voltage in cables, sockets, switches, fuse boards and more. This video gives a detailed demonstration on how to safely and accurately use your Volt Stick 230Y tester...
What is a Volt Stick 230Y for?
It is a non-contact istant voltage tester for safely checking for the presence of a voltage. The part number's '230' is for 230 volts the standard UK and Europe mains electricity voltage); the 'Y' in the part number stands for yellow - simply so that it standsa out in the tool box!
What do the markings on the 230Y refer to?
- IP64 rating - This means the Volt Stick can be used in the rain but not submerged underwater.
- CE & IEC - This means the Volt Stick is relevant to all electrical safety and environmental standards.
- CAT III 1000VAC - This means the Volt Stick has an over-voltage safety rating and 1000 volts in a cat 3 zone.
- The 230Y also meets all US standards and has the UL approval.
What is the VoltStick 230Y used for?
Just the size of a pen, the Volt Stick 230Y provides a visual red LED indication where a live voltage is detected in conducting materials - which may be either exposed or insulated.
The Volt Stick 230Y is an ideal tool for an electrician to keep with them at all times so they can check for voltages in:
- Cables
- Sockets
- Junction boxes
- Fuse boards
Safety feature of the 230Y:
One of the main safety features of the 230Y - and infact the whole Volt Stick range - is that there is no on/off switch. Therefore all VoltStick devices are always ready to use and there is no way you will forget to switch it on.
Checking your Volt Stick 230Y is functioning correctly before use
Before you use the Volt Stick 230Y you must test to make sure it is working correctly. The best way to check the Volt Stick is against a known live source in the area you are about to work; this could be a switch or a flex to an electrical appliance.
How to test a voltage checker against an electrical socket
The 230Y is designed with a sensitivity that makes it possible to indicate live and neutral. When the Volt Stick 230Y lights up red, this means a voltage is detected. If there is no light this means there is no voltage detected. Remember to make sure you hold the Volt Stick behind the safety guard when using and testing it.
Test your voltage indicator against a known live source...
How to test the 230Y against a light switch
1. Switch the light switch on and move the Volt Stick around the switch until it illuminates.
2. Turn the light switch off and the Volt Stick should also turn off. This means your Volt Stick is working!
How to test the 230Y against the flex of an electrical appliance
As the 230Y is very accurate and designed to detect 230 volts from 4mm, it is important you check the whole way around the flex. You will see the Volt Stick light go on and off as it moves further and closer to the live.
Once you have confirmed your Volt Stick is working, you can repeat the procedure on what you need to test. It is recommended once you have finished testing to double check the Volt Stick once again on that known live source to make sure it is still working correctly.
Why is my Volt Stick not giving me the results I expected?
If the results from your Volt Stick are not what you expected - make sure the batteries are working and replace them if necessary. It is good practice to regularly check and replace the batteries, it is also good to remove the batteries from the Volt Stick when it is not going to be used for some time.
