The best non-contact voltage tester is reliable, safe, and easy to use. Using a non-contact voltage tester is the quickest and simplest way to check if voltage is present before putting yourself at risk.
The things to look for in the ideal non-contact voltage tester depend on your specific use case. Pay attention to the range of voltage detected, whether it will detect dual voltage, or both standard and low voltage, and the features. If you work in a noisy environment, the beep on detection may not be as important as an obvious light-up. If you often work in dark spaces, make sure you look for a voltage tester with an included light so you can see your work environment. Plus, keep value in mind when looking at non-contact voltage tester prices and remember that best price doesn’t necessarily equal best value.
Are non-contact voltage testers safe?
Safety should be a concern when selecting a non-contact voltage tester. Factors that make up a safe, reliable voltage detector include the sensitivity and safety rating. They’re not all equally sensitive, so some can sense small levels of voltage that others won’t be able to detect. Double check the specs on the tester you’re using now, don’t assume it’s the same as ones you’ve used in the past.
Some non-contact voltage testers are safety rated. Ensure that the voltage detector you are using is appropriately rated for the measurement environment you're working in and is within the voltage range you're testing. For industrial environments, that generally means CAT III or CAT IV.
Some non-contact voltage testers can show a false positive or negative if:
- They are not built from quality components
- The insulated test point touches grounded metal
- The cable being tested is partially buried
- The user is isolated from ground
- The tester is used inside a metal enclosure
- The cable is shielded
- The battery is dead
Can a voltage tester shock you?
If you use a voltage tester properly, it will help to shield you from possible shock. Make sure you only hold the insulated handle when conducting a test for voltage and be aware of where your other hand is. Because you are the path to ground, you don’t want to accidentally touch something that would cause any current to go through your body should the insulation fail.
Always wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for the environment you’re working in.
Why is voltage detection important?
“Is voltage present or not?” When working with electricity, this is often the first question that needs to be answered.
For safety purposes, this question is a critical part of electrical testing. The Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration (OSHA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) both direct workers to de-energize all live parts to which an employee may be exposed, unless live conditions are required for troubleshooting.
Fluke non-contact voltage testers
At Fluke, we believe we offer the best non-contact voltage testers. Fluke’s VoltAlert™ AC non-contact voltage detectors, also known as a tester pen or electrical testers, quickly and safely identify the presence of voltage. These quality tools are small and rugged—perfect for storing in your shirt pocket where they can be easily accessed for immediate use. There are four detectors in the Fluke VoltAlert™ line, each designed to meet the personal preferences of the user. From electricians, maintenance, service, and technicians to homeowners, there is a Fluke VoltAlert™ voltage detector for you.
Which Fluke voltage tester is best for me?
What is the best Fluke non-contact voltage tester? Do you prefer your non-contact voltage detector to be on and ready all the time? Or do you prefer one you can turn on and off? What’s your preference for voltage presence notification? A flashing light? A beep? Both? The below product descriptions will help you zero in on the best voltage detector for you:
Fluke 1AC II VoltAlert™ Non-Contact Voltage Detector
Use the Fluke 1AC II non-contact voltage tester if you need a quality tool for general voltage detection and prefer a tool with on/off capabilities.
- Voltage range: 90 V to 1000 V AC
- Voltbeat™ technology and continuous self-test — so you always know it’s working
- Voltage indication: tip glows and beeper sounds (beeper can be disabled)
- Safety: CAT IV 1000 V
- On-off switch for maximum battery life
Fluke 2AC VoltAlert™ Non-Contact Voltage Detector
Use the Fluke 2AC voltage tester if you work in environments where voltage indication by sight is more important than sound and prefer a tool that is always on and ready for use. The 2AC does include an audio beep voltage indicator for when you’re working in quieter areas like schools or office buildings.
- Voltage range: 90 V to 1000 V AC
- Voltage indication: tip glows
- Safety: CAT IV 1000 V
- Always on, using special low power circuitry to sustain battery life and ensure your 2AC is always ready
- 'Battery Check' function ensures battery is in good condition
Fluke 1LAC II A VoltAlert™ Non-Contact Voltage Detector
Use the Fluke 1LAC II A non-contact voltage tester if low voltage detection is needed, such as in control signal identification.
- Voltage range: 20 V to 90 V AC
- Voltage indication: tip glows and beeper sounds
- Voltbeat™ technology and continuous self-test — so you always know it's working
- Safety: CAT IV 1000 V
Fluke LVD2 VoltAlert™ Non-Contact Voltage Detector
Use the Fluke LVD2 voltage tester if you are working in dark environments where a bright LED flashlight is needed.
- Voltage range: 90 V to 600 V AC, features dual sensitivity for two levels of detection
- Voltage indication: blue light (proximity), red light (source located)
- Ultra-bright white LED light with 100,000-hour bulb life
- Safety: CAT IV 600 V
Fluke LVD1A Non-Contact Voltage Tester with LED Flashlight
Use the Fluke LVD1A voltage tester if you are working in a tight, dark environment. It’s designed to be clipped onto your hat or in your work environment with the bright LED flashlight and convenient, compact design, this tester is great to carry in your pocket all the time.
- Voltage range: 40 V AC to 300 V AC, dual sensitivity
- Voltage indication: glows blue 50 Hz - 60 Hz or 2.5 - 38 cm (1 - 5 in) away from source
- Ultra-bright white LED light with 100,000-hour bulb life
- Safety: CAT III 300 V