Switching On 2026: Fresh Starts, Sharp Meters ⚡

Price vs Value in Test & Measurement (Why it matters)

James Catlin

“Price is what you pay; value is what you get” is the core investment principle of one of the world's best investors, Warren Buffet. This principle is sometimes known as the value vs cost formula. It can be used in many areas of life outside of the stock market and can save us time and money if applied wisely.

Often times cheap and easy solutions seem attractive on the surface but can lead to headaches and replacements that cost more money down the road. On the other hand, an upfront value investment can be intimidating but is more likely to pay itself off in the long run.

In the world of test and measurement and electrical safety, the price vs value equation is especially important. Well-engineered test equipment – with proper servicing and calibration – can last for decades. The opposite can also be true: equipment with cheap parts, or equipment that is not maintained well, can have a much shorter life span and need repairing and replacing.

We have recently received many enquiries from customers looking to replace their Hioki meters that are over 20, 30 or nearly 40 years old. These are pieces of equipment that have lasted the test of time.

So what does “value” actually look like with test instruments?

It’s not just about whether the meter turns on. The real cost shows up in the hidden stuff: time lost fault-finding problems that aren’t real, re-testing because you don’t trust the result, downtime when something fails mid-job, and compliance risk when calibration is overdue or traceability is missing. A cheaper instrument that’s inconsistent can end up costing more than a good one very quickly.

If you’re using older gear, here are the questions we suggest asking:

1) Is it still calibrating well?

If it’s repeatedly failing calibration, drifting out of tolerance, or needing adjustment every cycle, that’s usually a sign it’s nearing end-of-life.

2) Is it still safe for the environments you’re using it in?

Fault levels, switchboards, PV, EV circuits, VFDs and modern installations can be less forgiving than they used to be. Safety ratings and input protection matter.

3) Is it still supported?

Sometimes the decision isn’t performance – it’s parts availability and whether it’s economical to repair.

4) Does it still match the work you do today?

Even if it’s “fine,” the right upgrade can save time every day: faster continuity, more stable TRMS readings, better logging, or improved insulation/RCD testing depending on your work.

The goal isn’t to replace equipment just because it’s old. If a meter is reliable and calibrating well, keep it in service and keep it maintained. But if you’re seeing drift, intermittent issues, or repeated calibration failures, it’s worth planning a replacement before it becomes a site problem.

If you want a hand, reply to this email with your model numbers (and what you use them for). We’ll come back with one of three clear recommendations:

Keep and calibrate
Service/repair (if it’s worthwhile)
Replace with a current equivalent that suits your work

Need Some Questions Answered? Ask an Expert

Measured Laughs

Why did the cheap multimeter break up with the electrician?
Because it couldn’t commit to a stable reading.

Training Spotlight: Start the Year with Practical Skills

We’re kicking off 2026 with exciting training opportunities at Electrotest! Whether you’re looking to upskill, stay compliant, or expand the services you can offer, our courses are designed to give you practical skills you can apply straight back in the field (or the classroom).

🌟 Upcoming Courses

UPS Installation & Commissioning Course – February 12, 2026
Designed for electricians, this course teaches correct installation, testing, and commissioning of UPS systems. Gain the confidence to support customers, offer informed recommendations, and even add UPS installation as a billable service.
Currently undergoing CPD accreditation.

RF Basic Training – February 25–26, 2026 (Pukekohe at Counties Energy)
Level up your RF knowledge with our hands-on, CPD-accredited course. Spots are still available!

Introduction to High Voltage Course - Launching 2026
A foundation course covering HV systems, core safety practices, and essential concepts for anyone working around high-voltage equipment. Stay tuned for launch details later this year.

A Sneak Peek at Exciting Future Courses at Electrotest
We’ve got a full year of practical, hands-on training ahead! Upcoming courses include a series of High Voltage training sessions, a Solar course, a 3-Phase UPS course, and plenty more designed to help you expand your expertise, stay compliant, and add new services. Stay tuned, these courses could be exactly what you need to take your skills to the next level!

Have a training enquiry?
We’d love to hear from you, get in touch to secure your spot or learn more about our courses.

Email Us Today

Tip of the Month: Is Your Equipment Pulling Its Weight? 🛠️

In industrial, electrical, and manufacturing environments, the right test equipment does more than take measurements, it supports efficiency, quality, and safety. Choosing the right tools is not just about upfront cost; it’s about ensuring reliable results and long-term operational benefits.

Key Benefits of Quality Test Equipment

1. Safer Work Environments

Protect personnel with instruments rated for the conditions you work in.
Reduce the risk of accidents caused by faulty readings or outdated equipment.
Minimize liability by using tools that deliver dependable results every time.

2. Reliable and Accurate Results

Confidence in your data improves decision-making and reduces errors.
Accurate instruments prevent wasted time on troubleshooting false issues.
Traceable calibration ensures compliance with industry standards and regulations.

3. Efficiency in Daily Operations

Modern tools often offer faster measurement, better diagnostics, and simplified data management.
Automation and integrated logging save time on repetitive tasks.
Well-designed equipment reduces downtime caused by instrument failure or misreads.

4. Long-Term Cost Benefits

Durable, well-maintained tools last longer and reduce frequent replacement costs.
Early detection of issues helps avoid rework and production delays.
Investing upfront in quality often pays off more than repeatedly replacing low-cost alternatives.

Choosing the Right Equipment
Consider:

Accuracy: Does it meet your measurement needs?
Reliability: Can it perform consistently in your environment?
Durability: Is it built to last?
Maintenance: Is calibration simple and traceable?

Conclusion
High-quality test equipment is an essential part of modern operations. By selecting tools that are accurate, reliable, and fit-for-purpose, companies can improve safety, reduce downtime, and achieve better long-term value, before the cost of shortcuts catches up.