What instrument is used to check the amount of electrical current a load is drawing?

The amp meter is specifically designed to measure the amount of electrical current flowing through a circuit. It provides a direct reading of current in amperes, allowing users to assess how much current a load is drawing at any given moment. This information is essential for diagnosing electrical systems, ensuring components are operating within their specified current limits, and avoiding issues such as overheating or circuit overloads.

In contrast, the voltmeter measures the voltage or electrical potential difference across a load, the ohmmeter measures resistance within a component or circuit, and the wattmeter measures the power consumed by a load, which is a function of both voltage and current. Therefore, while each of these instruments serves a particular purpose in electrical measurements, the amp meter is the correct tool for assessing the current drawn by a load.