On the basis of numerical simulation of heating of symmetric contacts by flowing current,were drawn conclusions about the accuracy of determining the temperature by the Holm – Kohlraus method for various methods of cooling the contacts, including with intensive air and liquid cooling. The question of the possibility of using this method for pulsed heating of contacts. It is shown how the accuracy of determining the temperature of the contact pads depends on the choice of locations for measuring the surface temperature and the potential difference.