The idea is that nutrients conduct electricity, so we can measure how rich the water is based on how well it conducts,
Sometime these meters measure using PPM (parts per millions) but be warned, that system of measurement can be less accurate due to different salts (nutrients) having more or less conductivity.
To correct this simply add more nutrient if its too low, or if too high, take out some of the feed and dilute with water.
Its an obvious answer when u work out wat EC is, but i thought somebody should answer you!