Electric Essentials: The Tools Every Electrician Needs

Part of getting any job done well is having the proper equipment. And when there’s an electrical problem in your house, it’s especially important to be prepared. No matter if you are an amateur do-it-yourselfer or an apprentice electrician, there are certain tools that you will need in order to do the job at hand. Here’s our list of suggestions for the tools every electrician needs.

Pliers

There is really no getting around this tool. As a matter of fact, a variety of pliers are essential when working on the gauged wires used on commercial and residential jobs alike.

Side Cutting Pliers: Side cutters are critical to cutting electrical wires. Also referred to as lineman’s pliers, they can do more than just cut. They are also designed to bend, grab, pull, and twist wire. If you only have one set of pliers for electrical tasks, it should be this style, no matter if you are a homeowner or a professional.

Long Nose Pliers: With a thinner and more pointy shape, these make quick work of bending wire around a screw. They also help to reach into tight spaces that side cutters will struggle with. While this may be more important to the journeyman electrician, a DIY project can become much easier with their use.

Wire Cutters

Designed with a sharp edge or blade, wire cutters allow you to strip the insulated coating around wires. They can accomplish this without damaging the wire itself, which can be critical when dealing with electricity. These are often sold with a notched or bladed edge. Both pros and amateurs count these among the essential tools every electrician needs.

Driver Set or Screwdrivers

Removing face plate covers and making solid contact with terminals require working with screws. The advantage of the a driver set is that you won’t have to carry multiple screwdrivers around with you, just different interchangeable heads. While that might be more of a concern for the electrician on the job, even a DIY project can be kept on track with a good driver.

Voltage Tester

This handheld device is used to verify if there is current running through the wires, fixture, or switch you are working on. It is important to know if a wire is “live,” so make sure you have a tester and that you know how to use it, no matter what your skill level or knowledge is.

Circuit Finder

Geared more towards the professional, this device is plugged into an outlet and transmits a signal through the wire. This allows you to detect its circuit at the panel. On commercial jobs with lots of breakers or even at a residence with no labeled breakers, this tool can save you time and money.

Multimeter

Another device that an electrician should have with them is a multimeter. This tool allows you to measure various electrical properties over a various ranges. While older analog models were good for troubleshooting, today’s models include a multitude of testing options that can speed up your electrical diagnoses.

Fish Tape or Poles

Unless you are a homeowner rewiring your home or doing an add-on, this item may be something that only a pro electrician would need to have. On commercial and residential sites, the ability to feed wires through ceilings and walls is necessary, and these will get the job done.

Tool Bag/Box/Pouch

Finally, you will need a way to carry tools to the job site and keep them organized! And remember, if your current electrical repairs are more than a DIY enthusiast can handle, call Bryant Electric Service today. Not only do we carry all the important tools every electrician needs, we bring over three decades of expertise to every job. Don’t delay, get in touch now!