9 Basic Electrical Tools That Every Electrician
Needs
June 9, 2014 . 28K Views . 7 Comments
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Electrical tools are for professionals and homeowners
to install or fix wires and electrical fixtures. Having the right tool for the job allows the electrician to work safely and efficiently. Basic tools are a good investment, as tools especially for electricians are designed to protect against electric shock and make electrical connections that are safe and long-lasting. The basic tool set includes safety tools, diagnostic tools, and functional tools. Safety tools include lighting, ladders, and protective gear. Diagnostic tools identify voltages and measure for studs. Functional tools are hand or power tools like pliers, wire strippers, and screwdrivers.
to install or fix wires and electrical fixtures. Having the right tool for the job allows the electrician to work safely and efficiently. Basic tools are a good investment, as tools especially for electricians are designed to protect against electric shock and make electrical connections that are safe and long-lasting. The basic tool set includes safety tools, diagnostic tools, and functional tools. Safety tools include lighting, ladders, and protective gear. Diagnostic tools identify voltages and measure for studs. Functional tools are hand or power tools like pliers, wire strippers, and screwdrivers.
While the electrician and homeowner can add to their toolbox over time with additional tools, more expensive tools, brand names, or tools with more features, this basic set of tools provides the performance that every electrician needs. To find tools, people visit hardware stores, home stores, or online locations like eBay. This guide helps the electrician identify the tools that match the demands of common electrical tasks.
Electrician’s Safety Tools
Safety is very important when working with electricity, so there are several safety tools available for the electrician. The tools are designed to make the environment safe and also protect the electrician.
Tool 1: Lights
Often, when working with electricity, the electrician must turn off all or most of the power at the circuit breaker. For situations with no light or dim light, the electrician can use a simple flashlight.. These are available in different sizes, from the pocket size to a large flashlight. Electricians may also want to invest in headmounted flashlights to peer into dark spaces while retaining the use of the hands. For more light, floodlights are useful as well as a generator to provide power to the floodlight.
Tool 2: Ladder
Ladders are important to reach both indoor and outdoor wires and fixtures. For electricians, a ladder with a non-conductive material is best, like fiberglass or wood. Ladders made from aluminum or other metal are electrical conductors and should not be used.
Tool 3: Personal Protective Gear
Personal protection gear for the electrician is important, easily procured, and should be part of every electrician’s basic set of tools. Gloves allow the fingers and wrist to be flexible, yet guard against cuts and scrapes. For added protection, use rubber insulating gloves and wear leather gloves on top. Rubber soled shoes rated for electricians have thick rubber soles that are resistant to electric shock. To protect the head, wear a hardhat, and to protect the eyes, wear safety glasses with a side shield.
Electrician’s Diagnostic Tools
The most important part of electrical safety is diagnosing the electrical conditions before beginning work. Additionally, other tools are useful to find wires and complete the electrical project.
Tool 4: Wire Testers
Wire testers are diagnostic devices that tell the electrician whether the power is on or off and they measure the strength of the electricity. Depending on the application, electricians can use several different kinds of wire testers; some are basic devices while others offer digital readouts. The voltage detector is one of the first diagnostic tools to use, as it indicates whether a wire is live or not. The continuity tester checks for malfunctioning circuits, switches, and fuses. Electricians often use it to see if a light socket is working properly. The tester indicates an open or closed circuit status but is not capable of measuring normal and short loads. For maximum versatility, electricians can purchase a multimeter that checks for both voltage and continuity.
Tool 5: Measuring Tools
A stud finder is a useful tool for locating the beams in the walls and ceiling. Having this information helps indicate where wires are more likely to be located. A tape measure is often found in an electrician’s basic set of tools to measure wall height and depth, wire lengths, and other tasks. To complete some tasks, like installing lighting, a level is used to indicate straightness of an object in relation to the floor.
Electrician’s Functional Tools
Electricians use a variety of hand tools that are often available as power tools. Power tools have electric cords, so electricians should consider cordless hand tools. For additional power, an air compressor adds power and torque to power tools. When possible, electricians should buy rubber-gripped tools, as they can help protect people from shock. Since functional tools are used often, consumers should find tools with ergonomic designs.
Tool 6: Cutting Tools
Working with wire and cutting through walls requires cutting tools. To hack through walls, people use large power saws or small hacksaws. For some jobs, a simple box cutter can suffice. Since wires are made of different gauges and often have a protective housing, consumers can find several types of wire cutters. Wire cutters cut completely while wire strippers have a notch in the center to cut away the insulated casing without damaging the wire.
Tool 7: Pliers and Wrenches
For many electrical jobs, tools to manipulate wires, nuts and bolts, and other electrical and mechanical objects are necessary. To loosen nuts and bolts, electricians can use wrenches. Some are adjustable with jaws that open in various positions, while others have interchangeable bits. A vise grip wrench is necessary at times. Pliers have different types of grip heads, shapes, and lengths. A linesman’s plier has a gripping edge and a cutting surface. Side-cutting pliers have a blade on only one side. Needle-nose pliers are long and pointed at the end for more detailed work.
Tool 8: Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are used to drive in screws in electric fixtures, electrical boxes, or the outside plates to the wall or ceiling. People can find both manual screwdrivers and power screwdrivers. A small cordless screwdriver is a valuable addition to the electrician’s toolbox. The most common types of screwdrivers are the Phillips head and the flat head. An adjustable screwdriver is more versatile but it may not be as long or as short as needed for some jobs. People should consider a wire-bending screwdriver as it bends the wire when installing the screw.
Tool 9: Hammer
While cutting tools, pliers, wrenches, and screwdrivers are most often used by electricians, a hammer is useful in some situations. A basic hammer with a flat head and a claw can suffice, but other varieties are available. Consumers can purchase very small hammers, large hammers, and power hammers.
Electrical Tool Accessories
In addition to the basic tools, electricians can use other items and accessories. A tool belt is a pouch that is worn around the waist or strapped over the shoulder. A toolbox helps carry and organize a number of tools along with supplies like screws. Extension cords enable the electrician’s tools to reach further and heavy-duty cords are more appropriate for power tools. Some tools like diagnostic tools are better stored in pouches or cases. Electrical tape, especially colored tape, is always handy. For some jobs, electricians may need a soldering iron or staple gun. Extra battery packs for power tools are available. To patch holes, spackle and a putty knife are often needed.
Buying Electrical Tools on eBay
To find safety, diagnostic, or functional electrical tools,, spend some time browsing on eBay, as you can find a wide variety to suit your needs. You can use the categories, refinement filters, or search box to browse. To find a seller, look for one with a Top-Rated Plus badge or one with consistent positive feedback .. You can also find a local seller. You can buy new, used, or refurbished tools and in some cases, you can find customized tools or tools with additional features like ergonomic grips.
Choosing from Among eBay Sellers
When searching, be aware that many sellers offer package deals. They offer the core product plus extras to add value and make your purchase more convenient. For instance, you can find tools sold in sets like screwdriver sets.. Many sellers also offer free shipping and reasonable return and exchange policies. You can ask the seller for expedited shipping or shipping insurance. Most sellers make their policies clear to prospective buyers but if you have any questions, you can always ask.
Conclusion
Professional electricians and homeowners need a basic set of tools to effectively complete their jobs. Safety is paramount in working with electricity, so the first concern about a tool should always be about its safety features. Examples of safety tools are wood ladders and rubber handled screwdrivers. Diagnosing electrical circuits and measuring walls to look for electrical lines is simple with diagnostic tools like continuity testers and stud finders. For creating holes in the wall, cutting wires, and screwing in plates, people can find hand tools or power tools.
The right tool for a particular job is important, so manufacturers make basic tools with varied designs and features. To find these basic tools, people can visit online locations like eBay or brick and mortar stores. Finding electrical tools is easy on eBay, as the sellers offer new or used basic tools of good quality that are reliable, long lasting, and suitable for most common electrical jobs.
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