What does it take to be an electrician? Well, after a years-long apprenticeship, and rigorous testing and licensing it takes a lot of tools. Here are the best electrician tools that make the job safer and easier.
Electrician Basics
Pliers
For electrical work purpose, your pliers need to have a sharp edge so that they can be used to twist and cut the wires. Some of the most common pliers include reaming pliers, side-cutting pliers, and needle-nose pliers. Make sure the handles are rubber-coated.
Screwdrivers
This is another toolbox staple that is used for fastening and loosening various hardware pieces. Again, buy them with insulated handles.
Tape Measure
Electrical work revolves around wires, which means you have to constantly measure and calculate the length of wire that is needed. A tape measure allows you to do this, and the new models, such as those having multi-step locks and magnetic tips, can make your job easier.
Electrical Drill
To install more wires for new lighting fixtures, a drill comes in handy. It speeds up the task and allows you to drill precise holes for specific purposes.
Level
A level is a small strip that allows you to drill holes in the right places for fixtures and screws.
Electrician Staples
Wire Strippers
Wire strippers have a serrated mouth that allows you to peel the outer covering of the wire and make customized connections.
Fish Tape
This is one of the best electrician tools that make your job easy when you are doing electrical work in narrow spaces. It’s a retractable coil that can run between gang boxes through conduit piping. As the coil comes out at the other end, it is hooked to the fish tape and can be retracted to pull the wire out.
Voltage Tester
A voltage tester allows you to do electrical work safely. By touching it to the socket or circuit board, you can find out if they are active.
Reaming Bit
A reaming bit is an accessory that is attached to the drill. It widens the opening and allows you to connect pipes so that the conduit can be secured.
Conduit Bender
A conduit bender does exactly what it says: bending the wire to a certain degree so that it runs along with specific areas of the wall. This allows you to carefully hide the wires to preserve the aesthetic appeal of the house.
Flashlights
A flashlight is a perfect tool when working in tight and dark places. It’s time to leave that lantern behind.
Insulated Gloves
Getting electrocuted is not fun. Insulated gloves, generally made of rubber, prevent electricity from passing through, which makes them one of the best electrician tools.
Safety Glasses
Last but not least, when operating power tools, you need to protect your eyes from the sparks that fly.
We cannot stress this enough – electrical work should be treated with extreme caution. It’s better to err on the side of caution and call the pros– after all, it’s what we love to do!