Electricians perform a vital service to keep so much of our lives afloat. Keeping our homes warm, our workplaces operational and our children’s schools in action.
It is estimated that there are around 45,000 registered business offering electrical services in the UK and if you’re considering joining that number, here are the absolute essentials you will need in your toolbag from day one.
Wire strippers
These handy tools will remove the protective covering on electrical wires without damaging the important bits inside. Pretty much an electrical job will involve wiring of some description and having a complete set of strippers will help you keep moving.
Insulated screwdrivers
Whether screwing wires into place in a circuit or attaching assembled machinery to a mounting, screwdrivers are a must for just about any trade. However, it is especially important for electricians to invest in those that will not conduct electricity and open the door for nasty shocks!
Insulated pliers
A complete set of pliers will help you access and manipulate wires in tight spaces. Again, be sure to invest in some that are made of insulating material to ensure that you do not suffer from an electric shock.
Electrical tape
Electrical tape can help to improve the insulation of an electrical system, making it safer for you and future users. Remember, the different colours of electrical tape are not for aesthetic purposes. Each serves a specific purpose to tell you and future users what kind of wires are contained, be they live, neutral or earth.
Multimeter
Multimeters, like these here, are vital tools for checking the safety of an electrical installation. A typical Multimeter will provide readings for voltage, resistance and current. Most modern multimeters include a digital display, making it easier to take readings and be certain that you are complying with safety regulations.
Wall chaser
A kind of circular saw, this tool is ideal for cutting channels into walls when running cables around a room, for example to light switches of power sockets. Cutting precise channels makes it easier to repair walls once the installation is complete.
Cordless drill
Whether fixing items to walls or cutting cable channels into floorboards and walls, a good cordless drill with long-lasting battery power is ideal for any electrician. Corded varieties will offer more power and run time, but tend to be more cumbersome and do not work well in the tighter spaces often inhabited by a spark.
A torch
You’ll need to turn the power off while you work, so that might mean no light. Whether you’re running lighting cables through a loft for an upstairs rewire, or fitting out a basement that is yet to be restructured, a flexible and fixable torch will help you shine a light on any workspace. Similarly, a light that fixes to a headband will make sure you do not have to deal with shadows when working up close with small systems.