When it comes to electrical work, safety should always be your top priority. To work on your home’s electrical system and devices, you must have the proper tools and know how to use them correctly.
This is one reason many homeowners choose to hire a qualified electrician for these types of projects. Electricians rely on a variety of tools to do their job efficiently and safely. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common electrical tools that you should know about.
Voltage Tester
A voltage tester is used to detect the presence of electricity in a circuit or device. It is a simple device that identifies whether a circuit is live by producing an audible signal or lighting up. Electricians use it to ensure that the circuit they are working on is safe and free from electrical surprises.
Voltage testers come in a variety of options with two popular types: contact and non-contact voltage testers. Contact testers are used with a wire probe to touch the circuit while non-contact testers just need to be brought close to the circuit to detect voltage.
Multimeter
An electrical multimeter is a tool used to measure several electrical properties such as current, voltage, and resistance. It can also be used to test circuits, diagnose malfunctions and determine if components are working as intended. With its ability to measure both AC and DC current, a multimeter is essential in troubleshooting electrical systems.
Clamp Meter
Clamp meters measure the current flowing through a wire. They are useful for troubleshooting electrical problems, as they can identify faulty circuits and measure the current at different points in a circuit. These devices can be used without having to disconnect or deenergize a circuit.
Circuit Breaker Finder
A circuit breaker finder is a tool that helps electricians to identify the circuit breaker that controls a specific circuit. When you need to turn off a circuit to replace or fix a light or device, it can be difficult to locate the correct circuit breaker in a panel with many breakers. A circuit breaker finder helps to locate the right circuit breaker quickly.
Pliers
Many tools are not specific to electricians. Pliers are one example of a common tool that is key to the work of electricians. They come in several forms, including needle-nose, side-cutting, and long-nose varieties. Electricians use them to cut and shape wires, twist conductors, and grip connectors, nuts, and bolts.
Wire Strippers
A wire stripper is used to remove the insulation from wires. It has notches that match the size of the wire gauge, and it cuts through the outer layer to expose the conducting wire underneath. Wire strippers are essential tools for wiring and electrical installations, to ensure that wires are stripped properly and safely.
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are necessary tools for any electrical work since nearly all electrical devices and connections use screws to secure housing in place. Electricians use them to loosen and tighten screws that hold wires and devices.
Conduit
Electrical conduit is a system of tubing used to protect and route wires and cables in electrical installations. The use of electrical conduit is incredibly important in electrical wiring, as without it, wires could become damaged or pose a risk of electrocution. By encasing wires in the conduit, they are safe from the elements, rodents, and other hazards. Additionally, electrical conduit aids in the organization and management of cables, making it easier to access and maintain electrical systems.
Fish Tape
Fish tapes allow electricians to run wires behind walls and ceilings. Fish tapes are long, flat, and flexible devices that come in various lengths and widths. They can be fed through conduit pipes to reach difficult-to-access areas.
Get a Quote for Your Next Electrical Project
Electrical work requires skills, knowledge, and the right tools. The above list of electrical tools helps you identify and understand more about the work professional electricians perform. Tools keep workers and property safe when dealing with electricity.
At Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric, we have a team of licensed electricians who can help you install, maintain, or repair your electrical system. Call us to schedule an appointment today, and we will ensure your home is safe and up to date with the latest electrical standards.
