When there is a power outage or a certain appliance no longer works due to an electrical short, we call an electrician to make repairs. Every electrician has knowledge and equipment to help them carry out certain tasks, and some equipment has more use than others. Here are four tools that every electrician should have while on the job.
Screwdriver
Most electrical devices or appliances have screws to secure and seal them, which is why a screwdriver is essential for any electrician. Small devices and newer electronics will have Phillips head screws, while some older hatches and panels may have flat head screws, which is why carrying both will prove the most effective while working on the job. Screwdrivers may also help pry open panels that have become too snug to easily lift.
Flashlight
As an electrician, you may have jobs where you will need to enter dark spaces to make repairs. A flashlight is a handy tool every electrician should bring to work, as it will ensure you safely move through dark spaces. There may be control panels for a building’s electricity in basements with dark corners or jobs where you’ll need to change a light fixture and your light source to see what you’re doing. You may want to invest in a flashlight with an adjustable light so your eyes won’t become affected by the glare shining off of metal.
Cable Strippers
Cable management is one of the primary responsibilities of an electrician, and you may need to deconstruct cables to fix a problem. There are various types of cable strippers with different uses, each capable of stripping the protective jacket from a cable and exposing the wires underneath. An adjustable cable stripper is a great tool to have on hand because it adjusts to the size of the cable and makes stripping easier.
Digital Multimeter
It’s important to have all the information you can before attempting to fix something flowing with electricity, which is why a digital multimeter is an essential tool for any electrician. The multimeter will measure the voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical source so you can make the best decisions on how to fix it properly. Having the measurements on a digital display will make reading them easier, and you will see the measurements in volts, amps, and ohms if you need to make calculations.
Your work as an electrician is important, and you should have the right tools to do the job. These tools will be essential to your success on the job, so make sure you have them in arms reach so you can complete the job effectively and efficiently.