As a novice electrician, it can be difficult to know what tools are needed. For this reason, we have compiled this list of 30 tools that every apprentice electrician should have.
Pliers are versatile tools that can be used for gripping, bending, and cutting. If you want to become an electrician, you need a variety of pliers.
Nine-inch pliers are usually the tool of choice. As the name implies, nine-inch pliers are known for their nine-inch handles. This handle length provides you with maximum leverage. Most electricians recommend having two sets on hand.
On some jobs, you may find that you need a large wrench to get a good grip on different materials. In these cases, adjustable pliers are a godsend because they can be adjusted to extend for smaller workpieces and larger ones.
One of the most difficult parts of becoming an electrician is working in very small spaces. Invest in sharp-nosed pliers to make your job easier. These pliers are designed so that they can get into small places or grip small objects.
Wrenches help you get a good grip and apply force to tight objects. As an electrician, you will be using wrenches all the time. Here are some wrenches to consider adding to your collection.
Like movable pliers, movable wrenches allow you to fit the wrench to almost any size you need. This can be invaluable if you find yourself in a situation where you have a non-standard-sized object.
You can never go without an Allen wrench, which makes it one of our personal favorites. These wrenches feature a small L-shaped design that helps you loosen and tighten hexagonal settings.
Pipe wrenches allow you to grip and turn hoses or tubing. These wrenches are necessary for almost any trade job.
If you are an apprentice electrician, then you probably already have a variety of screwdrivers. Nevertheless, here are the most important screwdrivers to make sure you have on hand.
Phillips screwdrivers are by far the most common type of screwdriver. It is assumed that you will be using it for almost all of your work. We recommend carrying two or more on hand to make sure you have it when you need it.
Occasionally, you will find an odd-sized screw on the job. Make sure you have what you need by putting a multi-head screwdriver in your kit. This will allow you to still work even on non-standard screws.
Another very popular screwdriver that you will use often is the flat head screwdriver. You will need a full set of these, including a variety of sizes. To save some money, look for screwdriver kits that include Phillips and flathead screwdrivers in a variety of sizes.
A stubby flathead screwdriver is like a regular flathead screwdriver, but with a square blade tip. This allows it to reach extremely tight spaces that other screwdrivers simply can't reach.
Although a conduit reamer is not exactly a screwdriver, it works on a similar principle. It works with drill chucks and quick release adapters, reducing the time and wrist fatigue of extensive catheter work.
You will often find yourself needing to cut plasterboard, wood, metal, plastic, etc. on the job. Get yourself a variety of knives and saws to make this process easy and simple.
This is another tool you may already own. As an electrician, you will need to cut wires. A side cutter will allow you to cut wires easily and efficiently.
A jab saw is a great way to make small cuts in plasterboard. You will find this especially useful when installing electrical boxes on finished walls.
Laying electrical wiring often requires you to cut different types of materials, from wood to metal. Keep a hacksaw in your kit to ensure you can cut any material that might get in your way.
If your hacksaw is not big enough to do the job, keep a reciprocating saw in your toolkit or utility truck. This will come in handy when you need to cut larger pieces of wood, plastic, metal, etc.
A hobby knife is a knife with a retractable blade. This provides a very safe knife that can also produce ultra-precise cuts. Always have a hobby knife on hand, because you never know when you might need one.
You're sure to encounter a lot of wire insulation. You can easily strip this insulation with durable and long-lasting wire stripping pliers.
Electricians need some of the most powerful cutting equipment available. Get a cable cutter so you can easily and safely cut copper and aluminum wire.
Since you use electricity, you need to test for current and continuity. Here are 2 similar tools to add to your toolkit.
Be able to use a voltage/ohm multimeter to determine the continuity of wires or current. If you don't already have one, be sure to get a reliable model. They are very easy to use, but they are the main tool in the electrician's tool belt.
A socket tester is similar to a multimeter, except it is designed specifically for socket outputs. This would be a super-easy way to check the working sockets and lights.
The following are various other necessary tools.
Nut drivers tighten nuts and bolts. They are more effective than pliers and wrenches because they are shaped like nuts. Using a nut driver instead of pliers to tighten nuts can save some time.
Almost everyone who owns or rents their own home has a crook hammer, but don't let the versatility of this tool fool you. As an apprentice electrician, you will regularly use a crook hammer to remove nails.
Worn conduit edges are both dangerous and unsightly. Use a reliable pipe reamer to smooth out your pipe. It's always a good idea to keep a reamer handy.
This is another very common tool that electricians can't live without. A tape measure will ensure that you get all your wiring and construction right, making you the most professional and reliable electrician possible. Never forget to bring a tape measure to the job site.
Torpedo levels help determine if a surface is a level, but they are designed with small places in mind. With a torpedo level, you can mount it anywhere from 6 to 12 inches in size. As an electrician, you will be working in small places. Therefore, purchase torpedo levels to make sure your level fits them.
You often find that you need to drill holes and need to have drill bits. Instead of worrying about where the drill can be inserted, use a cordless drill. An electric drill will provide enough power to do the job, but it will be more portable and lighter.
Access locks can make installing conduits easier.
Crimp connectors are typically used to terminate stranded wire. This will allow you to create a safer, more professional airtight product.
Arguably one of the most important tools on hand is a pair of highly dexterous gloves. Since you will be working with your hands, protect them as much as possible. If you are working with dangerous or sharp materials, wear gloves.
Finally, you will need a place where you can store all of these tools. Have a tool belt so that all the materials you need are on hand. The last thing you want to do is interrupt your work by having to go to or from your toolbox to pick up the items you need. Just put them on your tool belt and you're ready to go!
Finding the right tools is the first step to becoming an apprentice electrician. Don't appear inexperienced by having all the tools you need from the start. Once you get your tools, make sure you maintain them properly so they can last a lifetime.
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