Must-Have Electrical Tools for Homeowners
Having the right electrical tools on hand can make home electrical projects much safer and easier. Here are some must-have electrical tools that every homeowner should consider keeping in their toolbox.
Voltage Tester
A voltage tester, or non-contact voltage detector, is essential for checking if a circuit is live before working on it. This helps prevent electric shocks. Invest in a well-made voltage tester with an LED indicator and audible alarm.
Wire Strippers
Wire strippers are used to remove the plastic insulation from electrical wires. Choose self-adjusting wire strippers that can accommodate multiple wire sizes. This type of wire stripper will have holes of varying sizes to grip wires from 14 gauge to 24 gauge.
Lineman's Pliers
Also known as electrician's pliers, lineman's pliers feature both flat and serrated jaws for gripping, twisting, cutting and bending wires. The serrated jaws provide extra grip and prevent wires from slipping when twisting. Look for lineman's pliers made from hardened steel.
Insulated Screwdrivers
Standard flathead and Philips head screwdrivers with insulated handles prevent accidental shocks when working near live wires. Make sure to get insulated screwdrivers in different sizes like #1 and #2 Philips heads and small, medium and large flat heads.
Wire Cutter and Stripper
This handy tool combines wire cutters and strippers in one. It lets you neatly cut through wires and also strip the insulation. The auto-adjusting wire stripper grips tightly while the cutter blades make clean cuts through various gauge wires.
Multimeter
A digital multimeter is essential for measuring volts, amps and ohms. It can test circuitry to diagnose electrical faults, measure battery charge, confirm ground connections and much more. Invest in a sturdy, reliable multimeter like the Fluke 117 or Klein Tools MM700.
Safety Gear
Don't forget essential safety gear like insulated gloves rated for electrical work, safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris, and insulated mats to stand on while working on live circuits. Always turn off power at the breaker before working on electrical wiring whenever possible.
Having these basic electrical tools on hand will make DIY electrical projects safer and help you troubleshoot problems. Invest in commercial grade tools from reputable brands and always replace worn or damaged equipment.
Types of Electrical Wires and Cables
Choosing the right type of wire and cable is important for any electrical project. The key factors to consider are the wire material, gauge, number of conductors and insulation type.
Wire Materials
Copper is the most common conductor used in electrical wiring due to its high conductivity. However, aluminum and aluminum alloy wires are also sometimes used:
- Copper - Highly conductive and durable but more expensive than aluminum. Different types include solid and stranded.
- Aluminum - Lightweight and less expensive than copper but not as good a conductor. Can present safety hazards so requires proper connections.
- Copper-Clad Aluminum - Aluminum wire wrapped in a copper coating. Combines conductivity of copper with cost savings of aluminum.
Wire Gauge
The gauge refers to the diameter of the conductor inside the wire. Common gauges are:
| Gauge | Conductor Diameter |
|---|---|
| 14 | 1.6 mm |
| 12 | 2.0 mm |
| 10 | 2.6 mm |
Lower gauge numbers indicate thicker wires. Thicker wires can safely handle more current. Wire gauge is matched to the circuit voltage and required amps.
Single or Multiple Conductor
Wires may have a single solid conductor or multiple stranded conductors inside the insulation:
- Single Conductor - One solid circular conductor most often used for household wiring.
- Multi-Conductor - Multiple wire strands allow greater flexibility. Used for things like appliances and electronics.
Insulation Material
Common electrical wire insulation materials include:
- PVC - Durable vinyl insulation used for electrical cords and appliance wiring.
- THHN - Tough thermoplastic high heat-resistant nylon jacket for building wiring.
- Cross-Linked Polyethylene - More chemical and abrasion resistant than PVC.
- Teflon - Withstands high temps. Used in specialized wiring.
Choosing wire with insulation properly rated for the environment protects against shocks and fire hazards.
Putting it All Together
An example describing wire characteristics is "16 AWG 2-conductor SJOOW cable." This breaks down as:
- 16 AWG - 16 gauge wire diameter
- 2 conductor - 2 wires in the cable
- SJOOW - Insulation rating for the cable
When selecting electrical wires and cables, consider the intended application and all technical specifications to choose the optimal wire type.
Safety Tips for Using Electrical Tools
Electrical tools make jobs easier but can be dangerous if improperly used. Follow these tips to use electrical tools safely.
Use GFCIs
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) shut off power when a current leak is detected. Use GFCIs when using electrical tools near water or in damp areas to prevent shocks.
- Plug in tools to a GFCI outlet
- Use a portable GFCI adapter
- Choose cordless tools with built-in GFCI protection
Avoid Water Exposure
Keep tools dry and don't use any tool while standing in water. If a tool gets wet, unplug it immediately and thoroughly dry it before using again.
Inspect Cords
Check cords for damaged or exposed wiring. Do not use tools with frayed, cracked or damaged cords. Replace cords if needed.
Wear Protective Gear
- Insulated gloves rated for electrical work
- Safety goggles/glasses
- Long pants and closed toe shoes
Secure Workpieces
Clamp down or brace materials properly so they don't shift during operation. Don't try to hold small pieces by hand while working.
Don't Overload Circuits
Plug high-power tools like saws, drills and sanders directly into the wall outlet instead of into extension cords or power strips that can get overloaded.
Unplug When Not in Use
Always unplug a tool when changing accessories, adjusting blades, cleaning and any time the tool is unattended. This prevents accidental startup.
Following basic electrical safety protects you from shocks, fires, and injuries when using electrical tools. Consult tool manuals for additional safety tips specific to your equipment.
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Choosing the Right Electrical Outlets and Switches
Selecting suitable electrical outlets and switches for your home wiring ensures safe and proper electrical connections. Consider the following when choosing components:
Electrical Outlets
- Voltage rating - Match the outlet voltage to your electrical system, typically 120V.
- Amperage rating - Outlet must support appliance/device power needs.
- Number of receptacles - Consider how many items will be plugged in.
- Indoor vs. outdoor - Outdoor outlets need waterproof covers.
- Tamper-resistant - Code required in homes for child safety.
- GFCI protection - For protection in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Decorative style - Pick a decorative cover that matches your wall plates.
Light Switches
- Single-pole vs 3-way - Single-pole for one light, 3-way for multi-location control.
- Toggle, rocker, flip - Match the switch style you want.
- Dimmer - If you want light dimming capability.
- Timer or motion sensor - For automated lights.
- Smart switch - For app and voice control.
Get the Right Wire Gauge
Outlet and switch terminals are designed for specific wire gauges. Using the wrong gauge wire can lead to loose connections and overheating. Refer to device specs.
Match Your Decor
Choose outlet and switch wall plate covers that fit your room style - metal, plastic, wood, glass, etc. Get matching colors too.
Carefully selecting suitable outlets and switches ensures optimal safety, functionality and aesthetics.
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Top Electrical Testers and Multimeters
Essential electrical testing tools like testers and multimeters allow electricians and homeowners to troubleshoot circuits, measure current, detect faults, and confirm proper connections for home wiring projects.
Non-Contact Voltage Testers
Non-contact voltage testers quickly detect if a wire is live without needing to touch bare metal. The tip senses the electrical field around wires carrying current. Handy to check for hot wires in an electrical box before working.
- Fluke VoltAlert - Comes in both standard and "Pro" models with added features.
- Klein Tools Non-Contact Voltage Tester - With LED indicator and audible alert.
- Milwaukee Voltage Detector - Pocket-sized pen design with clip.
Multimeters
A digital multimeter (DMM) measures AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, continuity, diodes and more. Essential for detailed circuit testing and diagnosis.
- Fluke 117 - Reliable, accurate and easy to use. Electrician's favorite.
- Klein Tools MM700 - Automatic AC/DC voltage detection. Budget option.
- Amprobe AM-530 - Loaded with features including voltage detector.
Clamp Meters
Clamp style multimeters measure current via transformer jaws around a conductor. Useful for hard to reach conductors and measuring high amp circuits.
- Fluke 325 - Measures up to 400 amps AC. Includes some DMM functions.
- Tacklife CM02A - Measures both AC and DC current. Affordable price.
- Extech EX205T - Measures up to 2500A AC. CAT IV safety rated.
Continuity Testers
Basic continuity testers check for complete circuits. Handy for testing wires, fuses, connectors, and more.
- Klein Tools RT250 - Audible and visible continuity indication.
- Gardner Bender GCT-3300 - Also tests 9V batteries.
- Fluke 1AC-II - Advanced model also measures voltage.
Invest in quality electrical testers and meters from reputable brands for accurate troubleshooting and max safety.
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Essential Electrical Hardware for Installations and Repairs
Having the right electrical hardware on hand makes electrical projects safer, easier and more professional looking. Here are some must-have supplies.
Boxes and Conduit
Electrical boxes house wiring connections and mounts for devices. Conduit protects and routes the wires between boxes.
- Non-metallic sheathed cable (Romex) - For indoor box wiring runs.
- EMT metal conduit - Rigid conduit for exposed indoor/outdoor wiring.
- PVC conduit - Plastic conduit can be used outdoors.
- Weatherproof junction boxes - For outdoor fixtures and receptacles.
- Old work boxes - Easily install boxes in existing walls.
Wiring Connectors
Splicing connectors securely join copper wire conductors:
- Wire nuts - Twist-on connectors for solid and stranded wire.
- Wago connectors - Push-in style connections.
- Butt splices - Inline connectors soldered or crimped.
Wall Plates
Cover switch and outlet boxes with matching decorative wall plates.
Hand Tools
Lineman's pliers, cable cutters, strippers, screwdrivers, tape, measuring tape, levels, fish tape and more.
Labels and Markers
For accurately labeling and marking wires, cables and breaker panels.
Stock up on essential installation supplies so you have what you need for electrical projects without delays.
How to get an Amazon Prime subscription for a profit in "Electrical Tools & Hardware"
Amazon Prime is a very popular subscription service from Amazon that offers fast free shipping and other benefits. Many people already have Prime subscriptions, so you can actually make some money by getting Prime and sharing the free shipping perk.
The trick is to find someone who regularly shops on Amazon but doesn't want to pay for Prime themselves. Offer to add them to your Prime account as an additional user. This will give them free Prime shipping while you maintain the subscription.
You can have up to four total users on an Amazon Household that share Prime benefits. The owner manages the account and payment info. The other adult members of the household get their own login to access Prime shipping and features.
To add someone to your Prime Household:
- Go to Amazon Households in Your Account.
- Under Add Adult, enter the person's name and email.
- Amazon will send them an invite to join your Household.
- Once they accept, they will have access to your Prime membership.
Now that the person is sharing your Prime, ask them to pay you around half the yearly subscription cost. This could be $40-60 depending on the current Prime fee. Paying you directly saves them money compared to paying for their own Prime account.
You can repeat this with up to 3 more people, earning back most or all of your Prime subscription cost each year. Just make sure to only share Prime with trusted friends or family.
An added bonus is that Prime members get special deals on certain products. So you can take advantage of Prime member-only pricing on items like electrical tools and hardware. Your Prime subscription can quickly pay for itself while benefitting others!
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