DIY Electrical Work: Get the Right Tools for the Job

For most minor electrical repairs, the tools that are really needed are a Phillips head screwdriver and a pair of pliers. If you plan on doing more serious work like replacing a faulty switch or a receptacle that has gone bad, then there are a ton of tools that you can buy to help with the task. Do you really need all that stuff? Probably not, but as we all know there are always tools for sale that look cool but we really don't need. In this article we will discuss what electricians tools are really worth owning and which are not.

Hand tools are a basic necessity of any working electrician. These include a hammer, several different size screwdrivers as well as the three basic types of bits. (Phillips head, cabinet, and standard) A simple set of nut driver bits along with other types that fit in a multi purpose screwdriver is all the home electrician really needs to fix most electrical problems. A tape measure and utility knife are very necessary tools also. Certainly electrical tape is not a tool to some but it is defiantly on the list of must haves for any electrician.

Some other tools that go unmentioned and are quite necessary are the cable strippers. The cable stripper isn't really a must have unless you plan on removing the sheathing on new wire. They become very handy when you are wiring new circuits. This simple tool basically fits over the end of an electrical wire and strips the sheathing off the outside without damaging the wires themselves. For beginners this tool is a must have. It is difficult to cut cable sheathing off without the wire inside becoming damaged.

The multipurpose tool is a must have when you are required to strip the end off the wire and expose the copper or aluminum to insert into a receptacle or switch. This provides a clean cut without damaging the soft metal wire inside. They also perform several different functions besides stripping, hence the name, multipurpose. It cam measure wire, gauge its thickness, cut wire, crimp wire connectors and thread and cut machine screws. Many of these tools come with other features also, so choose one that fits your particular needs.