25 Top Basic Electrical Tools which are used by an Electrician

Electrical work is essential in a variety of industries, including building, manufacturing, and household maintenance. The safety and efficiency of electrical work are highly dependent on the use of the proper tools. This post will go into the key aspects of 15 basic electrical tools, highlighting their vital function and the primary concern for safety.

What are Electrical Tools?

Electrical tools are used to do the electrical work like electrical wiring installations. By using this tool we can do the installation of electrical wire properly and quickly. We must be able to choose the right equipment or tools to do the electrical work then only the quality of our work will improve. By using electrical Tools we could do the electrical tasks effortlessly.

Importance of Using Electrical Tools

Precision and precision: Using the proper tools ensures accuracy & efficiency in electrical installations & maintenance.

Different tools correspond to specific electrical activities, increasing productivity.

Using the proper tools reduces the likelihood of errors (or) malfunctions, assuring quality work.

Electrical Work Safety Issues

• Inadequate tools (or) malfunctioning equipment might put workers at danger of electrocution.
• Using the wrong tools can result in short circuits (or) electrical fires.
• Considering the need for suitable PPE to be used during electrical work

Understanding the various electrical tools is necessary for any type of electrical work. This post defines different tool categories and their respective functionality.

What are Hand Tools?

Any tool used by skilled workers for manual tasks is referred to as a hand tool.

Simple tools that have been utilized with the hands that are typically not powered are called hand tools. Any tool that is powered by hand instead of a motor is referred to as a hand tool. 

The following are some examples: 

1. Screwdrivers, 
2. Vises, 
3. Clamps, 
4. Snips, 
5. Drills,
6. Cutters,
7. Striking tools and
8. Struck (or) Hammered tools.

What is the difference between Hand Tools and Machine Tools?

Hand tools are tools that can be used or operated by our hands without using electrical energy; it doesn’t need any external power. While machine tools are tools that require electrical energy and they are operated by our hands too.

Difference Between Hand Tools and Power Tools

Hand Tools vs Power Tools

Factors to be considered for Choosing Electrical Tools

Choosing the correct electrical tools necessitates careful consideration of a number of criteria in order to ensure safety, efficiency, & performance in their use.

Safety Features 

Grounding and Insulation

• Understanding the significance of insulation in electrical shock prevention.
• Grounding systems are used to securely redirect excess electrical current.

Overload Protection 

• Exploration tools that include overload protection measures.
• The significance of preventing tool damage & ensuring user safety.

Longevity and Durability

Material Quality

• Testing the materials utilized in tool manufacturing for toughness and wear resistance.
• Understanding the impact of material quality on tool longevity.

Reputation of the Manufacturer

• Evaluating a manufacturer’s reputation and dependability in manufacturing sturdy and long-lasting instruments.
• Analysis and perspectives from other users regarding tool durability.

Comfort in Long-Term Use

Pro-Longevity

• Understanding how design concepts can lessen user stress throughout prolonged use.
• Grip, weight distribution, & handle design all have an impact on comfort.

Effect on Efficiency

• Check their design concepts that improve workplace efficiency and productivity.
• Reduces strain & potential injuries, resulting in smoother workflows.

Precision and Accuracy

• The importance of calibrated measurement instruments for reliable readings.
• Ensure that tools give accurate measurements for work.

Standards and Certifications to Consider for Choosing Electrical Tools

ISO 9001: Specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS), ensuring that the tools meet consistent quality and safety standards.

IEC 60900: Specifies requirements for hand tools used for working with live or potentially live electrical equipment, ensuring they are safe for use in electrical installations.

ANSI/ESD S20.20: Focuses on electrostatic discharge control, important for tools used in environments sensitive to static electricity.

CE Marking Indicates that the tool complies with the health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).

ATEX Certification required for tools used in explosive atmospheres, ensuring they are safe for use in environments where there is a risk of explosion due to flammable gases or dust.

Importance of Standards and Certifications in Electrical Tools

Compliance with these standards guarantees that the tools are designed to minimize the risk of electrical hazards, such as shock, fire, and injury.

Tools that meet these certifications are built to last and perform reliably under various working conditions.

Using certified tools ensures compliance with local and international regulations, preventing potential legal and liability issues.

Tools that carry recognized certifications provide users with confidence in their safety, quality, and effectiveness.

What is in an electricians tool kit?

Electrical tools are those that are used to work on electrical systems. 

1. Wire 
2. Cable cutters, 
3. Wire strippers, 
4. Coaxial compression tools, 
5. Telephony tools, 
6. Wire cutter/strippers, 
7. Cable tie tools, 
8. Accessories, and 
9. Other tools 

may be included.

Which Tool is used by Electrical Technician?

1. Voltage testers, 
2. Wire strippers, and 
3. Linesman pliers 

are examples of specialty electrical tools that may be found in most household facilities, hardware retailers, electrical supply stores, and online sellers.

What are the Best Electrician Hand Tools?

1. Pliers
2. Wire strippers
3. Electrician Knife
4. Screwdrivers 
5. Hammers 
6. Electric drill 
7. Wirepullers 
8. EMT bender 
9. Soldering tools 
10. Wire gauge 
11. Hacksaw 
12. Voltage tester 
13. Multi-meter 
14. Micrometer 
15. Wrenches

are the best electrician hand tools

What is a Wire Splicer Tool?

A small, handheld tool called a wire stripper is utilized for removing the insulation from electrical cables. When replacing or repairing wires, electricians and individuals use these lightweight, portable hand tools to remove insulation.

Which tool is used to cut wires?

Wire is cut with diagonal cutting pliers. They cut wire through indenting & wedging the cables apart (rather than shearing as scissors can).

What are the Basic Electrical Tools?

Basic electrical tools include pliers, screwdrivers, wire strippers, voltage testers, tape measures, multimeters, fish tape, flashlights, wrenches, and insulated gloves. These tools are essential for safe and efficient electrical work.

What are the basic tools for an electrician?

1). Pliers

Pliers can be used for cutting, twisting, bending, holding, and gripping of wires and cables. The handles of the pliers will be insulated and it can’t be considered as sufficient protection. There are different types of pliers 

Side cutting pliers can be used for cutting electrical wires and small nails. Longnose pliers can be used for cutting and holding of fine wires and they can be used in tight space, these types of pliers are commonly used for making terminal loops in copper wire. Diagonal pliers are used for cutting medium or fine wires; they are also used in bending small faces of soft metal.

2). Wire Strippers 

Wire strippers are used to remove the insulation of wires, mostly medium-sized wires ranging from gauge 10 to gauge 16. Wire strippers are also used to remove the insulation of rubber covered wires from gauge 26 to gauge 10.

3). Electrician Knife 

These knives are used by lineman to remove the insulation of big cables in high and low voltage transmission lines 

4). Screwdrivers 

Screwdrivers can be used to loosen or tighten screws with slotted heads, screwdrivers are in various sizes and shapes. Screwdrivers are made up of steel and they are tempered at the tip. According to the size and shape of screw different types of screwdrivers are used.

5). Hammers 

Hammers are tools which are used for pounding and pulling out of nails, there are soft and hard-faced hammers. Hard faced hammers can be used to strike hard objects and they have a cylindrical-shaped head. The soft-faced hammer is used for the rewinding process. Mostly soft-faced hammers are made up of rubber or plastic. There are different types of hammers like a claw hammer, ball peen hammer and mallet.

6). Electric Drill

These devices are used to drill holes in metal sheets and concrete walls, they can be used to make holes in building structures for the passage of wires and conduit. They can be useful for indoor and outdoor wiring.

7). Wirepullers 

Wire Pullers are used to pull wires into conduit or raceways, these devices will be very helpful for wire pulling.

8). EMT Bender

EMT bender can be used to bend electrical metal tubing, it could be able to do back to backbend in conduits, they can also do saddle bend and can be used to straighten the conduit.

9). Soldering Tools 

Soldering tools can be used to make splices and tap connections in wires. Many connections can be done with the help of this device. Soldering must be done perfectly in order to get a better connection.

10). Wire Gauge 

Wire gauge can be used to measure the thickness or diameter of the wires, it can be used in sizing conductors. The wire gauge can be used to measure from gauge 0 to 36.

11). Hacksaw 

Hacksaws can be used to cut metal conduit and armored cable, it can also be used to cut the small and medium-sized metals.

12). Voltage Tester

Voltage tester can be called as a major tool for an electrician, a voltage tester is used to check if there is voltage in a wire or in a conductor before using it. Digital voltage testers are available which shows the presence of an electric field. Voltage testers are not used to measure high-level voltages, usually they are not used to measure voltages exceeding 250 volts.

13). Multi-meter

A multimeter can be used to measure voltage, current, resistance, and capacitance, conductance, and frequency so this instrument could measure almost all things which is needed for an electrician. This meter can show the exact reading too. There are digital and analog multimeters available in the market.

14). Micrometer

A micrometer can be used to measure small and large sizes of wires, it is also used to remove the diameter of circular wires. A micrometer can measure the diameter of thin wire accurately or thickness of sheet metal.

15). Wrenches

Wrenches are instruments that can be used to turn nuts or hold the piece of stock when tightening screws, nuts, and bolts. There are different types of wrenches like adjustable wrenches, pipe wrench, vise grip wrench.

16). Coaxial Cable Compression Tool

A Coaxial Cable Compression Tool is used to attach connectors to coaxial cables, ensuring a secure and reliable connection for transmitting video, data, or signals.

17). Tape Measure

A Tape Measure is a retractable, flexible ruler used to measure distances, lengths, or spaces accurately. It’s essential for planning electrical installations and ensuring precise placement.

18). Torpedo Level

A Torpedo Level is a compact leveling tool with vials for vertical, horizontal, and 45-degree angles, used to ensure that electrical installations are perfectly aligned.

19). Flashlight

A Flashlight provides portable illumination in low-light conditions, helping electricians work safely and efficiently in dimly lit areas or during night-time repairs.

20). Allen Wrench Set (Hex Set)

An Allen Wrench Set includes hexagonal-shaped keys used to drive bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets, commonly found in electrical panels and equipment.

21). Tongue-and-Groove Pliers

Tongue-and-Groove Pliers, also known as channel locks, are adjustable pliers used for gripping, turning, and tightening large objects like pipes, conduits, or connectors.

22). Needle-Nose Pliers

Needle-Nose Pliers have long, thin jaws ideal for reaching into tight spaces, bending wires, and holding small components during intricate electrical work.

23). Fish Tape

Fish Tape is a long, flexible tool used for routing wires through walls, conduits, or other confined spaces, essential for efficient wire installation.

24). Wire Crimpers

Wire Crimpers are tools used to join two pieces of metal by deforming one or both to hold the other, essential for making secure wire connections.

25). Cable Tracers

Cable Tracers help identify and trace the path of wires or cables within walls or bundles, making it easier to locate faults or specific connections.

Top Brands for High-Quality Electrical Tools

Here are some top brands recognized for producing high-quality electrical tools, trusted by professionals for their reliability, performance, and innovation.

1. Klein Tools – Renowned for durable, professional-grade hand tools.
2. Fluke – Specializes in reliable testing and measurement instruments.
3. Milwaukee – Offers a wide range of power tools and accessories.
4. DeWALT – Known for robust and high-performance power tools.
5. Greenlee – Provides tools for electrical work, including cutters, pliers, and testers.
6. Ideal Industries – Known for wire connectors, testers, and hand tools.
7. Southwire – Produces innovative electrical tools and equipment.
8. Bosch – Offers precision-engineered power tools and accessories.
9. Wiha – High-quality insulated hand tools for electricians.
10. Makita – Offers a broad range of power tools and accessories for electrical work.

These brands are trusted by professionals for their reliability, performance, and innovation.