8 Basic Tools Electricians Use for Home Electrical Work

You need some basic tools for electricians when fixing things or making them better at home. For most jobs with electricity in your house, you’ll mainly use basic electrical tools you probably already have, like a hammer, a tape measure, a laser level, and flathead and Phillips screwdrivers. Sometimes, you might also find it helpful to have some of the best electrician tools like a voltage tester, wire stripper, and linesman pliers. Apart from the usual tools at home, below are more tools you can add to your toolbox!

Electrical Tape

You can use electrical tape to cover wires or stuff that carries electricity. Some folks call it insulation tape or electrical insulation tape. It’s easy to stick on because it has glue on one side and it’s good at resisting wear and tear, heat, and liquids. This keeps the important inside part of electric wires safe. This tape comes in different types, like PVC, vinyl, copper foil, and glass cloth. They also make it in various colors, widths, thicknesses, and it can handle different temperatures. Some stick really well, and others are better at insulating, but you can pick the one that fits your needs.
 

Voltmeter or Multimeter

A voltmeter is used to check if a circuit has electricity running through it or not. It tells you how much electricity is there, not just if it’s on or off like a circuit tester does. There are fancier versions called multimeters that can do even more. They can measure things like voltage, how much electricity is flowing, resistance, and some other electrical stuff. But using them right takes some practice.
 

Torpedo Level

You should have a small level, like a torpedo level, in your tool pouch. It helps make sure your work is straight and upright. When you’re setting up things like electrical boxes, switches, and outlets, it’s important they’re level and not crooked. A torpedo level is useful not only for electrical jobs but for many other tasks around your home. It’s a useful tool to keep in your toolbox.
 

Cable Cutters

Cable cutters are an essential part of any electrician’s toolbox. These essential tools come with sturdy steel blades that can easily cut through regular wires. If you have tougher cables to deal with, more robust cable shears can handle them without a problem. Cable cutters also come in handy for quickly removing insulation when you need to do tasks like crimping.

There are different types of cable cutters available for various cutting needs. Some are designed for general use, while others are specialized for tasks like flush cutting or diagonal slicing. If you work with high voltage wiring or in environments with a lot of electrostatic discharge, you might want to consider fully insulated models.
 

Spanners

Spanners are a must-have in your toolbox, especially if you often need to tighten or loosen nuts, bolts, or similar fasteners. Because there are many different sizes of bolts and nuts, you’ll find various spanner designs to ensure they fit snugly. It’s crucial to choose the right size to get a firm grip on the fastener and the head that turns it. This way, you’ll get the job done properly.
 

Fish Tapes

Fish tape is one of the most useful electrical wiring tools that helps you pull wires, whether they’re stranded or solid, through metal or PVC conduit. If you’re having trouble getting those wires through, you can use cable lube to make it easier. Fish tape also comes in handy when you’re pulling NM cable through the spaces within walls.

You typically use this tool when you’re working on electrical upgrades, like adding new circuits or extending them. If you’re just doing simple electrical fixes as a casual DIYer, you might not need fish tape. However, if you’re more experienced with DIY projects, it’s a useful tool to have in your kit.
 

Hex Keys

Hex keys, also known as Allen keys or Allen wrenches, are tools specially designed for turning hexagonal fasteners and screws. They get their name from the shape of the fasteners they work with. These tools can be crafted from various materials, including steel, nickel, bronze, or copper alloys. You can find them in four main types: straight hex keys, L-shaped hex keys, folding hex keys, and T-handle hex keys.

Coaxial Cable Compression Tool

You can get a handy coaxial cable compression tool for under $20, which can be a real help when you’re working with cables in your home or setting up a TV antenna. This simple-to-use coaxial cable crimper tool is great for changing F connectors or fixing a coax cable, ensuring your TV and internet connections stay strong without any signal leakage.
 

Get Your Hands on Basic Tools for Electricians You Can Use at Home

Equip yourself with the best electrician tools for electrical work and home improvement. From basic hand tools like hammers and screwdrivers to specialized equipment such as voltmeters and cable cutters, having the right tools ensures your projects are safe and successful. Don’t forget to add items like electrical tape, a torpedo level, spanners, fish tapes, hex keys, and a coaxial cable compression tool to your toolbox, giving you the confidence to tackle any task. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned electrician, these tools will help you get the job done efficiently.