5 Tools Apprentice Electricians Need

There are so many useful applications for knowing the skills, practices, and labors of an electrician. Even if you don’t end up making your electrical work into a long-term career, the skills that you’ll develop will always come in handy in your daily life and home. If you know that you have an electrical apprenticeship in the near future, there are a few different tools you’ll be needing. Here are five tools that all apprentice electricians will need to be successful.

Pliers

One of the most basic, but most important tools that you’ll need is a good pair of pliers. There are certain pliers, like lineman’s pliers, that are well equipped with a variety of tools that will help you in different electrical responsibilities. Lineman’s pliers have a flat, stub nose, a firm gripping surface, a sharp cutting edge, angular edges, a crimper, and even an insulated handle. These features will come in handy to straighten, cut, twist, pull, and prepare all sorts of wires, metal, nails, staples, and pipes.

Stripping Tool

Next, you’ll need to obtain a stripping tool. This is one of the tools that you’ll use regularly on a daily basis. Most types of electrical wire that you’ll be using come with insulation to protect the wire when it is installed in your home. You can use the stripping tool to cut and remove the insulation and prep the exposed wires for electrical application. Some stripping tools even have cable cutting blades or plier clamps, which can be super helpful if you’re in a pinch and need a multi-tool.

Screwdrivers

You will also need a screwdriver to help you with some of your regular electrician responsibilities. This might seem like a basic tool, but you will need to use it quite often as you’re getting into tight spots. You’ll have lots of tightening and loosening screws as you’re working around the house. Just make sure that your screwdriver is insulated so it protects you from any electrical shocks that might occur.

Voltage Tester

Another important tool that you’ll need to have a successful apprenticeship is a voltage tester. Voltage testers help you to test for and detect live voltage, or power. This will help you to complete your tasks in a safe way without risking electrocution. You can use your voltage tester to check any circuits, outlets, wires, or switches for live voltage.

Fish Tape

Finally, don’t forget to buy some fish tape as you’re collecting your different electrical tools. Fish tape can help you to maneuver wires through conduits and spaces that are a little too narrow or tricky to reach on your own. If you know that you’ll be doing a lot of electrical work in homes, this will be an invaluable tool for you. You’ll need it to draw new wiring through walls and hard-to-reach areas.

So, if you’re trying to get geared up for an electrical apprenticeship soon, make sure that you keep this article in mind. Remember that you’ll need pliers, a stripping tool, screwdrivers, a voltage tester, and fish tape, among some other tools. This will help you to have a successful and well-prepared internship. You’ll be able to take the most advantage of your learning opportunity when you have the right tools on hand.

Are you starting an electrician apprenticeship soon? Do you need to stock up on some of these necessary tools? Click here to check out the supplies available at Big Electric Supply.