Electrical Maintenance

Safety First

Electricity is nothing to take chances with. If you are not familiar with its potential, call a certified electrician. Never take chances and always have a helper handy to watch you work, should any problems arise.

Electrical Tools for the Do-It-Yourselfer

As with any other trade, there is a specific tool for every job. The right tool makes everything go better. You don't have to have a van load of tools to do some routine tasks though. The following tools will enable you to replace switches, outlets, light fixtures, breakers and install ceiling fans:

• Phillips Screwdriver
• Slotted (regular) Screwdriver
• Voltage Meter
• Crescent Wrench (or assortment of wrenches)
• Needle Nose Pliers
• Wire Strippers (a utility knife will do)

You also want to have a wide assortment of wire nuts and a healthy supply of electrical tape. As with most other projects, a battery powered drill/driver will help speed things along.
Of course, my electrician's tool pouch is full of various sizes of screwdrivers, hex drivers, pliers, a tape measure, drywall saw etc… but you don't need all that for most jobs.