Think convenience. A set of screwdrivers is essential, but a power screwdriver will save time and effort. A sonic room measurer can make calculating room size a breeze.
Step2
Get a good set of pliers. You'll need needle nose pliers to hold and bend wires, Linesman pliers for cutting and twisting, and a combination wire stripper/cutter. Diagonal cutters are also very handy.
Step3
Save time: Keep a calculator and small notepad in your toolbox.
Step4
Make sure you always have a utility knife and extra blades. These too are essential for any electrical work.
Step5
Keep electrical tape (two colors) and duct tape on hand, as well as a pencil, a Sharpie marker, and a few colored pencils for marking wiring diagrams.
Step6
Look for a good level and a 12-inch square.
Step7
Find a good tape measure with a lock on it.
Step8
Outfit yourself with a tool belt for portability on ladders.
Step9
Pick up a set of nut drivers, which will make installing boxes much easier.
Step10
Include a crescent wrench or two on your shopping list.
Step11
Get a good circuit tester with a light on it. You don't want any surprises. You may also want to pick up an electrical code pocket reference.
Step12
Be sure that your toolbox will accommodate a hacksaw, hammer, and power drill. You'll also need some spade bits for wood, a drill bit extension, and assorted regular bits as well as a keyhole saw for cutting sheet rock.
Step13
Put some wire nuts and tie wraps in your toolbox, along with an extension cord rated for outdoor use.
Step14
Don't forget to buy a fish tape for fishing wires through walls and pipes.
Tips & Warnings
Buy tools as needed to save yourself from putting out a large amount of money up front for tools that may not be needed.
on 9/11/2006
I keep a small LED headlamp (one that extends enough to fit my hardhat) hitched on my tool carrier. These are available at camping stores, the batteries last for 100+ hours because of the low draw of the LED's and they cast as wide, white light and leave your hands free.
on 11/22/2005
Uni-bit to increase hole sizes in panels/j-boxes, etc. Basic holesaw kit 1/2"-2". Pipe reamer/screwdriver combo. Cordless drill. Set of drill bits in various sizes. Hot stick (checks circuit to see if it's hot, visually & audibly). Channel locks, 2 pairs.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 9/11/2006 I keep a small LED headlamp (one that extends enough to fit my hardhat) hitched on my tool carrier. These are available at camping stores, the batteries last for 100+ hours because of the low draw of the LED's and they cast as wide, white light and leave your hands free.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Another useful tool is a flashlight. Once you have shut off the power to do your work safe, you may be working in the dark.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Uni-bit to increase hole sizes in panels/j-boxes, etc. Basic holesaw kit 1/2"-2". Pipe reamer/screwdriver combo. Cordless drill. Set of drill bits in various sizes. Hot stick (checks circuit to see if it's hot, visually & audibly). Channel locks, 2 pairs.