What are the electrician power tools?

Introduction

Electricians rely on a wide array of power tools to perform tasks efficiently and safely. These tools are designed to handle various jobs, including cutting, drilling, fastening, measuring, and testing electrical components. The right tools not only improve productivity but also ensure safety and precision in electrical work. In this report, we’ll explore the most commonly used power tools by electricians, including the top brands and specific models available on the market.

1. Cordless Drills

Cordless drills are essential tools for electricians, allowing them to drill holes in walls, ceilings, and other surfaces to run wiring. These tools offer the advantage of mobility without the need for a power outlet.

• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt DCD771C2
    This model is known for its reliability and power, offering a high-speed transmission and 16 clutch settings, making it ideal for various drilling tasks.
• Brand: Makita
  • Model: Makita XFD131
    Featuring a brushless motor, this model is designed for efficiency and long battery life. It’s lightweight and compact, making it perfect for electricians who need to work in tight spaces.
• Brand: Milwaukee
  • Model: Milwaukee 2801-20 M18
    The Milwaukee 2801-20 M18 is a popular choice for its durability and the REDLITHIUM™ battery pack that provides extended run-time.

2. Impact Drivers

Impact drivers are used for driving screws and bolts quickly and with high torque, which is often needed in electrical installations.

• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt DCF887B
    This impact driver offers 3-speed settings and a compact design, making it ideal for a variety of fastening applications.
• Brand: Bosch
  • Model: Bosch GDR18V-1400B12
    Known for its power and precision, this model is equipped with a brushless motor and a 2-stage power control.
• Brand: Makita
  • Model: Makita XDT16Z
    The Makita XDT16Z is a top choice among professionals for its compact size, precision fastening control, and advanced features like the Quick-Shift Mode.

3. Wire Strippers

Wire strippers are specialized tools used to remove the insulation from electrical wires, allowing electricians to make proper connections.

• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools 11055
    This model is popular for its precision and comfort, offering stripping capabilities for 10-18 AWG solid and 12-20 AWG stranded wire.
• Brand: Irwin Vise-Grip
  • Model: Irwin Vise-Grip 2078300
    Known for its ergonomic design, this tool offers excellent leverage and an adjustable stopper to control the length of the core strip.
• Brand: Greenlee
  • Model: Greenlee 1955-SS
    The Greenlee 1955-SS is a heavy-duty wire stripper designed for both solid and stranded wire, featuring a spring-loaded handle for ease of use.

4. Multimeters

A multimeter is a crucial tool for electricians, used to measure voltage, current, and resistance in electrical circuits.

• Brand: Fluke
  • Model: Fluke 117
    The Fluke 117 is one of the most trusted multimeters for electricians, featuring VoltAlert™ technology for non-contact voltage detection and a compact, easy-to-use design.
• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools MM700
    This model offers a range of features including a backlit display, data hold function, and the ability to measure up to 1000V AC/DC voltage.
• Brand: Amprobe
  • Model: Amprobe AM-570
    The Amprobe AM-570 is designed for advanced electrical testing, providing accurate readings with features like a built-in flashlight and auto-ranging capability.

5. Conduit Benders

Conduit benders are used to bend electrical conduit pipes to fit the wiring route, ensuring a clean and professional installation.

• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools 56206
    This iron bender is designed for bending EMT conduit and includes markings for 10°, 22.5°, 30°, and 45° bends.
• Brand: Gardner Bender
  • Model: Gardner Bender 961
    The Gardner Bender 961 is an aluminum bender with precision-marked degree scales, known for its durability and ease of use.
• Brand: Greenlee
  • Model: Greenlee 840AH
    This model features a high-quality, durable construction designed for EMT conduit, with an ergonomic handle for better grip and control.

6. Cable Cutters

Cable cutters are essential for cutting through various types of electrical cables, ensuring clean cuts without damaging the inner conductors.

• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools 63050
    This heavy-duty cable cutter is designed to cut up to 4/0 aluminum and 2/0 copper cables, with precision-ground blades for a clean cut.
• Brand: Greenlee
  • Model: Greenlee 718
    Known for its durability, this ratcheting cable cutter can handle large cables with minimal effort and maximum control.
• Brand: Milwaukee
  • Model: Milwaukee 48-22-4010
    The Milwaukee 48-22-4010 is designed for cutting copper and aluminum cables, offering a comfortable grip and a robust cutting capacity.

7. Fish Tapes

Fish tapes are used to pull wires through conduits, a common task in electrical installations, particularly in commercial and industrial settings.

• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools 56059
    This model features a laser-etched marking every foot to measure conduit runs, and a durable steel construction for long-lasting performance.
• Brand: Greenlee
  • Model: Greenlee FTS438-100
    The Greenlee FTS438-100 is known for its flexibility and strength, designed to easily navigate through conduits with multiple bends.
• Brand: Southwire
  • Model: Southwire FTSP45-125NCT
    This non-conductive fish tape is ideal for working around live circuits, featuring a high-impact housing and a low-friction design.

8. Hole Saws

Hole saws are used to cut large-diameter holes in various materials like drywall, wood, and metal, making them essential for installing electrical fixtures.

• Brand: Milwaukee
  • Model: Milwaukee 49-22-4185
    This kit includes a range of hole saw sizes with bi-metal construction, designed for durability and fast cutting.
• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt D180002
    The DeWalt D180002 is a comprehensive hole saw kit with patented toothforms for longer life and a faster cut.
• Brand: Lenox Tools
  • Model: Lenox Tools 308042000G
    Known for its precision and durability, this hole saw features a bi-metal construction and a speed slot for easy plug removal.

9. Rotary Hammers

Rotary hammers are used for heavy-duty drilling tasks, such as creating holes in concrete and masonry for running conduit and installing electrical boxes.

• Brand: Bosch
  • Model: Bosch GBH2-28L
    This rotary hammer is known for its power and versatility, featuring vibration control and a powerful 8.5-amp motor.
• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt D25263K
    The DeWalt D25263K offers a combination of impact energy and speed, making it ideal for tough drilling tasks in concrete.
• Brand: Makita
  • Model: Makita HR2475
    The Makita HR2475 is a reliable choice for electricians, featuring a three-mode operation (rotation only, hammering with rotation, and hammering only) for versatile use.

10. Oscillating Multi-Tools

Oscillating multi-tools are versatile tools used for cutting, sanding, scraping, and grinding in tight spaces. They are invaluable for electricians when working on renovation or retrofit projects.

• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt DCS356B
    This model features a brushless motor and a dual-grip variable-speed trigger, allowing for precise control during detailed work.
• Brand: Bosch
  • Model: Bosch GOP40-30C
    The Bosch GOP40-30C offers a 3D tool accessory interface and a powerful motor for faster work and better performance in demanding tasks.
• Brand: Makita
  • Model: Makita XMT03Z
    Known for its durability and ergonomic design, this multi-tool provides up to 20,000 oscillations per minute, making it highly efficient for various applications.

11. Electricians’ Scissors

Electricians’ scissors are designed for cutting through electrical tape, stripping wire insulation, and other tasks that require precision cutting.

• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools 2100-7
    These scissors are crafted from high-carbon steel for long-lasting sharpness and durability, featuring a serrated blade for non-slip cutting.
• Brand: Southwire
  • Model: Southwire ESP-2

• Brand: Greenlee
  • Model: Greenlee 0652-20
    The Greenlee 0652-20 features a precise cutting edge and a comfortable grip, making it ideal for stripping insulation, cutting tape, and handling other electrical tasks with ease.

12. Laser Levels

Laser levels are crucial for ensuring that installations, such as electrical outlets and conduits, are perfectly aligned and leveled. These tools provide high accuracy and save time in layout and alignment tasks.

• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt DW088K
    The DeWalt DW088K is a popular cross-line laser level with self-leveling capabilities. It’s known for its bright laser and accuracy, making it a favorite among electricians.
• Brand: Bosch
  • Model: Bosch GLL 55
    The Bosch GLL 55 offers VisiMax technology for maximum visibility and a smart pendulum system that self-levels and indicates out-of-level conditions for precise measurements.
• Brand: Johnson Level & Tool
  • Model: Johnson Level & Tool 40-0921
    This rotary laser level provides 360-degree coverage with adjustable speed, making it suitable for large projects where precise leveling is essential.

13. Cable Testers

Cable testers are essential for verifying the integrity of electrical connections, ensuring that wires and cables are properly connected and functioning as intended.

• Brand: Fluke
  • Model: Fluke Networks CIQ-100
    This tester is designed for troubleshooting and qualifying Ethernet network cables, ensuring that installations meet the required performance standards.
• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools VDV501-826
    The Klein VDV501-826 is a comprehensive kit that tests voice, data, and video cabling. It’s equipped with advanced features like wire map testing and distance-to-fault measurement.
• Brand: Ideal Industries
  • Model: Ideal Industries 33-866
    This tester provides high accuracy and supports testing for coax, twisted pair, and other types of cables commonly used in electrical installations.

14. Heat Guns

Heat guns are used for various electrical applications, such as shrinking tubing, loosening fasteners, and bending plastic conduits.

• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt D26960K
    The DeWalt D26960K is a versatile heat gun with variable temperature control and a built-in overload protection system, ensuring durability and safety.
• Brand: Milwaukee
  • Model: Milwaukee 2688-20 M18
    This cordless heat gun is ideal for mobility on job sites, offering fast heating and high performance with the flexibility of a cordless design.
• Brand: Wagner Spraytech
  • Model: Wagner Spraytech HT1000
    The Wagner HT1000 is a durable, dual-temperature heat gun that’s easy to use and ideal for a variety of applications, including electrical work.

15. Cable Pullers

Cable pullers are used to pull electrical cables through conduits or trenches. These tools are essential for large-scale installations where pulling cables by hand would be impractical.

• Brand: Greenlee
  • Model: Greenlee 6805
    The Greenlee 6805 is a heavy-duty cable puller designed for high-capacity jobs, capable of pulling up to 8,000 pounds with precision and ease.
• Brand: Southwire
  • Model: Southwire AP10K
    The Southwire AP10K is a compact, portable cable puller with a 10,000-pound pulling capacity, making it suitable for a wide range of electrical installations.
• Brand: Gardner Bender
  • Model: Gardner Bender GPT-2300
    The Gardner Bender GPT-2300 offers a 2,300-pound pulling capacity, designed for smaller jobs where a compact and easy-to-use puller is needed.

16. Circuit Analyzers

Circuit analyzers are essential for troubleshooting electrical circuits, helping electricians identify issues such as open grounds, incorrect wiring, or faulty components.

• Brand: Fluke
  • Model: Fluke 117 Electrician’s Multimeter
    While primarily a multimeter, the Fluke 117 also serves as a circuit analyzer with features like non-contact voltage detection and integrated VoltAlert™ technology.
• Brand: Ideal Industries
  • Model: Ideal Industries 61-534
    This model is designed specifically for analyzing circuits, offering tests for ground continuity, correct wiring, and GFCI operation.
• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools RT250
    The Klein RT250 is a simple yet effective circuit analyzer that checks for wiring issues and verifies the proper function of electrical outlets.

17. Electricians’ Pliers

Pliers are one of the most versatile tools for electricians, used for gripping, cutting, bending, and twisting wires.

• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools D213-9NE
    These 9-inch high-leverage side-cutting pliers are designed for cutting hardened wire and other tough materials, featuring a durable design and comfortable grips.
• Brand: Channellock
  • Model: Channellock 369
    The Channellock 369 pliers are known for their precision and durability, offering long-lasting cutting edges and a comfortable handle design.
• Brand: Knipex
  • Model: Knipex 09 12 240
    The Knipex 09 12 240 are high-leverage combination pliers with a crimping function, ideal for both cutting and crimping tasks.

18. Reciprocating Saws

Reciprocating saws are powerful cutting tools used for demolition and rough cutting tasks, such as cutting through drywall, studs, and conduit.

• Brand: Milwaukee
  • Model: Milwaukee 2720-20 M18 Fuel
    This cordless reciprocating saw is renowned for its power and efficiency, featuring a brushless motor and a long-lasting battery.
• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt DCS367B
    The DeWalt DCS367B is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for cutting in tight spaces while still delivering impressive cutting power.
• Brand: Bosch
  • Model: Bosch RS428
    The Bosch RS428 is a corded reciprocating saw known for its durability and high cutting speed, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty tasks.

19. Stud Finders

Stud finders are essential for locating the framing studs behind walls, which is crucial for safely installing electrical boxes and running conduit.

• Brand: Franklin Sensors
  • Model: Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710
    This stud finder is praised for its accuracy and ability to detect multiple studs simultaneously, making it one of the most reliable models on the market.
• Brand: Zircon
  • Model: Zircon MultiScanner A250c
    The Zircon A250c not only detects studs but also locates live AC wires, offering added safety and versatility for electricians.
• Brand: DeWalt
  • Model: DeWalt DW0150
    The DeWalt DW0150 is known for its ease of use and accuracy, making it a go-to choice for professionals who need to locate studs quickly and accurately.

20. Insulated Screwdrivers

Insulated screwdrivers are specifically designed to protect electricians from electrical shocks when working with live circuits.

• Brand: Wiha
  • Model: Wiha 32092
    This set of insulated screwdrivers is rated for up to 1,000 volts, featuring ergonomic handles and precision tips for optimal performance.
• Brand: Klein Tools
  • Model: Klein Tools 33532-INS
    The Klein 33532-INS screwdriver set is crafted with a focus on safety and durability, offering protection against electrical shock and excellent grip.
• Brand: Wera
  • Model: Wera 05032056001
    The Wera 05032056001 features laser-etched tips for improved grip and a robust, insulated handle designed to withstand the rigors of daily use by electricians.

Conclusion

Electricians rely on a wide range of power tools to perform their jobs efficiently and safely. From drills and wire strippers to multimeters and insulated screwdrivers, each tool plays a crucial role in ensuring that electrical work is completed to a high standard. The brands and models mentioned in this report represent some of the best tools available, known for their quality, durability, and performance in the field. By investing in these reliable tools, electricians can enhance their productivity, safety, and the overall quality of their work.