Be prepared to invest in some tools specifically used for testing electrical power.
While you should use all tools with caution, this is doubly important when using tools to repair electrical appliances. Ensure your safe use of electrical tools by shutting off the power supply to anything you are attempting to repair. Always use tools with plastic or rubber handles when working with electricity. You can use some items in your home toolbox with electrical components, but you may also have to invest in electrical system testing equipment. Does this Spark an idea?
Pliers
Needle-nose, lineman's and side-cutting pliers should be part of your electrical repair kit.
Two types of pliers will come in very handy for working with wiring. Both needle-nose pliers and the type known as lineman's pliers are used for bending wires into the loops that will be required for some of the electrical repair you plan to do. If you will be working in cramped or awkward spaces, consider adding a pair of side-cutting pliers to ease your burden.
Neon Circuit Tester
A neon circuit tester lets you safely determine whether or not an electrical wall outlet is providing power. When the probes of a neon circuit tester touch a hot circuit, a light will come on as an indication. Additionally, you can use neon circuit testers to test for the presence of electricity in overhead light fixtures and outlet boxes as well as wall outlets.
Multi-tester
The multi-tester is a battery-operated unit that measures the resistance in the electrical circuit. As the name indicates, this tool serves other useful purposes like measuring the voltage of both alternating and direct currents. A multi-tester is also useful for owners of older houses to test fuses, according to Mike McClintock in "Creative Homeowner's Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement."
Combination Tool
The combination tool can be useful in a number of ways.
Use a combination tool when doing electrical repairs to clamp wire in an appropriate-sized gauge when attaching wires. The cutting element of the combination tool is useful for trimming wires.
Wire Strippers
Wire strippers are good for removing insulation without damaging the actual electrical wire. A wire stripper can also be called into action when wire must be crimped or bent. Using wire strippers properly will result in cleaner contact points, which provides a more efficient connection.
Receptacle Tester
A receptacle tester is another special item for use in electrical repairs. This tool lets you know if your outlets are properly and correctly wired for use. The tool will signal you with an indication of a problem if the receptacle is not properly wired.
Screwdrivers
A screwdriver is one of your most useful tools when doing repair work. Screwdrivers are used for removing outlet boxes and the covering off wall plugs. A special type of this tool called a "wire-bending" screwdriver can also help by bending and looping connecting wires.
Tags: combination tool, combination tool useful, electrical repair, electrical repairs, neon circuit, outlet boxes
