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From Pliers to Multimeters: An Overview of the Most Important Tools for Electricians

As an electrician, it is essential to have the right tools at hand. But which ones are really necessary and which ones can be skipped? In our guide on how to choose the right tools for electricians, we show you the most important tools that should not be missing from any electrician's tool kit. From the right screwdriver to the use of special tools - we give valuable tips and tricks for the selection of the right electrician tool.

Posted by Roberto Bellandi | | 9 min read

Electrician tool #1: Insulated VDE screwdriver

Screwdrivers are one of the classic tools and are still an important hand tool for electricians. This is because they often need access to enclosures that are secured with screw caps.

For electricians, insulated VDE screwdrivers are particularly relevant, as they prevent electric shocks compared to conventional screwdrivers. Such electricians’ screwdrivers have double safety insulation and are often certified by the VDE test mark or feature 1000V insulation. This reduces the risk of electric shock from electrical conductors touching the screwdriver.

To meet the requirements of different types of screws, screwdrivers come in numerous sizes and shapes. Among these, the most popular tip types are slotted, Phillips, Philips (PH) and Pozidriv (PZ).

Therefore, when buying a toolbox, be sure to look for the included insulated VDE screwdriver – so that you are prepared for all eventualities!

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Electrician tool #2: Insulated VDE pliers

Different Pliers with VDE insulation

Insulated pliers also reduce the risk of electric shock by preventing contact with conductive parts. Depending on the task, different types of insulated pliers may be required. There are different sizes and shapes, as well as different materials suitable for different applications. The most commonly used pliers are flat nose pliers, combination pliers, crimping pliers, side cutters and cable cutters.

Insulated pliers are also useful when handling printed circuit boards or other sensitive surfaces. Their insulated coating protects them from damaging the material by preventing metal particles or the like from entering. Sensitive components can also be handled particularly gently with insulated tools.

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Electrician tool #3: Insulating tape

Guide Electrician Tool Kit Insulating tape

Insulating tape is one of the most useful tools for electricians, as it allows them to safely and effectively insulate wires, cables and other conductive components.

Insulating tape is made from an insulating material such as vinyl or rubber and is available in a variety of colors and widths. It can be used to bundle cables, secure connections or cover damaged insulation.

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Electrician tool #4: Cable cutter

Cable cutter is an essential tool for electricians.

Cable cutters are important little helpers for cutting cables precisely and safely. Without a cable cutter, cutting cables would become a tedious and time-consuming task.

But not only the cutting of cables is facilitated by the use of a cable cutter. Stripping cables also becomes child’s play with these practical tools. It is especially important that the cable cutter has a sharp blade to guarantee clean cuts even with thicker cables. For the right choice of cable cutter, the cutting performance should be matched with the material to be processed.

Another advantage of the cable cutter is its handiness. Due to its compact size, it fits easily into any tool bag and can therefore always be at hand. Ergonomic handles ensure easy handling.

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Electrician tool #5: Safety knife

Safety knives for electricians

A safety knife is an essential addition to any electrician’s toolbox.

A safety knife features a special blade that only extends under pressure and, on some models, retracts immediately after the cut is made. This prevents the blade from staying extended and posing a hazard. Even if the knife should accidentally fall or you step on it yourself, there is no danger due to the built-in guard.

Safety knives are often used to cut plastic and PVC channels or to remove screws and other solid objects. If the blade is ever worn out, they can be easily shortened and thereby re-sharpened.

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Electrician tool #6: Stripping tools

Wire stripping tools

As an electrician, you depend on high-quality and reliable tools. Stripping tools are among the most important items in this regard. These tools are used to cleanly and accurately remove insulation from cables to access the wires underneath. With stripping tools, electricians can work quickly and efficiently without damaging the delicate cables or wires.

There are different styles of stripping tools, such as wire strippers, wire stripping guns, semi-automatic wire strippers, and many more. It is worth investing in high-quality tools, as they are more durable and allow for more precise work. Even with frequent use, high-quality tools do not show signs of fatigue.

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Electrician tool #7: Crimping tool

Crimping tools for connecting leads.

A crimping tool can be used to securely and permanently connect electrical leads by crimping the ends of the wires together. The result is a reliable connection between cables and plugs, for example, that will not become loose even under high loads and vibrations.

A high-quality crimping tool is characterized by precise workmanship. It sits well in the hand and allows you to work easily and quickly. A suitable selection of attachments for different cable diameters rounds off the range.

If you do not use a crimping tool, you risk unclean connections or even short circuits. In the worst case, this can lead to fires.

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Electrician tool #8: Voltage tester

A voltage tester is an essential tool for any electrician. It is the key to safely diagnosing and troubleshooting electrical systems. Testing for absence of voltage is one of five important safety rules for electricians.

By using the bipolar voltage tester, electricians can identify the cause of faults based on the measured voltage. Voltage testers can also help with everyday tasks in the trade, such as installing new equipment or checking existing equipment for proper operation and performance. In addition, they can also be helpful when examining transformers and other electrical components – which is especially useful in times of constant innovation.

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Electrician’s tool #9: Multimeter

Multimeter by Fluke

Multimeters are versatile measuring devices that measure various electrical quantities such as voltage, current and resistance and quickly find faults in electrical circuits.

A multimeter also makes it easier to work on complex systems and provides a safe working environment. It can help minimize potential hazards such as electric shocks or short circuits. Another advantage of the multimeter is its compact design. The device can be easily transported from place to place and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

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Electrician’s tool #10: Hammer, spirit level and folding ruler: Other useful helpers

Hammer, folding rule and spirit level

A hammer is essential when installing electrical components. By hammering in nails or screws, wires can be securely fastened. In addition, an electrician’s hammer is also great for removing old components. When choosing a hammer, consider impact resistance, a strong head-to-handle connection, and the material itself.

The spirit level is a universal measuring and adjusting tool for use in the electrical industry. It can be used to check the horizontal and vertical alignment of switches, sockets and other components. This allows installations to be precisely aligned and prevents cables from getting in the way or snapping off at other parts. The important thing here is that the spirit level should be as light as possible.

The folding rule is also part of an electrician’s basic equipment and is useful for measuring distances between multiple wiring connections or other components. This tool can also be used to pre-determine the length of wires for connectors or switches. To ensure that the folding rule can be used for as long as possible, it should be made of plastics such as fiberglass. This will also protect it from damage caused by moisture or chemicals.

Because of their versatility, no electrician’s toolbox should be without a hammer, spirit level and folding rule. They allow the user not only to perform his tasks efficiently, but also to deliver precise results.

VDE or 1000V insulation – Choosing the right insulation is crucial for safety

Protection against electrical accidents is one of the most important tasks when installing electrical systems and working on electrical equipment and electrical installations. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the right insulation when choosing tools.

VDE test seal: guarantee for safe electrician tools

To ensure that a tool is 100% safe in terms of voltage protection, there is the VDE test seal. This is awarded by the German Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (VDE) and is internationally recognized.

In order to receive the VDE test seal, tools must undergo an elaborate procedure under strict conditions by the VDE testing and certification institute. Insulated electricians’ tools even undergo a strict safety procedure in accordance with IEC.

Anyone who chooses tools with the VDE test seal can be sure that they meet the highest quality and safety standards. The VDE test seal is thus a guarantee for the safe use of electricians’ tools and an important guide when selecting the right tool set.

1000V insulation

1000V insulation protects against high voltage peaks in particular and therefore works more efficiently than other insulation materials. Tools with 1000V insulation are made of specially insulated material capable of withstanding 1000 volts of electrical voltage. Attention should be paid to verify that all parts of the tool – including the handles – meet the same standards. In addition, it should be verified that the tool is properly marked and labeled to ensure its approval as an effective insulation material.

Deciding whether to use VDE or 1000V insulation? It’s best to first check the specific requirements of the application and electrical systems and compare them to the relevant standards. This is the only way to ensure that your installation is optimally protected and that all applicable standards are met.

Our tip

The advantages of ergonomic tools

Ergonomic tools not only provide more comfort during the activity, but often also more efficiency. Specially ergonomically designed tools help transfer power from the hand to the workpiece more quickly and reduce stress on tendons and joints during use.

In addition to an ergonomically designed handle, e-screwdrivers can also simplify work. This takes over the screwing process completely and avoids continuous turning of the wrist. The manufacturer Wiha specializes in ergonomic tools and is the only manufacturer to have certification. We have summarized further information for you in the magazine article Health at Work.

Posted by Roberto Bellandi, Roberto Bellandi is one of the product managers at Bürklin Elektronik. He is responsible for measurement technology, tools and workshop supplies, soldering technology, enclosures as well as chemical products. Roberto joined Bürklin Elektronik in 2017 and has over 25 years of experience as a product manager in the electronics industry. Previously, he worked for various electronics distributors. He is an expert in his fields and is interested in all topics related to renewable energies.