TOP 10 SPECIALTY ELECTRICAL TOOLS! Uncommon Tools for Electricians

Key Takeaways

• Discover unique electrician tools that enhance efficiency.
• Learn about the ET310 Breaker Finder's practical applications.
• Explore innovative solutions for everyday electrical tasks.

Top 10 Specialty Electrician Tools

1. Klein Tools ET310 Breaker Finder and Outlet Tester
   A critical tool for service calls, this device helps identify the breaker controlling a specific outlet. It ensures minimal disruption for customers working from home by alerting them if important devices will be affected by power cuts. Use the transmitter in the desired receptacle, then hover the receiver over panel breakers to find the correct one through a red light and solid beep. It’s important to verify against all breakers to ensure accuracy, especially in older homes.
   
   
2. Klein Tools K1412 NMB Sheathing Stripper
   These strippers greatly improve efficiency when cutting and wiring panels. They are designed to strip the outer sheathing of 14/2 and 12/2 NMB cables without damaging conductor insulation. This method provides a clean, straight edge and reduces the need for riskier utility knife techniques, which can cause damage and lead to safety issues.
   
   
3. Lowe's Project Source Chandelier Chain Spreader
   Affordable and practical, this tool simplifies the process of adding or removing links from chandelier chains. It reduces damage to painted surfaces for a cleaner finish. Its design enables one-handed operation, which is particularly beneficial when balancing on a ladder while installing a fixture.
   
   
4. Temporary Dedicated Circuit Outlet
   Although appearing makeshift, this tool offers a pragmatic solution for accessing power near installation sites. It involves a box-mounted standard duplex outlet connected to 12/2 Romex, temporarily wired into panels. Only experienced electricians should use this due to safety considerations.
   
   
5. Bosch RH540M SDS Max Hammer Drill and Ground Rod Driver Bit
   This versatile and powerful tool helps set ground rods quickly and efficiently. The hammer drill's SDS Max bit is ideal for driving large rods into the earth, saving time and effort on more demanding installations.
   
   

Klein Tools ET310 Breaker Finder and Outlet Tester

The Klein Tools ET310 Breaker Finder and Outlet Tester is an essential tool for service electricians. It simplifies the process of identifying breakers feeding specific receptacles, which is crucial during service calls. By using this tool, you can effortlessly find the right breaker to switch off, minimizing disruptions to customers during the workweek, especially when they need to keep their devices running smoothly.

Here's how it works: plug the transmitter into the desired receptacle, then use the receiver at the main panel. Hover the receiver over the breakers. When it's over the correct breaker, the light will flash red, and the beep will go solid. This confirms which breaker requires turning off.

Be mindful, though; older homes or those with unprofessional wiring might cause signals to appear on multiple breakers. Ensure accuracy by holding the wand over all breakers, even if one already beeps. A useful trick: remove the panel cover and hold the wand near the wire on the load side for a stronger signal.

In summary, the ET310 is a common yet invaluable tool that not only aids in efficient troubleshooting but also enhances customer experience during electrical work.

Klein Tools K1412 NMB Sheathing Stripper

The Klein Tools K1412 NMB Sheathing Stripper is an essential tool for electricians working with 14/2 and 12/2 NMB (also known as Romex) cables. Unlike ordinary wire strippers, this tool features specially sized openings to efficiently strip the outer sheathing without damaging the conductor insulation inside. This results in clean, straight edges on the cable, ensuring that the wires remain intact and fully functional.

Key Features:

• Purpose-Specific Design: Designed specifically for 14/2 and 12/2 NMB cables, which are the most common wire types in American homes.
• Efficient Stripping: Allows for quick and clean stripping, making it an excellent choice when wiring panels.
• Protection for Conductors: Unlike using a utility knife, the Klein Tools K1412 prevents potential damage to the conductor insulation.

Using this tool provides a high-quality finish and saves time, particularly when working on multiple pieces of cable. It's a preferable alternative to the traditional method of scoring and peeling with a knife, which can risk damaging the internal components. The Klein Tools K1412 helps in maintaining safety and efficiency, minimizing the occurrence of service calls due to issues like arcing caused by damaged insulation. This makes it a valuable tool in an electrician’s toolbox, especially when working under inspection or high-volume tasks.

Lowes Project Source Brand Chandelier Chain Spreader

The Lowes Project Source brand chandelier chain spreader is a straightforward yet effective tool, especially when working with chandelier chains. Its utility lies in its simplicity—you insert the end into a chain link to open or remove links as needed. When finished, the link is closed by placing it inside the handles and squeezing them together.

This tool is favored for its ability to minimize paint damage on the chandelier chains, which is essential for maintaining a clean aesthetic. Alternatives, like using two pairs of pliers or screwdrivers, can cause more visible damage and are less efficient, particularly when balancing on a ladder while holding a fixture.

Despite its low cost, the tool's build quality can be lacking, as indicated by its ability to lose parts like handles. Yet, with minimal adjustments—such as adding a scrap of wire for storage—these tools prove to be exceptionally handy for this specialized task.

Temporary Dedicated Circuit Outlet

This tool might appear rudimentary, but it's immensely useful. The setup consists of a standard duplex outlet wired to a piece of 12/2 NM cable. It's housed in a box with a cover to ensure some level of safety. You can quickly create a temporary dedicated circuit by connecting it to a suitable 20 amp breaker, grounding it to the neutral bar, and wiring the hot wire.

This temporary outlet is perfect for charging batteries, operating corded tools, or testing appliances when no nearby receptacle is available. Remember, this is strictly for temporary use on job sites and should never be left behind when you finish. Importantly, this setup is not to code for permanent installations and should only be used by experienced electricians.

Bosch RH540M SDS Max Hammer Drill and Ground Rod Driver Bit

The Bosch RH540M SDS Max Hammer Drill is a sturdy tool that you'll find invaluable for heavy-duty tasks. With its durable construction, it hasn't shown much wear yet, but its performance is consistently reliable. A key feature is the SDS Max ground rod driver bit, specifically designed to facilitate the installation of ground rods with minimal effort. This bit is particularly beneficial for tasks that require precision and strength.

Key Features

• Powerful Performance: Provides robust drilling capabilities, making it suitable for tough materials.
  
• SDS Max Compatibility: The ground rod driver bit fits seamlessly, allowing quick bit changes without the need for additional tools.
  
• Applications: Ideal for electricians who often need to install ground rods efficiently.
  

Specifications

Using this tool, you can expect increased efficiency and a high level of precision when dealing with challenging drilling tasks. Whether it's for new installations or replacements, the Bosch RH540M with its ground rod driver bit will ensure you're well-equipped for the job.