As you work with different companies and in various locations, you'll have to use a range of power tools by several manufacturers. You'll soon form an opinion about them, and you'll be able to tell the difference between an excellent tool and a mediocre one.
Most electricians have a favorite brand, which they stick to for most of their career. But if you're just starting out, you might need to try out different brands to figure out which one works for you.
Makita tools are very comfortable and easy to use, so they are a favorite with electricians around the country. The Japanese brand produces highly reliable equipment that can be used for years or decades. What's more, they have recently introduced a two-battery system, so your tools can be powered without any special batteries.
Milwaukee is an American brand that has been around since 1924. They are best known for their innovative designs that are specifically made for people who work in customers' homes and businesses.
One of the main advantages of Milwaukee tools is that they charge very quickly, so you don't have to stop working to wait for your saw, drill, or multitool. Additionally, there is a lot of variety, so if you're looking for something specialized, Milwaukee is the way to go.
Hilti is a company from Liechtenstein, and it has been in operation for over 80 years. Although it is less well-known than some of the bigger brands on this list, some of its tools are unbeatable.
Because many newly constructed buildings are made out of concrete, electricians now need to buy a rotary hammer drill. One of the best options out there is the Hilti corded hammer drill, which is precise and lightweight.
Bosch is a German brand, and it has been on the market for well over 100 years. The tools are known for their high quality and durability, and they are reasonably affordable, especially when you consider that most of them are manufactured in Europe.
A particularly useful tool is the Bosch PS31, which is a compact drill that simplifies many electrical installations and prevents shoulder problems due to its small size and light weight.
In addition to powered tools, you'll also need to get some hand tools, which are manufactured by different companies. The most important pieces of equipment for electricians include screwdrivers, pliers, wire cutters, cable strippers, wrenches, and a utility knife. Unlike power tools, these items are likely to last you for your entire career, so it's important to choose an excellent brand from the start.
Wera mainly produces very specialized tools, which are only used on rare occasions. As a professional electrician, you might need to purchase some of them, for example, screwdrivers for specific types of installations. The tools appear very professional, and they are comfortable to hold.
In addition to specialized tools, Wera also manufactures its Kraftform series. If you're brand-new to the business and looking for a good set of tools, the Kraftform Kompakt Selection could be a good starting point.
This is one of the most trusted brands because the tools are very durable, even when they are used constantly. Many electricians also appreciate the ergonomic design, which keeps their hands from becoming callused and painful and prevents repetitive strain injuries. Knipex tools are often considered the gold standard, but they are quite expensive, especially for people who are just starting out.
Klein is the primary hand tool brand in the United States. This manufacturer has been around for over 60 years, and they produce a wide range of pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and other tools. They are also more expensive than some of the lesser-known brands, but they are well worth it for their durability and great quality.
Setting up your own electrician business can be expensive. By the time you're ready to start your company, it's likely that you already have some of your own tools, but you might still need to buy additional items. To lower the cost of buying everything you need, consider purchasing only the most essential and delicate tools new. Everything else can be acquired used at a lower price, for example from an electrician who is retiring or changing jobs.
You can also reduce your initial expenses by buying a used van or truck. Cars that have been driven for two to four years are often still in excellent condition, but they have depreciated enough to lose a large part of their value. This makes them excellent for new electricians.
Getting all your equipment sorted out is a great first step, but it might not be enough to succeed as an electrician. If you want to attract a lot of customers, build up a reputation as a reliable tradesperson, and manage your employees effectively, you'll also need to get home service software. A good program can help you manage your schedule and allow you and your staff to make real-time updates throughout the day.
What's more, software lets you save all your customers' personal data and information about past interactions on the platform. That way, every employee who interacts with your customers can review their files and offer them a personalized service. A good program will also help you manage your marketing efforts such as your website and your social media accounts.
Purchasing the right tools is crucial for electricians, especially since a lot of the equipment lasts for decades or even a lifetime. But in addition to good electrician tools, you'll also need home service software, which allows you to speed up and facilitate your company's operations. Give us a call at ServiceBox to learn more about our program and to start your free demo.
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Our customers love the affordability and flexibility of our software. ServiceBox is priced to ensure you see a return on your investment. We have pricing options that align with your needs; whether you’re a one-person service business or manage a large team in the field.