One of us is a rather accomplished electrician having done everything from installing an electrical outlet to changing the main electrical service to a home. On the other hand, the other brother is handier with a paintbrush than a pair of wire cutters.
Case in point: Some years ago, the "electrically-challenged" brother was asked by his wife to replace a light fixture mounted on the ceiling with a new decorative paddle fanlight. This required removal of the existing light fixture to expose the electrical wires that would be connected to the new fixture.
Having been shocked in the past, the unidentified Carey brother made sure that the light switch was off, and assumed that there was no power at the light fixture. Then, while perched on a sturdy ladder and armed with a screwdriver, he proceeded to remove the existing light fixture. What he soon discovered is well remembered by him to this day: Because a light switch is turned off doesn't mean that the wires are not "hot."
As the voltage traveled through his body like a bolt of lightning, the screwdriver was ejected from his hand like a bullet being fired from a gun. It landed on the other side of the room.
What he didn't realize is that the source of power for a light fixture can be located at the switch or at the fixture itself. The moral: always make certain that the power is really off before attempting to work on the electrical system in your home.
One of the easiest means of determining if an outlet or wires to a light fixture are "hot" is to use a voltage tester. This pencil-sized device consists of two wires with metal terminals at the ends, along with an indicator light at the other end. When the terminals are inserted into an outlet or touched against the "hot" and "neutral" wires of a plug or switch, the light will illuminate when there is power.
Never attempt to perform any type of electrical work without first making certain that the power is off by flipping a breaker or removing a fuse at a subpanel or main service.
With proper tools and instructions, most do-it-yourselfers are qualified to perform minor electrical tasks around the house such as replacing a light fixture, installing a dimmer switch or even adding an outlet.
Aside from having a few good tools, there are a couple of other steps that should first be taken before attempting a home electrical project. Start by investing in a good "how-to" book that will explain, in detail (with illustrations), how to perform a specific task. Read and understand the material prior to beginning your work.
Always check with your local building department to determine if there are any special local codes that must be followed and/or if a permit is required.
Aside from the sense of accomplishment that follows a job well done, there is nothing more satisfying to a do-it-yourselfer than buying tools, whether hand or power.
Having the right tools can make a great difference in the ease, safety and professionalism of a project. Tools aren't an expense, they're an investment. We believe that when tool shopping, it's always better to spend a bit more to get better quality. They will work better and last longer. We still use some of the hand tools that our dad acquired decades ago.
Some of the basic electrical tools needed include a couple of screwdrivers (Phillips and flat blade). Models with a rubber ergonomically designed grip are the best. There are three types of "pliar-type" tools needed for most electrical projects - a wire stripper, lineman's pliers and a pair of needle-nose pliers.
The wire stripper is used to remove the insulative casing that surrounds the wire. Good strippers are adjustable to accommodate various sizes (gauges) of wire. Some wire strippers are a combination tool serving also as a crimper.
Needle-nose pliers are a must for any home electrician. You will find them invaluable for creating a loop at the end of a wire that will then fit neatly around a screw. They are also good for maneuvering wires within an electrical box. We often feel like surgeons when armed with a pair of needle-nose pliers.
Lineman's pliers are used for splicing and bending wires, especially heavy-gauge.
Be sure that all of your hand tools have an insulative coating at the grip for added safety and comfort.
When you will be pulling wires through walls or conduit, a "fish tape" is a must. This handy device consists of a continuous roll (typically 50' to 100') of flat metal wire about the width of a screwdriver blade, with a loop at the end. The wire is coiled into a neat case much like a retractable tape measure.
It is inserted into a conduit, wires are attached to the loop at the end and then the wires are pulled through the conduit with the fish tape. Often, a special lubricant is used to make the take easier and to prevent damage to the wire.
Never attempt to take on an electrical project that you don't feel completely confident in performing. The best tool you can pick up in this circumstance is a telephone to contact a qualified electrician.
