I enjoy my job.  I find a deep satisfaction from building things.  I find great pleasure in making things work.  I love the end of a project, when you can walk around and see all that you have done.  I feel proud and excited for all the small things we do.

My hope is that you can find satisfaction in what you do.

JR

www.electricaltoolshed.com

SweatshirtStation, Sweatshirts.

• The first, and probably the most important tool, will be your tool pouch. The tool pouch will likely be worn throughout an entire day. This means that comfort and functionality are key. I am not suggesting spending a ton of money right out of the gate, but take it from me, an uncomfortable tool belt makes for a long day. A good beginner tool pouch would be the Klein 55210 a 10 pocket leather pouch with a belt. I would also suggest purchasing a few other items to make the belt complete. The Klein 5456 hammer holder and Klein 5197 Tape Rule Holder will keep your hammer and tape measure close at hand. Lastly you will need an extra pouch to put wire nuts or staples in. I suggest the Klein 5145 Utility Pouch.
• The second tool I would suggest is a good pair of long-nose pliers. Long-nose pliers are extremely versatile. They can be used to: Break box tabs, pull wire through a tight-corner, cut wire, form wire loops, and get in tight spaces. A good beginner pair of long-nose pliers would be the Klein D203-8.
• Next you will need a Lineman’s Tool. These are your go to pliers for cutting larger groups of wires, twisting wires together for good connections, and crimping. There are many different styles and types out there, but a good basic choice would be the Klein D213-9NETP. This particular model has an added fish tape grip to assist with hard pulls.
• No electrician’s tool belt would be complete without a set of Diagonal Cutting Pliers. These particular pliers are used for cutting things in tight spaces. And there are a lot of tight spaces within a homes walls. They are designed with superior cutting power. Making them great for cutting nails, screws, and wires flush. The Klein D248-8 will get the job done. This model has an angled head which helps to get into those tight spots.
• Your next purchase will have to be a few different types of screwdrivers. Screwdrivers come in many different options, here are the most important when considering electrical work: The Klein 603-3 and the Klein 603-4 are a #1 and #2 Phillips tip screwdriver. The Klein 605-4 and the Klein 605-6 are both flat tip screwdrivers. And finally, the Klein 670-6, this screwdriver is probably the coolest screwdriver you will ever use. It is from Klein’s rapi-drive family of screwdrivers. It offers a crank-action handle that spins screws fast. It will save you time and effort when installing outlet and switch plates.
• The Klein 11045 wire strippers/cutters are a good choice for your wire stripping needs. They strip 10-18 gauge solid wire and offer wire looping holes.
• The last few tools that will be needed are: A good utility knife, (the Klein 44100 will work fine). A hammer, (the Klein 807-18 offers a straight claw and a good rubber grip). A tape measure, (the Klein 928-25HV is a good choice). And finally, a good pair of safety glasses. I would recommend Klein 60053 seeing as they are comfortable and offer good eye coverage.

Remember that a good set of tools can last a lifetime, and help you achieve the superior results expected of true professionals. I use Klein tools and would highly recommend them to an aspiring electrician or conscientious homeowner.

Joseph Macdonald is one of the founders of Electrical Toolshed, a supplier of Klein Tool Pouches-Belts and Klein Strippers/Cutters & Crimpers. Visit us at http://www.electricaltoolshed.com

What are some of the advantages of using an infrared thermometer?

• It is fast (in the millisecond range). An infrared thermometer gives you a nearly instant reading. Conventional thermometers are typically slower at measuring an objects actual temperature. This allows a user to gather more data, faster.
• It captures temperatures of moving parts. Allowing users to accurately monitor equipment and systems while they are in operation.
• Measurements can be taken on potentially hazardous or physically inaccessible objects.
• Allows the measurements of high temperatures (greater than 1300 degree celsius). In such applications contact thermometers cannot be used and have a substantially limited lifespan.
• There is no interference or energy loss. They allow poor heat conductors such as plastic or wood to be measured accurately.

 
There are many varieties. Some are listed below are some that are available:

• Mini Thermometers – These are pocket-sized units that are perfect for technicians to gather a quick reading. This type of thermometer is typically in-expensive, but limited in its capabilities. Many HVAC(heating,ventilation, and air conditioning) technicians find this type useful.
• Stick Style Thermometers – This type of thermometer would be classified as a mid-range thermometer. Basic models in this mid-level price range have an innumerable amount of applications. Just a few of these are: food preparation, fire safety, HVAC, electrical, and refrigeration.
• Gun Style Thermometers – A gun style infrared thermometer can range from a basic model to an advanced model. The most advanced being a Data Logging High Range 50:1 Infrared Thermometer. This style of gun is probably the most recognizable. It has a pin-point accuracy that sets it apart from some of the basic, lesser quality models of thermometer. This style is often used in industrial capacities.

 
In the past, infrared thermometers have generally been too expensive for the basic technician to own. But with the recent advancements in technology, the costs have fallen dramatically. Allowing many to add this useful tool to their arsenal. If you are in the market for an infrared thermometer, understand your needs and be aware of what you are buying.