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Gear to keep on hand for electrical safety
None of this replaces an electrician. It is the small kit that lets you test what the handbook tells you to test, and tell a real problem from a tripped breaker.
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Klein Tools RT210 GFCI outlet tester
A plug-in tester like the Klein Tools RT210 makes the monthly GFCI check take seconds. The handbook says to test GFCI outlets every month and after storms. This plugs in and shows you with three lights whether an outlet is wired correctly, and it has a button that trips a GFCI.
What to look for: If the lights show an open ground or reversed wires, don't use that outlet for anything important. Call an electrician.
Klein Tools NCVT-3P non-contact voltage tester
A non-contact voltage pen such as the Klein Tools NCVT-3P is a basic safety check before you open anything. Before you touch a wire or take a cover off, a voltage pen tells you whether it is live. It beeps when it is near voltage and does not touch the metal.
What to look for: Test it on an outlet you know is live before you trust it on one you think is off. If you are not sure, stop and call a pro.
Kidde smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, AA battery
When it is time to swap one out, a combination alarm like the Kidde smoke and carbon monoxide alarm covers both. The handbook says to test your smoke and CO alarms on a schedule. If one is more than ten years old or keeps chirping, replace it instead of nursing it along.
What to look for: Check the date on the back of your current alarms. The manufacture date is printed there, and the alarm should be replaced about ten years after it.
Energizer PRO-360 LED headlamp
At the breaker panel, a headlamp like the Energizer PRO-360 helps you read the labels. Breaker panels are usually in a dark garage or basement corner. A headlamp lets you read the labels and hold a phone at the same time.
What to look for: Never stand in water to reach a panel. If the floor is wet, stay out and call an electrician.
Found a problem? Find an electrician near you.
Smoke and CO alarms and thermostats show up on the HVAC gear list too.
Garage door openers run on household power, so the garage door gear list is worth a look.
This list goes with The Electricians Handbook, and you can get the free Electricians Handbook on our electrical directory page. Items and availability change, so check the Amazon page before you buy. Affiliate disclosure.