This site is dedicated to the sharing of electrical knowledge.
A place for electrical professionals—including electricians, lineman, electrical engineers, electronics engineers, and control engineers—to help each other out.
Electrical Knowledge’s purpose is to collect, warehouse, and make freely available information sought by electrical professionals.
We cover a range of electrical theories and concepts including:
- Basic Electrical Engineering (like electrical slang used)
- Electrical Safety (such as information about surge protectors and HIPOT testing)
- Electrical Tools (including multimeters, insulated screwdrivers, insulation resistance testers, electrical circuit tracers, and tone generator and probe kits)
- Electrical Wiring (like how a non-contact voltage tester works)
- Electrical Symbols & Terminology (such as multimeter symbols)
- Electrical Components and Equipment (including junction boxes, coaxial cables, and feeder pillars)
- Electrical Formulas & Theory (such as a transformer sizing calculator)
We’d love to hear from you—no question is too basic. Please contact us if you would like to request a specific topic.
What is a Junction Box (Electrical Box)?
A junction box – also known as an ‘electrical box’, ‘jbox’, ‘or ‘terminal box’ – is a protective box where wires are interconnected. Junction boxes are often built into the…
What is a Feeder Pillar (Power Box)?
Imagine a feeder pillar as the unsung hero in your neighborhood, ensuring electricity flows safely to every home. This crucial cabinet, often seen but rarely noticed, orchestrates the distribution of…
How Does a Non Contact Voltage Tester Work?
What is a Non Contact Voltage Tester? Non-contact voltage testers (also known as voltage tester pens, test pens, or voltage sensors) are the safest way of ensuring that electrical conductors…
What is a Lineman (And How Much Do They Make)?
What is a Lineman (Lineworker)? A lineman (also known as a lineworker, linesman, powerline worker or powerline technician) is someone who installs and repairs cables or wires used in electrical…
Transformer Sizing Calculator (3 phase, kVA & Windings Calculations)
Transformer Calculation Formulas This free online transformer calculator allows you to calculate the full load current in the primary and secondary transformer windings. The inputs are the transformer kVA (power),…
How To Use And Read A Multimeter (Ohms, Voltage, Current)
What is a Multimeter? A multimeter, also known as a multitester or VOM (Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter), is an electronic measuring instrument used to measure various electrical parameters. Multitesters are a standard diagnostic…
How To Strip Electrical Wire (With & Without Tools)
While doing any kind of DIY electrical work, you’ll frequently find that you need to strip the insulation off of the wire you’re working with. Clean and accurate wire stripping…
What is an Alarm Auto Dialer?
An alarm dialer (or alarm dialler) is an electronic device that automatically triggers an alarm when a predefined condition is met. This alarm is accompanied by a specific action –…
What is a Surge Protector?
A surge protector – also known as a surge suppressor, spike suppressor, transient voltage surge suppressor (TVSS), or surge diverter – is the name given to a broad group of…
Electrician Terminology (Electrical Trade Slang Dictionary)
There are a bunch of electrical terms electricians use which… don’t seem to make any sense. And some of them sound like they were made by a sparky with a…
Best Electrician Tools List: Top 10 Electrical Tools of 2024
Today I’m going to show you the best tools used by electricians around the world. These tools are a must-have for electricians who don’t want to waste their time and…
Craftsman vs Kobalt Tool Chest: In-Depth 2024 Review
Investing in a mechanic’s tool chest is a significant financial decision, emphasizing the importance of choosing a durable option. Craftsman and Kobalt are top contenders in the toolset market, boasting…
How to Use a Toner to Trace a Wire
A test tone generator converts electrical signals into audible sounds, tailoring its output to suit various applications. This versatility makes it an essential tool in both music production and technical…
Craftsman 3482141 Multimeter Review
The Craftsman 3482141 Multimeter stands out as an essential tool for electricians. With its lightweight design, accurate diode testing, and sturdy construction, it meets the demands of both seasoned professionals…
Fluke 87V Digital Multimeter Review
Discover the Fluke 87V Digital Multimeter, your go-to for tackling the toughest electrical challenges. Engineered to absorb spikes up to 8,000 volts from industrial circuit faults, this tool doesn’t just…
Fluke 325 True RMS Clamp Meter Review
Plant maintenance engineers and electricians swear by the Fluke 325 for general and daily use. Since its AC and DC currents measure up to 400A, its testing quality is better…
Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter Review
For electricians, the right tools are non-negotiable. Enter the Fluke 17B+: a multimeter designed to meet your needs with precision and reliability. It covers essential measurements—frequency, duty cycle, and temperature—in…
Fluke 323 True RMS Clamp Meter Review
If you’re in the market for a reliable clamp meter that won’t break the bank, the Fluke 323 should be at the top of your list. Renowned for its precision…
Fluke 289 True RMS Multimeter Review
The difference between a good multimeter and a bad one is like night and day. Top-quality multimeters will instantly provide you with accurate readings, with a slick user interface that…
Fluke 1507 Insulation Resistance Tester Review
The Fluke 1507 stands out as a versatile resistance tester, catering to electricians across all skill levels. Its wide array of testing ranges ensures it’s a go-to tool for tasks…
Fluke 15b+ Digital Multimeter Review
Getting precise readings from a multimeter is crucial for any electrical task, and only a high-quality multimeter can guarantee that level of accuracy. To make it easier for our readers…
Fluke 1587 FC Insulation Tester Multimeter Review
Discover the Fluke 1587 Insulation Multimeter, the go-to tool for electricians. With Fluke 1587 alongside Fluke Connect, tackling common electrical issues has never been easier, thanks to wireless problem identification…
Best Motherboard With WiFi: Top 5 of 2024 Reviewed
You’re in the middle of your best game ever, sure to hit your personal best. Then, your computer hangs up as you watch your score takes a dive. Not cool….
Best Raspberry Pi Book: Top 5 Books of 2024 Reviewed
Are you a total newb who thinks Raspberry Pi is a wickedly good dessert? The concept is simple, but it’s not something you eat. The best Raspberry Pi books are…
Best DIY Drone Kit: Top 5 of 2024 Reviewed
Building a drone yourself can be a lot of fun, especially when the kit comes with everything you need to get started. The best drone kits are easy to assemble,…
Best Cordless Trimmer Blower Combo: Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed
A well-groomed garden is an ultimate goal for any suburban homeowner. Wouldn’t you like a cordless tool that makes garden work a pleasure? We surely do. A good cordless trimmer…
Best Electrician Books for Beginners: Top 7 of 2024
A good electrician’s book can easily be the difference between passing or failing an exam. Look for a book that has NEC tables, detailed information on wiring, and a reference…
Best Butane Torch: Top 8 of 2024 Reviewed
Whether you’re a dedicated jeweler or a passionate arsonist, you need a good butane torch. In case you are soldering earrings or making creme brulee, you should be able to…
Best Surge Protector for Garage Door Opener: Top 7 of 2024 Reviewed
Electrical surges can fry your garage door opener. This is pretty inconvenient if you were trying to get somewhere in a rush. Just like your other precious electronics, the garage…
Best Wire Strippers: The Top 8 Picks of 2024
Trying to use a pair of poorly-made wire strippers is a special kind of torture. Terrible wire strippers are a constant source of headaches. Having to re-strip wire is a…
Best Surge Protector for a Gaming PC: Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed
Spending over $5000 on a high-end gaming P.C. seems pointless if it blows up after the first electrical surge. A pricey PC needs a surge protector with high voltage protection,…
Best Wall Mounted Surge Protector: Top 3 of 2024 Reviewed
If you’re spending over $500 on fancy electronics, you should probably spend another $20 to make sure they don’t burst into flames after an electrical surge. The best surge protection…
Best Surge Protector for Air Conditioners: Top 7 of 2024 Reviewed
There is little more devastating than having your air conditioner unit fried in the middle of a hot summer. You can safeguard your precious HVAC unit by using a high-quality…
Best Single Outlet Surge Protector: Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed
A single outlet surge protector gets the job done without taking up too much space. The best single outlet surge protectors have a high Joule rating, are UL certified, and…
Best International Travel Surge Protector: Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed
If you’re traveling around the world, you’re going to be carrying some electronics with you. What if (god forbid) a power surge fries your gadgets? A minor frustration at home…
Best Butane Soldering Iron: Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed
What’s worse than a soldering tool that doesn’t have enough juice to finish the job? You’re left with a project that isn’t done, which is never satisfying. The best butane…
Best Electrical Fish Tape (Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed)
The best fish tape should be strong, easy to slide in and out, easy to carry, and have an impact resistant case. These are the main criteria we looked at…
Best Electrician Safety Glasses: Top 7 Picks of 2024
Picking the right set of safety glasses is crucial for proper eye protection. The vast majority of work accidents can be prevented through the proper use of protective equipment, and…
Best Electricians Hammer: Top 5 of 2024 Reviewed
A good electrician’s hammer is one you can use to reach into small spaces or across large gaps to pound in or rip out any kind of electrical fixtures. The…
Best Electricians Staple Gun: Top 7 of 2024 Reviewed
You’re just about done with the job, but you can’t get the last few staples in to call it quits. A poorly designed tool isn’t worth the hassle. A good…
Best Electricians Tool Backpack: Our Top 10 Picks of 2024
When you’re carrying a lot of heavy tools, having a good backpack can make work a lot easier. The best electricians backpack should be comfortable, have lots of pockets and…
Best Electricians Tool Belt (Our Top Picks of 2024)
A quality tool belt & bag gives you quick access to your tools without getting in the way. You want a tool belt that’s going to survive the hard yards…
Best Electricians Torque Wrench: Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed
Electricians, use a proper torque wrench; otherwise, your clients will be…shocked! You know how much it hertz to struggle with a bad tool, right? The best torque wrench for an…
Best Electricians Tool Box: Top 10 of 2024
Tools can be a huge investment, and you’ll want to take every measure to ensure that they remain safe and undamaged. It’s crucial that you have a safe and convenient…
Best Function Generator Kits: Top 5 of 2024 Reviewed
There’s no point throwing good money at a function generator kit that doesn’t have the functionality and features you need. The best function generator kits put accuracy and precision first….
Best Face Shield: The Top 8 Picks of 2024
If you’re doing a hazardous job, then you’ll want to make sure your face is well-protected. A face shield is the best way to get full-face protection without sacrificing visibility….
Best Headlamp for Work: Top 7 of 2024 Reviewed
If you sometimes work in wall cavities or other areas where there isn’t much light, then a headlamp (also known as a head torch) can make your workday a heck…
Best Fluke Multimeter: Top 10 of 2024 Reviewed
Carrying an armload of tools onto a job site only makes the work harder, especially if you realize you forgot something you needed. That’s what makes a multi-functional device like…
Best GFCI Outlet: Top 5 of 2024 (Outdoor & Indoor)
A good GFCI Outlet will help keep your home and outdoor area safe from any electrical nasties. No one has loved you quite like your refrigerator has. If there’s one…
Best Surge Protector for Washing Machine: Top 5 of 2024 Reviewed
Surge protectors are important to protect your washing machine from power surges and other overcurrent events. A good surge protector for a washing machine will provide over 800 joules of…
Best Cordless Soldering Iron: Top 6 of 2024 Reviewed
A good cordless soldering iron is an absolute pleasure to work with, especially if your projects require great maneuverability. The best cordless soldering irons have a long run time, adjustable…
Best Cordless Drill for Electricians: Top 6 of 2024
Your typical power drill works fine when working with softer surfaces like wood – but if you’re an electrician working with concrete or other hard materials, then you’re going to…
Best Diagonal Cutters: Top 8 of 2024
A good pair of diagonal cutters (also known as wire cutters) can slice through nails, screws and piano wire like soft butter. On the other hand, a poor-quality set of…
Best Deburring Tools (2024 Review)
Burrs are annoying. No matter how hard you strive for the perfect smooth edge – a burr here or there is bound to appear. That’s fine. But what’s not okay,…
Best Dual Fuel Generator: Top 7 of 2024
Dual fuel generators thrive during emergencies (i.e. shortage of gas, increased gas prices, etc). In fact, it allows you to use both propane and gasoline to continue giving you the…
Best Tape Measure for Electricians: Top 8 of 2024
We’ve all had to work with a bad tape measure before: a weak blade full of dirt, a tang that couldn’t hook onto a magnet, and a pull length that…
Best USB Wall Outlet: Top 5 of 2024
USB wall outlets can make charging your phone and other electronic devices a heck of a lot easier. Gone are the days where you’re searching around the house for your…
Best Tool Vest for Electricians: Top 8 of 2024
The best advice we can offer electricians for improving their productivity doesn’t come from the field. Look in the kitchen instead. All good chefs know to set up your workspace…
Best Wall Mounted Surge Protectors: Top 3 of 2024 Reviewed
Getting the right surge protector is crucial to protecting your electronic devices. There’s no point spending over $500 on fancy electronics just to have them break after your first power…
Best Wedding Ring for Electricians: Top 5 of 2024 (Non-Conductive)
Working as an electrician can be hard on your hands, but it shouldn’t be hard on your heart. Finding that special person that puts an extra spark in your life…
How to Read a Multimeter?
It’s a common misconception that all electricians need to be able to read an electrical meter. Fortunately, this is not the case. If you’re starting as an electrician aspirant or…
How Do Surge Protectors Work?
Having a surge protector installed is crucial for the safety of any electrical setup. Even while a power surge is sometimes thought to be the end of expensive devices and…
Hipot Test: What is it? (Standards & Test Procedure)
Hipot testers are essential for determining the insulating resistance and current carrying capacity of electronic devices. The device is put through its paces by passing a current through its insulation…
HVAC Safety Topics (And Safety Tips)
When it comes to the comfort of building occupants, the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry is important. Work-related injuries in this industry range from mild burns to fatalities….
How Does a Whole House Surge Protector Work?
What exactly does a whole-house surge protector do? If not, then educate yourself. Protect your home from dangerous power spikes and surges with a whole-house surge protector. All sorts of…
How To Join The IBEW Electrician Apprenticeship Program?
If you were searching for an answer to that question, you’ve found the ideal blog post. In this piece, we will discuss how to become an apprentice electrician with the…