A domestic electrician is a tradesperson who specialises in installing, maintaining and repairing electrical systems in private homes. Their responsibilities range from replacing old light fittings, sockets, and switches to rewiring houses and performing compliance inspections. They also help install home automation systems, whole-house surge protection, and backup generators.
What Are Domestic Electricians?
Typically, residential electricians work in homes, but they can also be employed by commercial visit this page and industrial firms. Their duties may include installing wiring in data centres, offices, restaurants, schools, and farms. They can also provide services like lighting design and renewable energy installation.
How to Become a Domestic Electrician
One of the most common routes to becoming a domestic electrician is through an apprenticeship or through a domestic installer course. These courses are designed to teach the basic skills and qualifications required for an entry-level electrician role. They generally cover lessons about the latest 18th edition wiring regulations, electrical installation tasks, Part-P regulations, and inspection/testing.
The main purpose of a domestic installer qualification is to allow you to sign off your own notifiable work, which will give you the freedom to do your work without having to go through your local authority to get it signed off first. This will save you the time and cost associated with obtaining your CPS membership and going through the building control process.
What Are the Differences Between a Domestic and Commercial Electrician?
When it comes to the training needed for these roles, there are some key differences. For example, while domestic electricians typically start by gaining their qualifications through apprenticeships or domestic installer courses, commercial electricians begin their careers with more advanced qualifications and often work in larger environments.
How Much Money Do Electricians Make?
As a general rule, domestic electricians can expect to earn between $26,800 and $25,806 per year. This figure can vary significantly depending on the level of experience, location and skill set.
What Are the Different Types of Wiring?
Whether you’re a domestic or commercial electrician, you’ll be dealing with wires in varying sizes. In domestic settings, these wires are encased in flexible plastic sheathing to keep them protected and insulated from moisture. This is to protect the wiring from wear and tear, as well as prevent it from tripping a circuit breaker.
In the case of commercial buildings, wiring is typically installed through ducts or conduits. These spaces are more accessible for technicians making alterations, replacements, and repairs.
How to Become a Commercial Electrician
The qualifications needed for commercial electricians are usually more advanced and broader than those of domestic electricians. This is because commercial electricians usually work in bigger spaces and require more technical knowledge. They’re also responsible for inspecting and testing industrial properties to ensure they meet all the necessary safety standards.
In addition, they might also need to work in factories and warehouses where large electrical machines are used. These settings can be dangerous and need to be inspected regularly by a qualified professional. This is why you need to be able to safely and effectively perform all of the jobs that your employers ask you to carry out.