A domestic electrician is someone who works in a residential setting and specializes in handling the electrical wiring and connections of homes. They can also perform a wide range of other services such as home automation, generator installation, and whole house surge protection.
How to Become a Domestic Electrician
If you want to be a domestic electrician, you need to make sure that you are equipped with the skills and qualifications to do so. The best way to get started is by taking part in a course that teaches you everything you need to know about the job. These courses will train you in the 18th edition wiring regulations, inspection and testing, and other important topics that are essential for carrying out any electrical work.
How to Become a Registered Domestic Electrician
One of the fastest ways to start your career as an electrician is by becoming a registered domestic electrician. This is a great option if you are interested in becoming self-employed and able to sign off your own notifiable work as soon as you have a portfolio of customers. To become a registered electrician you need to be able to prove that you have at least 24 months of experience within the industry, the latest version of the wiring regulations qualification, Level 3 Inspection and Testing qualifications, and an Electrotechnical Level 3 NVQ.
You need to be a member of a Competent Persons Scheme (CPS) such as NICEIC in order to become a registered domestic electrician. These schemes are run by authorised trade organisations and cost about PS450 a year for membership.
A CPS will assess you on your experience and knowledge of the electrical industry, your recording keeping, and your insurance cover. Once you pass the assessment, you will be able to pay the registration fee and join the scheme.
Domestic Wiring is Different from Commercial Circuits
Unlike residential circuits, commercial electrical installations are designed to operate on a higher voltage. This allows the big machines used in commercial settings to last longer and have higher overall efficiency. In addition, commercial installations have to deal with more power demands than their residential counterparts.
When working in a commercial setting, technicians need to use more insulation and a more powerful electrical tool set than domestic electricians. They also need to be more knowledgeable about the specific wiring rules that govern commercial buildings.
Another difference between commercial and residential electricians is that domestic installations tend to be carried out before the drywall. This is done to prevent maintenance issues that may arise in a residential setting where the wiring is more accessible than in a commercial building.
While most residential electricians are responsible for installing electricity, lighting wiring, and conducting repairs in households, many also take on a wide variety of other jobs including replacing and upgrading wires, breaker boxes, and electrical appliances in older homes. This can be particularly important for homes that are old and haven’t been upgraded in a long time. In addition to these tasks, some domestic electricians specialise in renewable energy installation and other more advanced projects.