Life as a Maintenance Electrician

By Dexter Johnson


If you are looking for a work as a maintenance electrician you may ask yourself what a typical work day will be like.

Maintenance electricians install and maintain electrical and power systems for homes, companies and manufacturing facilities. Electricians are responsible for all machines that requires electricity.

Electricians commonly focus on construction or maintenance; however, many will do both. Electricians concentrate in construction by installing electrical wiring systems in new homes, businesses, factories or in maintenance by fixing, maintaining, installing and updating existing electrical systems and equipment. Electricians are required to follow local and state building codes and the National Electrical Code when working.

Electricians know how to read through technical drawing and blueprints to ascertain location of electrical components, load centers, circuits, panel and other components. They then will be able to install wires and components to ensure the system performs properly and in accordance to code.

Electricians use a number of hand tools to wire and install electrical components like pliers, hacksaws, screwdrivers, conduit benders, wire strippers and power tools like drills and saws. They also use measuring equipment such as harmonic testers, voltmeters, ammeters, ohmmeters and other equipment to test connection and ensure compatibility and safety of components.

Maintenance electricians are responsible for repairing and replacing electrical equipment when they break down. An essential skill that electricians must possess, is the ability to quickly troubleshoot and make repairs to minimize equipment downtime which maybe expensive in manufacturing plants.

Electricians work in various environments such as new construction, businesses and plants which maybe dirty, noisy, wet, hot, cold, dry, dusty and dark. While working electricians may stand for long periods of time, bend, kneel or place themselves in award positions.

Safety is very important when working as an electrician. There is always danger of injury from electrical shocks, falls, cuts, bruises, so it's critical that they adhere to strict safety procedures to avoid injury.




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