The electrical contractor business is a unique one. It’s not just about installing and repairing wiring – it’s about keeping homes and businesses safe from electrical hazards. It can be a lot of responsibility, but it’s also a lot of fun. After all, what other business lets you play with electricity all day? If you’re thinking of becoming an electrical contractor St Louis MO, here are a few things you need to know.
- You Will Need Many Years of Training and Experience
There’s no getting around it – to be a successful electrical contractor, you will need many years of training and experience. An electrician apprenticeship typically lasts four years. During that time, you will learn the basics of electrical theory and wiring. After your apprenticeship, you will likely work as a journeyman electrician for several years before starting your own business. In total, it can take 10-15 years to become a fully qualified electrical contractor.
It is important to note that there are some physical requirements for the job. Electricians often have to work in tight spaces, such as crawlspaces and attics, and they must be able to lift heavy objects, such as tools and equipment. And because you will be working with color-coded wires, you must have good color vision.
- You Need to Choose an Area of Expertise
While electricians are trained to do various tasks, from installing outlets to repairing wiring, most electrical contractors choose to specialize in one particular area. The following are the most common areas of specialization and what they entail:
Residential electricians: Residential electricians install, repair, and maintain the electrical systems in homes. This includes tasks such as installing outlets, wiring kitchens and bathrooms and replacing old or damaged wiring.
Commercial electricians: Commercial electricians work on the electrical systems in businesses and other commercial buildings. This can include tasks such as installing new lighting fixtures, repairing electrical panels, and troubleshooting electrical problems.
Industrial electricians: Industrial electricians work in factories and other industrial settings. They are responsible for tasks such as installing conveyor belts, repairing machinery, and maintaining the electrical systems in these facilities.
- There is Some Danger in Being an Electrician
Working with electricity can be dangerous, and electricians are at risk of being injured or killed on the job. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians have one of the highest rates of work-related injuries and deaths of any occupation.
There are a few things you can do to minimize the risks associated with being an electrician. First, make sure you receive proper training from a qualified instructor. Second, always follow safety protocols when working with electricity. And third, wear the proper safety equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and rubber-soled boots, when working.
- You Need to be Bonded and Insured
Before you can start working as an electrical contractor, you need to obtain a bond and insurance. A bond is a form of financial protection that ensures you will complete your work quickly and professionally. The insurance protects you and your business from liability in the event that someone is injured or property is damaged while you are working.
- You Need to Get a Business License
In most states, you need to obtain a business license before you can start working as an electrical contractor. The requirements for obtaining a license vary from state to state, but they typically involve passing an exam and proving that you have the necessary training and experience.
- You Will Need to Market Your Business
To be successful as an electrical contractor, you need to market your business to potential customers. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as creating a website, handing out business cards, and placing ads in local publications.
- You Need to Stay Up-to-Date on the Latest Technology
Electricians need to stay up-to-date on the latest technology to be able to do their job effectively. This includes new products, tools, and techniques. It is also important to keep up with changes in the National Electrical Code, which is the standard for electrical installations.
- It can be quite lucrative
Being an electrician can be quite lucrative. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for electricians is around $60,000. Master electricians, who have more experience and training, can earn even more.
- You can work for yourself
One of the great things about being an electrician is that you can work for yourself. If you have the necessary training and experience, you can start your own electrical contracting business. This gives you the freedom to set your own hours and rates.
- You need to be good with people
While much of the work of an electrician is done alone, you will also need to be good with people. This is because you will often work in people’s homes and businesses. You need to be able to communicate effectively with customers and explain your work in a way that they can understand.