Although they may seem the same at first thought, domestic and commercial electricians are not identical professions.
Both are professional electricians involved in meticulous electrical work and services, but their roles can still be contrastive on so many levels.
Explore the key differences between a domestic and commercial electrician in this blog.
What are the Different Types of Electricians?
There are a plethora of types when it comes to electricians, which can be divided according to specialisation and certification level:
Speciality:
- Domestic (residential) electricians
- Commercial electricians
- Maintenance electricians
- Industrial electricians
- Construction electricians
- Instrumentation electricians
- Automotive electricians
- Solar panel electricians
- Highway electrical systems electricians
Certification Level:
- Apprentice electrician
- Journeyman electrician
- Master electrician
Who is a Commercial Electrician?
This electrician specialises in commercial electrical work, meaning that they offer electrical services for commercial properties and facilities, such as workplaces, schools, hospitals, retail spaces, factories, and more.
Who is a Domestic Electrician?
This electrician’s speciality is related to domestic electrical work, which entails dealing with electrical systems in residential properties, including houses, apartments, and bungalows.
What is the Difference Between a Commercial and a Domestic Electrician?
Here are the key points of differences between the two kinds of electricians or electrical contractors that are worth mentioning:
Scope and Complexity
Commercial Electrician
- Commercial electricians work with three-phase power and high-voltage systems; thus, they deal with higher-rated fuses.
- They usually focus on more intricate electrical systems, where they get to work on a more complex and larger scale.
- They carry out complex system installations, such as industrial lighting, transformers, switchboards, emergency systems, power distribution systems, etc.
Domestic Electrician
- A domestic electrician works with smaller project sizes and lower voltage systems.
- They carry out simpler electrical installations, such as electrical outlets, wiring systems, appliances, and lighting fixtures.
- They handle duties like wiring homes and repairing electrical issues in houses.
Skills and Qualifications
Commercial Electrician
- They need to undertake more extensive training and qualifications.
- The skills they require should be quite advanced, which include the ability to read elaborate blueprints and the installation of complex or safety systems, like fire alarms and an intercom system.
- They need to have sufficient knowledge regarding industrial wiring layouts, high voltage systems, and three-phase power systems.
Domestic Electrician
- They have foundational electrical knowledge, but not necessarily as advanced as their commercial counterparts.
- They must acquire rudimentary technical skills when it comes to upgrading outdated systems, as well as diagnosing and repairing domestic electrical faults.
- They need to be certified, but not as much as commercial electricians, who usually acquire additional certifications.
Safety Standards and Regulations
Commercial Electrician
- They must adhere to stricter electrical codes and regulations, which prioritise electrical safety, such as The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
- They must use more robust personal protective equipment (PPE).
Domestic Electrician
- They should comply with basic residential building codes when dealing with electricity to ensure electrical safety.
- They need to use personal protective equipment, but not with the same high level of protection as with commercial electricians.
Equipment and Supplies
Commercial Electrician
- They utilise more advanced equipment and specialised tools for their electric work, such as wire feeders, conduit benders, cable pullers, industrial-grade components, and thermal imaging devices.
Domestic Electrician
- They use less advanced equipment and supplies, including wire strippers, screwdrivers, pliers, and voltage testers.
Need a Commercial or Domestic Electrician? Route Electrical LTD Has Both
Whether you are a business owner or a homeowner, Route Electrical LTD in London can deal with all your electrical needs, no matter how simple or how complex.
Whether residential or commercial electricians, our team is one of the most reliable and trustworthy when it comes to electrical work and professional services.
We offer a wide range of electrical services, including electrical installations, EICR, house rewiring, electrical repairs, and so much more.
Get in touch with us today, and we will be more than happy to provide you with a free quote.
