Buying electrical supplies and tools without any prior knowledge or experience may prove to be tedious and at times disastrous. In such cases getting some advice would help.

The first and foremost factor that you want to keep in mind is that getting sub-grade or an inappropriate product may not only be costly in the long run but may also prove dangerous. Costly because you would have to replace the product more often and dangerous because malfunctioning of any of these items can result in serious accidents (such as short circuits).

Remember that if you are going to do some serious electrical work in your building, either inside or outside, you need to get the required permits and have the finished work approved by the local building inspector. This is especially true for buying electrical boxes that enclose wire connections.

When you purchase the electrical supplies such as wires, cables, fuses, you have to look at the label information, power and voltage ratings, types, and colours (in case of wires) to make sure that they fit your application. For example, for providing earth or ground you need green wires or bare copper wires.

The label information in wires’ case would provide information about the wires’ heat resistance, suitability for use in wet areas, resistance to oil and gas, and the type of insulation. Maximum voltage rating would give you understanding about how much voltage the wire can carry and so on.

If you are buying a fuse, keep in mind that the higher rating indicates the fuse would allow a higher and more dangerous electrical current to pass through (which increases risks). Hence it is better not to buy a fuse with extremely high ratings. If you are buying a circuit breaker, you should look at the load capacity.

When you buy extension cords, electrical boxes, conduits etc you need to choose according to where you need the object, outdoors or indoors. If outdoors, the material of the product would differ. It would be weather resistant (such as non metallic conduits).

While buying switches and dimmers note the voltage and ampere ratings as well as the type of switch you want, one way, three-way, multi location etc. You have to consider the ratings for lighting as well.

You should also consider compatibility while buying electric supplies. They need to go with the rest of your wiring, circuitry, fixtures etc.

If you are going to work with electricity, you will need some tools also. Essential items include electrical gloves, safety glasses, extension cords, wire cutters and strippers, wire testers, pliers, and screw drivers.

Once you have gotten all these things in mind you could go shopping for electrical supplies and tools.