Electrical

About Electrical

The electrical category at MyToolShed.co.uk brings together essential power distribution, cable management, and electrical accessories for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts. From heavy-duty cable extension reels and site transformers that deliver reliable 240v or 110v power to work areas, through to cable ties, plugs, fuses, and RCD adaptors that ensure safe and compliant installations, this comprehensive range covers all aspects of electrical work across domestic, commercial, and industrial settings.

Whether you're a qualified electrician working to BS 7671 wiring regulations, a construction site manager requiring 110v transformer systems, or a competent DIYer tackling home improvements, MyToolShed stocks trusted brands that meet rigorous UK electrical standards. Our range includes power distribution equipment, cable management solutions, protective devices, timing controls, and essential accessories designed to withstand demanding professional use whilst remaining accessible for home projects.

Applications

• Electricians and electrical contractors – installation, testing, and maintenance work across all sectors
• Construction workers and site managers – temporary power distribution and 110v site equipment for safe operation
• Maintenance engineers and facilities managers – managing electrical infrastructure in commercial and industrial premises
• Plumbers and heating engineers – electrical supplies for boiler installations, heating controls, and pump connections
• Carpenters, joiners, and general builders – extension leads and power distribution for cordless and corded tools
• Event technicians and AV installers – cable management and power distribution for temporary installations
• Agricultural and rural workers – robust outdoor-rated electrical equipment for workshops and field work
• DIY enthusiasts and homeowners – quality accessories for permitted electrical work and home improvements

Choosing The Right Electrical

Voltage requirements: Determine whether you need 240v mains equipment for indoor installations or 110v site equipment for construction work. Site transformers convert between voltages safely, with 110v being the HSE-recommended standard for construction sites due to reduced shock risk.

Current rating and capacity: Calculate total load requirements to select appropriately rated extension reels, RCDs, and transformers. Remember that wound cable reels have reduced capacity and can overheat – always fully unwind cables under heavy load to prevent fire hazards.

Environmental protection: Consider IP ratings for your working conditions. Outdoor work requires minimum IP44 splash protection, whilst wet or dusty environments need IP65 or higher. Ensure transformers and outdoor sockets are weatherproof and suitable for site conditions.

Safety features: Look for built-in RCD protection on extension reels and adaptors, especially for outdoor use or handheld power tools. Thermal cut-out protection prevents cable reel overheating. Verify all products meet current UK electrical safety standards with appropriate certification marks.

Build quality: Professional trade use demands impact-resistant cases, reinforced cable entry points, and quality connectors that withstand demanding site conditions and frequent transportation.

Safety Information

Qualified electrical work: Many electrical tasks legally require completion by a qualified electrician registered with a competent person scheme. Part P Building Regulations govern installation work in England and Wales. Always ensure compliance with BS 7671 wiring regulations.

RCD protection: Use RCD-protected outlets when operating power tools outdoors or in wet conditions. Test RCDs regularly using the built-in test button and replace any unit that fails to trip correctly.

Extension lead safety: Never overload extension reels or daisy-chain multiple extensions. Fully unwind cable reels when drawing more than 5-6 amps. Inspect cables regularly for damage and replace immediately if compromised.

Regular inspection: Implement PAT testing for portable electrical equipment in commercial environments. Visual inspection before each use prevents many electrical accidents – check for damaged cables, loose connections, and missing earth pins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is 110v used on construction sites instead of 240v?

UK construction sites use 110v centre-tapped transformers (delivering 55v to earth) because this significantly reduces electric shock severity compared to 240v mains. The HSE recommends 110v for portable tools and temporary lighting as it's below the threshold for causing ventricular fibrillation, dramatically reducing fatal electrical accidents in construction.

What length extension lead should I choose?

Select the shortest practical length that comfortably reaches your work area. Excessive cable length increases voltage drop, affecting tool performance. For most workshop and domestic use, 10-15 metre reels are adequate, whilst construction sites may require 25-50 metre reels. Always fully unwind longer cables under load to prevent overheating.

Can I use outdoor extension leads indoors and vice versa?

Outdoor-rated extension leads (IP44 or higher) can safely be used indoors, though they're typically bulkier than necessary. However, indoor-rated leads should never be used outdoors as they lack weather sealing to prevent water ingress, creating serious shock and fire hazards. Always check the IP rating before use in wet or outdoor conditions.