Live electricity is no joke and that’s why it’s always important to call in professional help when problems arise. Whether for basic wiring, safety tests, connection issues or anything in between, you’ll want to have a pair of trusted hands on deck who can handle whatever comes their way. But what if the task in question goes beyond the basics and requires something more? That’s when you’ll need a level 2 electrician Sydney. Follow the wire trail below as we look into the difference between level 2 electricians and ordinary electricians so you can make the right call when the time comes.
Ordinary electricians
Ordinary electricians, otherwise known as level 1 technicians, tackle basic electrical work and have less training when compared to their level 2 counterparts. They typically deal with circuitry and wiring problems, loose switches, safety assessments and system upgrades. Ordinary electricians will focus on repair and maintenance tasks across residential homes and workplaces. It’s not uncommon for them to specialise in a certain field.
Level 2 electricians
What is a level 2 electrician? Level 2 electricians have a higher qualification which means that they are able to carry out more advanced jobs for clients. They will have undergone specific training and hold a license to do repairs, maintenance and level 2 electrical installation across a range of electrical components. This includes overhead and underground electrical work that connects a customer’s home or business to an electrical supply network. This being a key difference between level 2 electricians and ordinary operators.
Services that level 2 electricians offer
- Smart metering
Level 2 accredited electricians are qualified to install smart meters that keep track of power usage. These devices are used by energy companies to measure how much they should bill customers for their service. A smart meter can be installed either indoors or outdoors, depending on the property’s design layout.
- Disconnection and reconnection
Level 2 accredited electricians can connect a customer’s property to an electrical network using overhead or underground lines. Similarly, they can also reconnect them to reestablish a power source to a home or office building. This work may be necessary when carrying out safety tests or electrical system upgrades.
- Power upgrades
Level 2 accredited electricians can perform power upgrades, taking residential properties with a single phase setup to a 3 phase upgrade. Work such as this involves changing the wiring system and requires specialist tools and experience. Power upgrades can increase your output and allow for higher usage levels.
- Cable repairs
Level 2 accredited electricians can repair damage to cables caused by hot temperatures and extreme conditions. Such deterioration can expose the inner copper wires to the air which can lead to many potential hazards. Qualified professionals should always be called in to deal with these problems safely.
- Meter installation
Level 2 electricians are authorised and licensed to install power meters. A power meter is crucial for all residential and commercial properties, as it is an instrument that allows you to keep track of your power usage and billing.
- Underground and overhead power supply
Electric power can be transmitted two ways: through the installation of overhead or underground power supply. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and depending on the location of your property, amongst other factors, one may be required over the other. Underground power requires cables to be buried underground while overhead power involves the installation of power poles to supply electricity. Level 2 electricians are able to carry out this sort of work, and can also be called on to replace faulty electric poles or cables.
Level 2 electricians are authorised and licensed to install power meters. A power meter is crucial for all residential and commercial properties, as it is an instrument that allows you to keep track of your power usage and billing.
How to get the Level 2 (ASP) Electrical Qualification?
In order to become a level 2 electrician ASP, a Level 2 ASP Electrical Qualification is required. This qualification helps to maintain and ensure the safety and quality of electrical networks and its connections to distribution networks. Only Accredited Services Provider Level 2 (ASP) administered by NSW Trade & Investment are legally allowed to perform work.
The process involves a few steps:
- Finish your Electrical Contractors License (Electrical Apprenticeship). This generally required you to do a 4-year practical, on-site apprenticeship in addition to studying 1 day a week at TAFE for 3 years.
- Choose the ASP class and level you want to pursue. The ASP scheme is broken down into 3 levels and the services undertaken by a Level 2 electrician are segmented into 4 classes.
- Complete your Level 2 ASP training. Once accepted a fee will apply and you will have to successfully complete a 1 week, 14-hour course.
- Apply for your accreditation. After successfully completing your course, you can apply to receive your accreditation.
- Apply for your authorisation. After receiving your accreditation, you must fill out relevant paperwork and send it to the local authority, who will then check you have all the mandatory equipment before signing you off.
Start working! Now that you’re authorised, you can start working on Level 2 ASP jobs.
Qualified hands for your electrical problems
Battery-powered: These are easy-to-install and have replaceable batteries.
AC-powered: These can generally only be installed by an electrician and are more durable, due to their direct-wired power source.
The important thing to remember when it comes to choosing an electrician is that level 2 accredited professionals have a greater level of training and can undertake more advanced work. Speak to the team at Overhead Electrical if you need expert assistance across Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Our level 2 electricians have the experience and training to work on any job site and will get you back up and running in no time at all. Look to us for a range of services, including smart meter installation, power upgrades, disconnection and connection, cable repairs and so much more.
Contact us on 0409 017 436 at any time to chat about how we can help with your electrical engineering level 2 needs. Get in touch for a free consultation and trust that we have everything under control when it comes to level 2 electrical work.