Difference Between Level 2 and Level 1 Electrician

Several furnishings and electrical fittings can be installed easily at home by yourself.

However, for projects that are larger in scale and require more experience and knowledge, it is best to hire professional electricians. When such a situation arises, the first question is whether to hire a level 1 or level 2 electrician.

These two electrical qualifications have varying skill, knowledge, and experience levels and are authorised for specific jobs. Under Australian and NSW Law, Sydney electricians undergo various training procedures, including apprenticeships, to acquire the necessary accreditations and licences before being eligible for quality service.

In other words, electricians are assigned projects depending on their accreditations and skill levels. Understanding the difference between a level 1 and 2 electrician can help you determine which professional would better suit your needs.

The Different Roles Of Level 1 And Level 2 Electricians

First, we need to examine the roles and responsibilities to understand the critical differences between a level 1 and level 2 electrician.

The Role Of A Level 1 Electrician

Level 1 electricians are responsible for basic electrical operations that individuals cannot perform independently. While they are not as highly trained as Level 2 accredited electricians, they are equipped to handle faulty wiring, circuitry issues, loose switches, and similar repairs.

Their work covers repair, installation, and maintenance across residential and commercial properties, and some may specialise in specific fields. A Level 1 electrician can perform services including:

• Laying, stringing, and joining of electricity cables and wires
• Excavating underground trenches and erecting electricity poles
• All linework except those involving high-voltage systems
• Electrical installation of residential appliances, lights, and ceiling fans

Level 1 electricians can also carry out overhead and underground construction to help distribute electrical supply networks near roadways. They are often called to address power outages and support during electrical emergencies. Additionally, they may conduct safety inspections to ensure systems operate efficiently and comply with regulations.

The Role Of A Level 2 Electrician

Level 2 electricians have higher qualifications and are trained to handle specialised tasks beyond standard electrical work. They have undergone additional training and hold licences to perform a variety of advanced jobs, including:

• Installing contestable market metering
• Disconnection and reconnection
• Underground service lines
• Maintenance and repair of overhead service lines
• Relocating and upgrading service/consumer cables
• Power upgrades
• Laying underground electrical cables
• Designing overhead electrical networks

The key difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 electrician lies in their ability to manage more complex electrical problems. Level 2 electricians are responsible for constructing service lines between the distribution system and private properties, installing electrical meters, and upgrading power supplies.

These tasks often require experience and precision on the job site, as they involve critical connections between electrical networks and premises. Hiring a Level 2 electrician is usually essential, especially for heavy-duty work, due to their additional training and legal accreditation. This makes them a reliable choice for advanced electrical services.

Services Offered By A Level 2 Electrician

Since level 2 electricians hold more qualifications, they can complete more complex tasks and offer a greater number of services. Some of the services that they offer include:

1. Installing Power Metres And Smart Metres (Metering Services)

Level 2 electricians are qualified and authorised to install power metres essential for all residential and commercial properties. A power meter helps keep track of power usage and billing.

Similarly, smart metres can be installed for tracking power usage in any residential or commercial building. Energy companies use such devices to determine the amount they should charge customers.

2. Upgrading The Power Supply

If you want to upgrade the electricity supply, you should hire level 2 electricians to upgrade your electrical connections and electricity supply. They are qualified to upgrade residential setups from a single-phase installation to a three-phase unit. This involves changing the basic wiring system and requires experience and special tools only acquired by level 2 electricians. Level 2 electricians can also disconnect the power supply for overhead and underground electrical services.

3. Repairing Cables

Electric cables are often damaged due to hot temperatures and extreme conditions. Once damaged, the inner copper wires can be exposed to hazardous air.

Level 2 electricians are qualified to repair and replace such cables to prevent unwanted incidents.

4. Installing Overhead And Underground Power Supplies

If you want to connect your electrical networks to a private power pole, you need an accredited service provider with a level 2 electrical qualification. Power can be supplied to various industrial properties using overhead service conductors or underground power. Both have their advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different situations.

The overhead power supply requires the installation of electric poles and private power poles, whereas, in the case of underground service conductors, the cables have to be installed below the surface. Understandably, undertaking such installations falls under the ambit of level 2 electricians trained for such jobs, as they can even replace faulty electric poles or cables.

The Benefits of Hiring a Level 1 or Level 2 Electrician

When it comes to electrical work, engaging the services of a level 1 or level 2 electrician offers numerous advantages. These professionals bring expertise and qualifications that contribute to a range of benefits.

One key benefit is enhanced safety. Level 1 and level 2 electricians undergo specialised training and certification, reducing the likelihood of mistakes that could result in electrical fires or accidents. Their knowledge and skills ensure a safer working environment.

Another advantage is the assurance of superior quality. Level 1 and level 2 electricians prioritise using high-quality materials and employ excellent workmanship. This commitment to quality ensures that electrical work is performed correctly, promoting longevity and reliability.

Hiring a qualified electrician also provides peace of mind. Knowing that a competent professional handles your electrical tasks lets you focus on other aspects of your life or business. You can trust that the work will be completed efficiently and effectively.

When considering hiring an electrician, choosing a licensed and insured one is essential. Obtaining multiple estimates can also help you make an informed decision. By enlisting the services of a level 1 or level 2 electrician, you can ensure the safety, quality, and optimal functionality of your electrical systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Why are only level 2 electricians allowed to work on the grid?

Working on the electrical grid involves greater danger because of the higher voltage. That is why only level 2 electricians can work on it since they have the required training and expertise.

Q2. When will I need to hire a level 2 electrician?

Some standard electrical services for which you must hire a level 2 electrician include repairing cables damaged by UV rays, installing and upgrading power supplies, and replacing electrical systems. You can also hire them to perform electrical work on commercial electrical systems.

Understanding Different Electrical Qualifications in Sydney

After reading this guide, you will understand that a level 1 electrician is qualified for everyday electrical tasks. However, hiring a level 2 electrician becomes necessary for larger projects or more complex electrical jobs.

In some instances, hiring an electrician with a level 2 qualification may be a legal requirement. This is especially true for situations that require connecting and disconnecting the power supply from the electricity grid to the residential or commercial property.

For a level 2 electrician today, speak to the team at Bright Force Electrical. We are an experienced, reliable and friendly team of highly skilled professionals ready to undertake any project. Our team is also available 24/7 for any electrical emergencies in Sydney.

With that, it’s a wrap. See you next time! bvgt365