TOOLS &TOOLING
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Power tool trends 2026: What electrical contractors need to know A s power tools evolve, 2026 will be crucial for South African electrical contractors. Newer tools
overloading extension leads or adaptors at charging stations. Suggest investing in compliant, heavy-duty accessories and encourage customers to check plug points for heat buildup, which signals circuit stress. Offer guidance for safer charging setups. Encourage clients to add surge protection at distribution boards and use surge-protected outlets for all sensitive chargers and batteries. Advise these measures to guard against damage from load shedding and voltage fluctuations. In summary, power tool trends in 2026 present exciting opportunities and new risks for homeowners and contractors alike. By proactively addressing these challenges, electrical contractors can ensure workshops remain safe, reliable, and ready for future demands—solidifying their essential role in creating high- performance workspaces for the next generation of tools.
to find a charger running alongside a table saw, dust extractor, and LED task lighting—all sharing the same circuit. This surge in demand places considerable stress on household electrical circuits, plugs, and sockets. Overloaded extension leads, ageing outlets, and under-rated multiplugs can overheat, risking damaged wiring or electrical faults. For contractors, this means advising clients about electrical safety is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Electrical contractors should conduct a thorough assessment of workshop electrical demands. Recommend dedicated circuits for heavy-duty tools, confirm plugs and sockets are correctly rated for these loads, and advise using industrial-grade extension reels to support sustained use. These steps ensure safe operation and reliable performance. Contractors should teach clients to avoid extension of its flagship Apollo wiring accessories line, aimed at homeowners, specifiers and electrical contractors seeking a more contemporary aesthetic at price points tailored to the local market. The Shadow series is distinguished from earlier Apollo products by a straight-edged frame, a matt finish, and a subtly curved side profile that casts a soft shadow line against the wall when installed — the design cue that gives the range its name. It is offered in two finishes, Apollo Shadow White and Apollo Shadow Black, allowing it to sit comfortably alongside both light and dark interior palettes. The launch covers the full breadth of residential and light-commercial fit-outs. On the switch side, LESCO has populated the range with one-way and two-way variants, from a single lever to a six- lever in the 4×4 format, with 2×4 versions available from 1 to 4 levers. On the socket side, the line-up includes a 16A switched single and double, a 16A switched single with IEC, a 16A Schuko/IEC un-switched combination, and a 16A switched single with USB 3.1 A+C. The range also extends to 4×4 and 4×2 50A isolators, blanks, and 1-way/2-way switch modules in matched Shadow finishes. Customised two-way switch configurations are available on request through the LESCO sales team. For LESCO, the Shadow launch marks an inflection point in the company’s history. The business traces its roots to 1958, when Natie Shapiro founded Switch King. It was reconstituted as LESCO Manufacturing in 1999 under his son, David, and today operates under the third generation of family leadership, with Jonathan Shapiro as CEO. The company is ISO-approved, SMETA-audited, and a Proudly South African member. LESCO has a long-standing commitment to employing people with disabilities, women, and youth, and it frames the
domestic electrical infrastructure. This makes electrical contractors’ expertise more essential. Unlike their simple plug-in predecessors, today’s power tools are sophisticated, battery-powered devices with rapid chargers and high-wattage
offer higher output, advanced batteries, and smart charging, bringing greater convenience but also new challenges for
requirements. High- capacity lithium-ion batteries now allow cordless tools to rival corded models in torque and endurance. However, this leap in performance comes at a cost: fast chargers and multi-battery stations can draw substantial current, often rivalling small household appliances. In a typical garage, it’s not unusual
Diagnostic and testing tools for electrical contractors in South Africa By: Minx Avrabos E lectrical contractors rely on a wide range of diagnostic and testing tools to ensure electrical systems are safe, compliant, and operating ground testers in South Africa, providing accurate soil resistance measurements. Chauvin Arnoux, distributed locally, offers additional options for earth testing.
LESCO launches Apollo Shadow range: contemporary wiring accessories for the modern contractor P roudly South African electrical manufacturer LESCO has launched its new Apollo Shadow Range, an
The Shadow series is distinguished from earlier Apollo products by a straight-edged frame, a matt finish, and a subtly curved side
Circuit testers and continuity testers These tools help contractors check for live wires, open circuits, and continuity. Brands such as Major Tech, Fluke, and Klein Tools offer a variety of testers available through South African electrical wholesalers. Clamp Meters Clamp meters enable non-intrusive current measurement in live circuits. The Fluke 376 FC and Major Tech MT600 are respected models in the South African market, known for their durability and accurate readings. Thermal imagers Thermal imaging cameras such as the Flir E5 and Fluke TiS20+ are used to detect overheating components and potential faults before they become serious issues. These brands are available through South African distributors, ensuring contractors have access to advanced diagnostic technology. access to a wide range of diagnostic and testing tools from both global and local brands, including Fluke, Megger, Major Tech, Uni-T, Chauvin Arnoux, Klein Tools, and Flir. Choosing the right tools ensures that electrical work is carried out safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. Conclusion South African electrical contractors have
optimally. These tools not only support installation but are also essential for maintenance, troubleshooting, and certification. In South Africa, a range of reputable brands provides high-quality equipment to meet these needs. Multimeters Multimeters are indispensable for measuring voltage, current, and resistance. Digital multimeters, such as the Fluke 117 and the Uni-T UT61E, are popular among South African electricians for their accuracy and reliability. Major Tech, a well-known South African supplier, also offers a range of multimeters for different applications. Insulation testers Insulation resistance testing is vital for detecting deteriorating wiring and preventing electrical leaks. Brands such as Megger and Fluke are widely used in South Africa for high-quality insulation testers. Major Tech’s insulation testers are also favoured for their affordability and compliance with local safety standards. Earth ground testers Ensuring proper earthing is crucial for any electrical installation. The Fluke 1625 and the Megger DET4T are widely used earth
profile that casts a soft shadow line
against the wall when installed — the design cue that gives the range its name.
local manufacture of its products as central to that mission. The Apollo Shadow Range is now available through LESCO’s retail and electrical wholesale channels in South Africa. Trade enquiries, specifier samples and merchandising support can be requested directly from LESCO.
www.lescosk.com
SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS
JUNE 2026
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