If you’ve ever needed electrical work done and found yourself wondering whether to call an electrician or an electrical engineer, you’re not alone. The two roles sound similar, but they’re actually quite different in terms of training, responsibilities, and the type of work they do.
At LBA Electrical Services, we’re often asked about the difference – especially when people are comparing quotes or looking for the right professional for the job. So, let’s clear things up.
What Does an Electrician Do?
An electrician is a skilled tradesperson who installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings.
Domestic electricians (like us at LBA) typically handle:
- Installing lighting, sockets, and fuse boards
- Full or partial house rewires
- Fault-finding and electrical repairs
- Electrical safety inspections (EICRs)
- Installing electric vehicle chargers
- Fitting consumer units with RCD protection
- Wiring for home extensions or renovations
- Outdoor electrics (e.g. garden lighting, hot tubs)
Electricians often work hands-on, using tools to run wiring, test circuits, and ensure everything is installed to UK standards (such as BS 7671).
Qualifications required: NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation, AM2 assessment, and a good understanding of the latest wiring regulations.
What Does an Electrical Engineer Do?
An electrical engineer typically works at a more technical or design-focused level. Their role involves designing complex electrical systems, often for infrastructure, manufacturing, energy networks, or large commercial projects.
Electrical engineers might be involved in:
- Designing power generation or distribution systems
- Creating electrical schematics and blueprints
- Researching and developing new technologies (e.g. renewable energy systems)
- Project management for major electrical installations
- Working with high-voltage systems in industrial or utility sectors
They are usually degree-qualified and may be chartered through institutions like the IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology).
Qualifications required: BEng or MEng in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, often with additional industry certifications.
Which One Do You Need?
If you need help in your home or small business, whether it’s a new light fitting, a fuse board upgrade, or rewiring a kitchen, you’ll want to call a qualified electrician, not an electrical engineer.
An electrical engineer, on the other hand, might be involved in the design of the grid connection to a housing development, or the electrical system for a factory — not wiring a new consumer unit.
LBA Electrical Services: Local, Qualified, Trusted
We’re fully qualified electricians based in Merseyside, offering reliable electrical services for homeowners, landlords, and small businesses. No jargon. No overengineering. Just safe, compliant, and high-quality work — done properly.
