AI appears to be magic but it really isn't. Electricians should use AI to improve how they work and get more done.
Think of it like a decent apprentice but for office work. An apprentice can get all your kit set up and ready for a load of chasing. AI can set up and get draft emails ready and provisionally write up a quote for you. But much like the apprentice still needs to be watched when they're doing the chasing, the AI output still needs checking by someone competent.
AI is a tool. Do not use AI as the final authority.
For example, AI can help write an explanation of RCD protection or bonding for a customer but it should not decide whether a particular installation complies with the Wiring Regulations without a qualified electrician checking the detail if the property and the AI output.
Electricians using AI in a smart way will give their AI bots information from placeslike Electrical Safety First provides technical best practice guides. This gives the AI bot information which influences its output which for you, means a higher quality response to your request and less editing.
Quick Tips for Using AI in an Electrical Business
1. Start By Training an Custom GPT (if you use ChatGPT)
A custom GPT can be given specific information to reference and can be used for a very specific purpose. Like the example above, if you trained a GPT on the wiring regulations, it could make it easier to reference the regs and find information.
But, as a disclaimer, don't somehow get a PDF copy of the regs and upload it to ChatGPT. The IET won't take very kindly to that and WILL try and sue you.
2. Use AI to Turn Voice Notes Into Quotes
Most electricians have rough notes from site visits. AI can turn those notes into a structured quote.
ServiceM8 users are using QuickQuote which is an AI tool that links to ServiceM8. You just talk about the job, mention any specific materials and the AI creates the quote for you.
Always check the scope, prices, materials, VAT position, and compliance wording before sending though. QuickQuote will tell you if it can't find any specific materials.
3. Use AI for Plain English Explanations
Customers often struggle to understand electrical terminology.
AI can help explain terms such as:
- RCD - RCBO - SPD - Main protective bonding - C1, C2, C3 and FI observations - Part P - EICR - Electrical Installation Certificate - Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate
Example prompt:
“Explain to my like I'm 10 years old. What is RCBO and why do homeowners need them? Make it clear without sounding patronising.”
This helps customers understand value rather than just price.
4. Protect Customer Data
Do not paste sensitive customer information into AI tools without thinking.
Avoid entering:
- Full names with addresses - Alarm codes - Payment details - Private access information - Sensitive landlord or tenant details - Photos containing personal information
OpenAI states that ChatGPT includes privacy controls such as temporary chats and memory controls, and business data protections vary by product. Still, electricians should keep prompts clean and remove details that are not needed.
Use “a customer in Leeds” instead of a full name and address. Use “a two-bedroom rental property” instead of uploading unnecessary private details.
Common Mistakes Electricians Make With AI
Relying on AI for Technical Compliance
AI can sound confident while being wrong. It can 'hallucinate' and make stuff up.
Never use it as the final source for BS 7671, Part P or inspection coding but rather use it as a tool to help you locate the information you need.
Giving Vague Prompts
Rubbish in = Rubbish out
Giving a bad prompt is a guaranteed way to get you saying 'AI is rubbish'.
A better way to prompt is to use the RCCB Method. (No, not that RCCB) Role: Who do you want it to act like? A professional copy writer? A technical expert?
Content: What content is it creating for you? Client explainer sheets? New blog posts?
Context: Who are you? What's the details about your business? Who is the audience?
Boundaries: What are the rules you want it to follow? No Em or En dashes (Dead giveaway something is AI generated) Use British English.
If it's a custom GPT give it some example content that you've actually written.
FAQ: AI for Electricians
What is AI for electricians?
AI for electricians is the use of artificial intelligence tools to help with admin, customer communication, quotes, planning, marketing, checklists, and business systems. It should support you as an electrical contractor and business owner, not replace anyone's jobs or professional judgement.
Can AI write electrical quotes?
Yes. AI can draft electrical quotes from job notes, but the electrician must check the scope, price, materials, exclusions, VAT, timescales, and technical wording before sending the quote.
Can electricians use ChatGPT?
Yes. Electricians can use ChatGPT for emails, quote wording, checklists, customer explanations, social media posts, complaint responses, and business processes. Make sure you create a custom GPT for best results.
Will AI replace electricians?
No I don't think AI will replace competent electricians doing physical installation, fault finding, inspection, testing, and customer-facing site work, however, it will help organised electricians run better businesses and reduce unpaid admin time. I do believe that AI isn't going to take your job however those who do not adopt AI will get left behind.
What is the best AI task to start with?
A simple task to start using AI for is redrafting emails or replies to customers who have questions about their quotes. Ask the AI agents to redraft the email in a specific tone. Like we mentioned above you could create a custom GPT for things like Facebook posts or blog content.
Is AI safe for customer data?
AI can be used safely when electricians avoid sharing unnecessary personal or sensitive information. Remove names, addresses, alarm codes, payment details, and private access information before using AI tools.
Can AI help with EICRs?
AI can help with the comments on the existing installation if you give it the context. I like to use the acronym WAS NEW so I a comment on the wiring, accessories, switch gear, notices and labels, earthing and bonding and wear and tear. I tend to give AI my overview and then have it redo it in a slightly more professional manner
Final Thoughts
AI for electricians starts with simple, practical tasks. Do not begin with complicated automation. Start with the admin that wastes time every week.
Use AI to write clearer messages, build better quote templates, explain technical work, organise checklists, and create repeatable systems. Keep technical responsibility with the electrician.
The electricians who benefit most from AI will not be the ones chasing every new tool. They will be the ones using it to run a cleaner, faster, more professional business.