Typically electricity and water don’t play well together, but modern technology has given birth to lights that can not only get wet, but be fully submerged underwater.

Color-changing capability, energy efficiency and custom lighting effects ramp up the cool-factor even more. There’s no end to their creative applications, but I’ve found that some people are prime candidates for these innovative lights.

This is really important! Note that there can be vast distinctions between the different lights that are labeled “wet location lights.” A light fixture that can withstand rain may not be able to withstand full immersion. It all comes down to a vitally important specification called an Ingress Protection Rating (or IP Code). For the purposes of today’s post, we’ll be talking about lights that are IP-68 rated. (Read more about that via

In addition, our industrial electricians specialize in testing, repair, and maintenance of electrical systems in plants, factories and other types of industrial settings. Our industrial electricians are in high demand due to the large number of businesses that depend on the proper installation and functioning of electrical equipment.

Education Requirements

Let there be no doubt: electricians perform complex work. If you’re interested in entering this field, you’ll need specific knowledge and training. While still in high school, prospective electricians should complete basic math and science courses. After graduating high school, candidates enter an apprenticeship program.

As an apprentice, individuals complete 9000 hours of on-the-job training, practicing skills and working under the supervision of other licensed electricians. An apprenticeship could also include classroom study, either at work or at a community college or trade school. After completing the required hours of work, trainees would take a licensing exam that qualifies them to work as journeyman electricians. Working electricians may choose to continue their education by keeping up-to-date on technology and manufacturing trends.

Typical industrial electrician duties include repairing and maintaining large electrical equipment or installing and testing new systems. Electricians need to understand blueprints and diagrams that show circuits and wiring and will need to gain proficiency in a wide variety of diagnostic tools.

Industrial electricians often work in physically challenging environments. Electricians frequently have to crawl into tight places, climb on machines or work in dark conditions. They may be required to work outside in all types of weather. To excel at the job, our team members remain physically strong, healthy and flexible.

Electricians often have a fixed schedule, but sometimes are required to do shift work or to be on call. Because equipment may need to be repaired at any hour, our staff is prepared to come back to the job site if any emergencies occur.

Job Prospects

Call us today! 

If you own a home in Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, DC, you likely need the services of an electrician periodically. Maybe you’ve bought a new appliance and need a new outlet. Maybe you’re adding a new room to your home or you’ve purchased an older home that needs the wiring to be updated. Whatever your electrical needs, it’s important to find an experienced electrician who can complete the job safely and effectively.

Finding the best electrician possible is important to completing your job successfully, safely, and at a price you can afford. Start by eliminating anyone who is not licensed. To be licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and/or Washington, DC, an electrician needs to go through extensive training, work as an apprentice, and pass a licensing test. They also must keep current on the latest technology, code requirements, and procedures in order to keep their licenses.

However, not all licensed electricians are equal. You’ll want to ask for references from any electrician you’re considering hiring. Be wary of any companies that hesitate or refuse to offer references. You can likely eliminate those from the list of the best electricians immediately! For more information on finding a good electrician in the DC region, read our recent blog.

If you need an electrical contractor in the DC area, Kolb Electric is the best electrician for the job. All of our workers are licensed electricians, and we’ve been helping area home and commercial building owners like you with their electric needs for nearly 90 years. We are a full-service electrical contractor, and we are happy to tackle any electrical project, from installing a new outlet to rewiring an entire house. Plus, we offer our repair services 24/7 for any emergency.

To see how what makes Kolb Electric the best electrician for residential and commercial projects in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, check out or testimonials or call 877 287-1179 to schedule your appointment.