Not For DIYers: Projects Best Left to an Electrician

Homeowners face a constant barrage of expenses when it comes to upkeep. As the costs add up, the idea of tackling DIY repairs often seems more appealing. But when it comes to electrical work, the risks are big. Whether you are replacing a circuit breaker, upgrading a light fixture, or chandelier installation, there are some things that are safer in the hands of trained professionals. Don’t hesitate to call in the big guns to get the job done safely.

Mishaps with electrical work can result in personal injury, property losses, and even death. Did you know that 40% of electrical accidents occur in the home? When it comes to the safety of your family, it is almost never worth it to save a couple of hundred dollars.

What to Consider Before Attempting Electrical Projects

Those who are modestly handy might be more or less inclined to do their own electrical work. But before you bite off more than you can chew, there are a few things to consider about your project. The most important consideration is your experience. While the average homeowner probably doesn’t have a background in electrical work, experience and skill level are something that will vary by person.

Aside from your skill level, the age of your home will determine how difficult the task will be. Older homes have older wiring, and if you are installing new fixtures, you may need to make updates to bring the electrical up to modern building codes. And speaking of codes, the main reason to hire a residential electrician near you is to ensure that all work is performed according to local building codes. This is important when it comes time to sell your home.

Hiring an electrician also saves you time, money, and frustration. Electricians install fixtures and swap out circuit breaker boxes all day long. They will be able to get the job done in a fraction of the time that it will take someone who isn’t familiar with what they are doing. Not to mention, it is much safer to hire an electrician. The biggest mistake that homeowners make is trying to save a couple of hundred dollars by DIYing electrical work that is too advanced for their skills.

Projects Best Left for Electricians

If it involves electricity, there is a good chance that it is better off in the hands of a licensed electrician. Especially in instances where you should reply on an experienced emergency electrician. Complex projects like working on circuit breakers affect the flow of electricity for the entire home. Making a mistake here can cause major problems with blow fuses and possibly even start a fire. Even something simple like swapping out a light fixture can go awry for the inexperienced.

Here are some common tasks that you should hire an electrician for:

• Circuit Breakers
• Installing Outdoor Lighting
• Replacing Light Fixtures
• Adding Outlets
• Fixing a Short in Wiring
• Electrical Work Near Water (Sinks, Kitchen, Bathroom, Pool)
• Code Violations
• Appliance Repair

The Bottom Line on Projects Involving Electrical Work

Electrical work is something that can easily get out of hand for those who don’t know what they are doing. Adding outlets and fixing shorts in existing wiring might seem like simple tasks, and there are plenty of DIY warriors who swear that anyone can do it. But electrical work comes with big risks—life and death risks. Take it from the pros who know how dangerous your home electrical system can be. For the safety of yourself and your family, it is best to hire an electrician to perform tasks like installing outdoor lighting and replacing fixtures.

Livewire Electrical is your trusted source for electricians in the Charlotte, NC area. For help with your next project, give us a call!