Make the most of your home now more than ever! Our craftsmen are here for you.

Announcement

We offer a wide range of services for that fresh look, or just maintenance or updates to keep your home functioning and safe. Regardless of the size of the job, we have a craftsman that can tackle it. We offer a wide range of services for that fresh look, or just maintenance or updates to keep your home functioning and safe. Regardless of the size of the job, we have a craftsman that can tackle it.

Learn More!

Electrical  /  June 22, 2023

Red Deer Handyman: 4 Dangers of DIY Electrical Repair

4 Dangers of DIY Electrical Repair

Homeowners often want to focus on DIY repairs to save money — even when they actually don’t. Electrical repairs and installations are not suitable for DIYers; they are dangerous with significant risks to your home and health. Always hire an electrician in Red Deer to work on your house.

Even relatively small jobs, such as swapping out an outlet, can become dangerous, especially in older homes. Older houses can have numerous quirks in the wiring and system that can make controlling the power supply challenging, especially with inaccurate labels.

Top 4 Dangers of Electrical DIY

The draw to DIY is financial. Most people assume that projects are less expensive when they don’t have to pay for labour. In some cases, the assumption is true, but not all. Electrical systems are complex, so novices may make significant and costly mistakes. Besides the financial risks of DIY, there are also safety risks, which are also substantial.

Consider the risks before you ever consider putting on your tool belt and performing DIY electrical work. Working with electricity is potentially hazardous in several ways.

1. Damage to Electrical System

If you are unfamiliar with wiring and circuitry, damaging your existing electrical system is easy. By making the wrong connections or leaving faulty wiring in place, you risk every connection and the electrical box in your home.

Sometimes, repairs require complete rewiring of sections within your house. Many DIYers don’t recognize the need for rewiring and instead, try to patch into a system that is already strained.

A licensed and experienced electrician will not have the same problems. They understand how to look for faulty wiring and how to tell the difference between correct and incorrect connections.

2. Electrocution

The most significant risk to DIYers is electrocution when working on electrical systems. Granted, most residential systems are lower voltage and will not provide a lethal shock. Still, even home systems can provide a significant jolt, knocking someone off balance or off a ladder. The fall can be fatal. Also, depending on the individual, the jolt can be deadly.

Professionals wear all essential safety gear. They also understand how to reduce electrocution risks. Most professionals will turn off the power before working on any electrical problems or installations.

3. Fire

Besides electrocution, electrical fires are the most significant hazard of electrical work. DIYers may make mistakes that result in shorts or surges, causing excess sparks, heat, etc. Fire can stem from tying old wiring to new wiring, especially if the older wiring is not up to date with current codes.

While anyone is capable of making a mistake, DIYers are more prone to making dangerous ones. Never work on your system without prior knowledge and experience; it is always best to hire a licensed professional.

4. Failed Inspections

Many DIYers fail to get proper permits, and they fail many inspections. Trying to learn electrical repair on the fly is not advisable. While some homeowners may feel they need to focus on DIY, the methods often fail them.

Even if you’re facing time constraints, it is always best to hire a pro. Professionals are your best shot at completing inspection-ready work in a timely manner. Also, professionals will never start a job without proper permits.

Top Electrical Repair Services

Are you trying to get your house ready to sell, or are you looking to add new lighting to your yard space? Whatever your electrical needs, it is best to work with licensed and experienced professionals. Contact Handyman Connection to discuss your needs and schedule a project estimate with a licensed professional who has years of experience.

We Offer Project Consultations!

Request an Estimate