We love to hear about new DIYers trying home improvement projects around their houses, but there are some things—like electrical, structural, and plumbing work—that are best left for professionals or very experienced DIYers who reliably pull permits. Learn about these risks before trying at home.
The Risks of DIYing Electrical Work
Within every category of home improvement like electrical, there are some tasks like a porch light installation that can be more easily DIYed than updating old knob-and-tube wiring (please never do this without a licensed professional). Pros are pros for a reason. For example, you wouldn’t perform your own root canal, right?
And even though you don’t already know a good electrician, and you may need to research “electrical repairs near me” to find a licensed electrician like Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing, don’t give into the temptation to just DIY it with a handy YouTube tutorial or blog post. Electric work can be dangerous, deadly even. In fact, there’s about 1000 electrical deaths within the U.S. annually.
Keep in mind that electrical systems are complex, and DIY enthusiasts may just lack the knowledge and experience needed to properly diagnose and address electrical issues. So, without the proper training and tools, DIY electrical work can be ineffective and can lead to recurring problems.
Here are some of the top DIY risks when doing electrical work:
Electrocution
Working with live wires without proper precautions can lead to electrocution, a potentially fatal risk. Even a momentary lapse in judgment or a simple mistake can have devastating consequences.
Fire hazard
Did you know that faulty electrical work is a leading cause of residential fires? That’s right, improper wiring, overloaded circuits, and other electrical faults can spark fires that spread rapidly, causing extensive damage to homes and belongings: appliances, electronics, and other electrical devices. Repairing or replacing these items can be costly and time-consuming.
Code violations
There are local building codes that you’ll need to follow. DIY electrical work done without a permit or inspection that fails to comply with building codes and regulations can result in fines, penalties, or even legal action by local authorities.
Insurance issues
Many homeowner insurance policies exclude coverage for damages caused by DIY electrical work. In the event of an electrical-related incident, homeowners may find themselves responsible for the full cost of repairs or replacements.
Health risks
There can be a chance that you could become exposed to hazardous materials, asbestos insulation, or lead-based paint. As you might already be aware, exposure to these materials can pose long-term health risks, including respiratory problems and neurological disorders.
Is There Any Electrical Work That Could Be Deemed DIY-Friendly?
Not all electrical work is created equally; there are some that you’ll basically need to hire a professional for, and there are somewhere you may not need to hire someone. Here are some electrical home projects that experienced DIYers could do.
Replacing light fixtures
Replacing a simple light fixture is more of a handyman service than an electrician project. Therefore, it’s pretty safe and easy for careful DIYers to do. Whether you’re updating the look of a room or simply replacing a worn-out fixture, the process is relatively straightforward.
Caution: Just remember to shut off the power at the breaker before starting. Use a voltage tester to make sure the power is off, as some breakers can be mislabeled. And follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful installation.
Swapping out ceiling fans
Swapping out old ceiling fan fixtures for new ones is a common DIY project that many homeowners can tackle with confidence. It’s really all about having the right tools and, of course, having a basic understanding of electrical wiring. Because some ceiling fans can be quite cumbersome, you may need a helper to handle the fixture while replacing and installing it.
Caution: Be sure to turn off the power at the breaker, use a voltage tester, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and take proper safety precautions throughout the installation process.
Under-cabinet lighting installation
A popular interior design trend is under-cabinet lighting in a kitchen or workspace. Whether it’s used for functionality and aesthetics, there are kits with plug-and-play installation or rechargeable under-cabinet lights. It can be relatively easy for DIYers to complete the installation themselves. But of course, you could just use LED strips, which eliminates dealing with electricity.
Why hire a professional?
Anything else that you aren’t comfortable or confident about doing should be handled by a professional. But other than safety and the potential of your home getting destroyed (and then not covered), what are some compelling reasons to fork over the money for this work?
Quality workmanship
Quality matters in electrical work; poorly installed wiring or improperly grounded circuits can lead to a host of problems, including electrical fires, power outages, and damage to appliances or electronics. Professional electricians have the skills and expertise to perform high-quality work that meets industry standards and they know the local building codes, too. Plus, they use the right tools and techniques to ensure that your electrical system operates efficiently and reliably for years to come.
Problem solving
Keep in mind that electrical issues can be complex and difficult to diagnose, especially for those without specialized training. The professionals know what they’re doing; after all, they have the knowledge and experience to identify the root cause of any electrical problems you may encounter and develop effective solutions.
Whether it’s troubleshooting a faulty circuit, upgrading an outdated panel, or installing a new lighting system, an electrician can provide expert guidance and support every step of the way. With zero or very limited experience, would you actually be able to troubleshoot the issue? Probably not.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps the most significant advantage of hiring an electrician is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that your electrical work has been completed safely, accurately, and in compliance with all relevant regulations allows you to relax and enjoy your home with confidence. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, upgrading your lighting, or simply needing a routine inspection, enlisting the services of a professional electrician ensures that the job gets done right the first time, giving you one less thing to worry about.
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