In the age of online tutorials, instructional videos, and how-to websites, many homeowners feel empowered to take on home repairs without professional help. While fixing a minor issue like a leaky faucet may be no big deal, attempting to fix other household tasks on your own can be dangerous. Attempting DIY electrical repairs can even prove deadly.
At Anderson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric in Mentor, OH, we have seen firsthand the devastation caused by DIY electrical repairs. We want you to understand the most pressing dangers of DIY repairs. You must understand why hiring a licensed electrician is the only safe way to handle electrical concerns.
Fire Hazards From Improper Electrical Work
According to the American Red Cross, faulty electrical wiring is one of the most common causes of household fires. Improper wiring can lead to arcing, short circuits, and overloading, which can all cause fires.
Loose wiring, overloaded circuits, and incorrect breaker configurations are the most common results of DIY repair approaches. Even minor mistakes, like using the wrong wire gauge, can lead to fires.
Without proper knowledge and testing equipment, homeowners may overlook warning signs that professionals would notice. Licensed electricians use specialized tools to ensure electrical systems and connections work safely and effectively. DIYers are more likely to rely on guesswork. A DIY approach to repairs could put your family in danger.
Fires do more than cause structural damage; they can lead to serious injuries and even death. Saving a few dollars with DIY repairs is not worth the risks.
Code Violations and Legal Consequences
Like all other cities across the United States, Mentor follows the National Electrical Code (NEC). Licensed electricians undergo extensive training to comply with these codes, which slowly change over time to meet the latest safety standards.
Homeowners attempting repairs rarely know or understand the code. Code violations may go unnoticed for years, but they can cause problems if you try to sell or file an insurance claim. If an inspection reveals improper work, you would have to pay for professional repairs and fines. You could also be denied coverage by your homeowner’s insurance.
Most insurance companies require that only licensed electricians can perform repairs. If your work causes a fire, even years later, the insurance company can refuse damage coverage. You would be responsible for repairs, medical bills, and legal fees.
Unapproved electrical repairs could also lead to liability. You could owe thousands if someone gets hurt because of your DIY approach.
Personal Injury Risks
The risk of personal injury is the most pressing to consider. Electricity is dangerous; it only takes one false move to cause electric shocks, burns, or death. The National Institutes of Health reports an average of 30,000 non-fatal shock injuries each year.
Electrocution is not the only danger with DIY repairs. Falls are also common because many electrical repairs require the use of ladders. Inexperienced individuals may suffer injuries by handling tools and equipment inappropriately.
Our electricians wear proper gear, use insulated tools, and follow lockout/tagout procedures. Most DIYers cannot access appropriate gear and are ill-equipped to handle even minor electrical repairs. Homes with older wiring or hidden damage can pose even greater risks.
Misdiagnosing the Problem
Electrical issues can seem overly simple on the surface. You may see a flickering light or a dead outlet and think of a quick DIY repair solution. Unfortunately, much more involved causes can sometimes be at play.
You might believe that replacing a dead outlet will fix the problem. However, if the underlying issue is an overloaded circuit, it will continue to be dangerous even after you’ve replaced the outlet. Our licensed electricians undergo extensive training to trace repair issues back to the source. We use specialized equipment that helps us fully repair the problem instead of only addressing the symptoms.
Misdiagnosis leads to wasted time and money. Improperly repaired electrical issues can give you false security. Waiting too long to address electrical repair issues properly may result in system failure or the need for complete rewiring.
Lack of Proper Tools
Professional electricians use specialized tools like multimeters, circuit tracers, and voltage testers. The average DIYer may not have these tools or understand how to use them safely.
Attempting electrical repairs without these essential tools is like working in the dark. Even the simplest of electrical projects can go wrong quickly without the right tools for the job.
Hidden Costs of DIY Electrical Repairs
You likely choose DIY repairs to save money — we’ve all been guilty. However, when it comes to electrical work, savings rarely exist. Mistakes lead to increasing costs down the line, and DIYers often end up spending more money than they would have by seeking professional repairs.
For example, if an improperly wired breaker causes appliance damage, you are stuck with the cost of electrical repairs and appliance replacement. Should a fire occur, the costs could rapidly increase.
We often receive calls from DIY customers who need us to fix their mistakes. The corrections are frequently more time-consuming and expensive than if they had called us initially.
The Importance of Licensed Electricians
Licensed electricians undergo many years of training, apprenticeships, and certification examinations. They understand the dangers of electricity and how to troubleshoot and repair all kinds of issues safely.
When you hire one of our electricians, you will benefit from expert knowledge, precise work, and peace of mind. Our electricians have the training to comply with all electrical codes and safety regulations.
Our work passes electrical inspections and ensures your system works safely and effectively. Hiring a professional is not just about fixing a problem; it is about investing in the long-term safety of your home and family.
When to Call a Licensed Electrician
Anytime your electrical system is involved, your safest bet is to hire an electrician. Electrical systems are highly complex and dangerous. Even a simple project can prove hazardous in the wrong hands. You should hire an electrician for the following:
Installing New Outlets and Switches
Adding a new outlet or installing a switch seems overly simple. A DIY approach can become extremely dangerous if the wiring is overloaded or incorrectly installed.
Our electricians will assess the circuit load, ensure safe grounding, and confirm the installation meets all codes. Improper switch or outlet installation can lead to frequently tripped breakers, sparks, burning odors, or fires.
Upgrading Service Panels or Circuit Breakers
Your home’s electrical panel is the most important part of your system. Service panel upgrades are highly dangerous, involving working with live wires. Mistakes during the installation process can lead to serious injuries and code violations.
Rewiring
Rewiring is one of the most intensive electrical jobs and often becomes necessary in older homes. Only licensed electricians have the tools and training to handle such extensive and dangerous work.
Installing Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans
Mounting light fixtures and installing ceiling fans are two other jobs DIYers often think are overly simple. These installs can be complex because the electrical box must support the weight of the fan or fixture. It is best to rely on our professionals to handle the work.
Protect Your Home and Peace of Mind
Calling a professional is more than completing a project; it is about protecting your family and home. Licensed electricians bring years of training, proper equipment, and knowledge to ensure safe electrical repairs. DIY approaches simply are not worth the risk!
The team at Anderson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is full of hard-working professionals who take their jobs seriously. We ensure your complete satisfaction and have a 24/7 emergency service for your convenience. Do not rely on a DIY approach. We offer installation, repairs, and inspections for all electrical components.
Call our licensed electricians at Anderson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric if you need electrical repairs in Mentor.
