Do-it-yourself projects around the house are great. Not only can they keep you busy in a healthy and creative way, but they can also save you money and add serious value to your home. When they’re done correctly, that is.

But there are certain DIY tasks that no homeowner should attempt without at least a little bit of experience, such as electrical installations. Even with some DIY experience under your belt, there’s plenty of room for error when it comes to electrical work around the house.

Here’s why it’s best to leave the DIY electrical projects to the professionals.

1. Fire Hazards

It really doesn’t take much for an electrical fire to erupt. The risk with doing your own electrical work is that electrical fires are unlike regular fires — you can’t just throw water on it and hope for the best. This can result in major electrical shortages throughout your home, not to mention electrocution for anyone nearby.

A few of the basic electrical faux pas that most DIYers tend to make and pose the greatest fire risk include:

  • Replacing the wrong light bulb and using the wrong wattage
  • Using the wrong size fuse or amperage, i.e. replacement with a fuse that’s too large poses a real fire risk
  • Improper electrical rewiring that can result in massive short-circuiting and a fire risk
  • Faulty switch and outlet installation

All in all, if you don’t have hands-on electrical experience or knowledge, don’t DIY your electrical work. That’s what the professionals are there for.

2. Electrocution

There’s a very real risk that you could electrocute yourself and others when doing your own electrical work. While minor electrical shocks may not hurt, serious electrocution spells otherwise.

This risk becomes even greater when you work with high voltage areas. Electrocution can result in third-degree burns, nerve damage, ventricular fibrillation, and more. Even if you turn off your main power switch, there is still room for error and electrocution, depending on the project you’re working on.

Don’t take the risk.

3. Fines and Penalties 

This is another pertinent reason you want to hire the help of a professional. They can ensure all of your electrical work meets local standards in terms of permits and building codes.

If you choose to DIY your electrical work, you put yourself at risk of jeopardizing your home’s electrical safety code. This could result in serious violations and fines — some as much as $100,000 depending on the state you live in!

4. Expensive and Unnecessary Repairs 

At the end of the day, if you don’t really know what you’re doing, how can you guarantee that your electrical work is correct? This leaves so much room for error down the line and a mountain of unnecessary repairs and expenses.

You can save yourself the headache and the extra pennies by outsourcing a professional to get it all done for you.

5. Keep the Rest of Your Family Safe

Electrical work includes important components called ground fault interrupters –GFI. What these components do is protect both you and your family members from electrocution and fire risks inside the home.

A GFI is a type of sensor that prevents electrocution and fires from happening due to a faulty connection or one that’s exposed to moisture. They’re most common in areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, and outdoor outlets.

The reality is that most homeowners are unaware of these GFI components and could replace them with standard outlets, increasing the risk of electrocution and fire.

Leave the Electrical Installations to Us

Don’t be tempted into a DIY electrical project. If you’re in need of electrical installations, modifications, upgrades, or repairs throughout your home, White Electric offers quality expertise you can trust.

Take a look at the services we offer and get in touch with our team to schedule your electrical work today.