4 Things To Consider Before Attempting DIY Electrical Repairs

Attempting to fix many of your electrical items on your own can be extremely rewarding. It can not only give you a strong sense of accomplishment, but also help you save considerable amounts of cash and time on hiring technicians to get the work done. However, DIY electrical repairs aren’t exactly a walk in the park; making the slightest mistake can be immensely hazardous for you, your property, and your entire family. Not to mention that you will end up paying a lot more to get it redone.
So before you feel the urge to try out your MacGyver skills, be sure to ask yourself four questions before approaching DIY electrical repairs.  Are you committed to doing things right? You shouldn’t really fool yourself if the only reason for doing electrical repairs is to save some money. Sure, things can be a lot cheaper when you take the DIY route. But you also should be genuinely interested in learning things the right way and should not settle for something less, or temporary fixes.  We say this is because electrical work is not a trifling matter in the least. Any mistake and your house can end up on fire. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association in 2011, more than 47,000 home structure fires were caused as a result of electrical failure or malfunction, resulting in the deaths of 418 civilians.  So unless you want to take on electrical repairs with the right knowledge and tools, you shouldn’t attempt anything of the sort.
How much do you know? Do you really have a basic understanding of fixing switchboards, circuits, and wires? A thorough understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) in the U.S. or the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) in Canada is a must. All certified technicians and even DIY electricians religiously follow the rules contained in the NEC and CEC as it contains the best and safest of practices, which are always undergoing scrutiny and revision. More importantly, it is derived from years’ worth of experience.  This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to become an expert; it simply means that you should be familiar with the nature and process of the work and know what to apply in different circumstances.
Do you have or need a permit to do the work? If you are serious about considering doing DIY electrical work for the long haul, you may want to check out how you can obtain a ‘Homeowners Electrical Permit’. This is because only licensed and qualified technicians are allowed to install and alter electrical system in homes. However, there are also permits that allow homeowners to install their own electrical systems. Also, minor projects such as replacing a broken electrical device don’t require a permit. Nonetheless, it is still best to check.
Do you have the time? Learning how to fix your electrical devices requires a lot of effort and commitment, something not everyone can make time for. People nowadays barely get to catch up on their quality family time let alone something as consistent as learning DIY electrical repairs. If you can make time for yourself consistently, then you should definitely go for the DIY route.

We are Top Rank Home & Construction Services.  We serve you in the Elk Grove, Galt, Lodi, Stockton and Modesto areas with HAVC, Roofing, Windows, Insulation, Lighting, Concrete, Painting and Construction Services.  Call us at 916-667-3399 or at 209-251-7474 or just visit www.toprankhomeservices.com  We are the team with a plan!

Jeremy Goff is the owner of TopRank Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., a company specializing in providing top-notch HVAC services to ensure comfortable and energy-efficient living environments. Under his leadership, TopRank has become known for its commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and innovative solutions in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

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