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You cannot receive a shock unless you have an electric affinity for that which shocks you.
– Henry David Thoreau.
Saving money on a home project by doing it yourself always seems like a good idea, but when it comes to DIY electrical projects, one small mistake can leave you seriously injured. When it comes to electricity, 9 out of 10 homes make major electrical mistakes that cost them more extra money and hassle to get fixed.
Is it worth it? We’ve asked our professional electricians to share their top 10 mistakes of DIY electrical projects and we’ll let you decide!
Cutting your wires too short in electrical projects
Making wires too short is a common wiring mistake for DIYers and leads to the potential for poor connections. You’ll want to allow a little slack within the electrical box to give them some breathing room, whilst ensuring you don’t give too much.
Using different wire gauges
Evaluate the size of the wire in a circuit and use the same gauge for new wiring. Using different wire gauges will potentially cause overloading to the system.
Not installing GFCI in bathrooms and kitchen
GFCI stands for ‘ground fault circuit interrupter’ and when it detects any kind of power imbalance will automatically cut the power source. Without installing these you’re making yourself susceptible to nasty electrical shocks!
Not replacing old, rusted fuses
Make it a habit to replace your fuses at scheduled intervals. They’re accumulating rust and can become faulty over time. Poor connections are a result of rusting in fuses.
Not wearing the correct protective gear.
Electricity is no joke! Always wear the correct protective gear while dealing with electricity. Even if it seems like a ‘small’ job or running power outdoors for an impromptu barbeque. Consider your footwear, gloves, and if you require any protective eye wear.
Using an extension cord as permanent wiring solution
An extension cord is a great temporary solution if you have too few outlets, but they’re not built for permanent, daily use. If you require their use for something like garage door openers or air conditioning units, then those installations need to be correctly wired by a professional, licensed electrician.
Leaving your cabling unprotected
If your cables occupy areas where your family, friends, and any pets can touch or damage them, then you’ll need to protect or cover them to negate any accidents.
Not planning enough time for your electrical project
It’s important that you’re taking time to correctly plan your electrical project and not rushing it. Accounting for enough time to finish it safely is important when you’re dealing with electricity. Safety is a priority.
Connecting wires incorrectly
Possibly the most common electrical error made by beginners. When connection wires, make sure that you’re observing polarity. Red wires should always be connected to each other, as well as black wires.
Deciding not to hire a professional electrician because you ‘think’ that you can do it yourself.
If you’re not confident, then stop yourself right there. Unfortunately, no amount of YouTube tutorials can set you up for success for a big electrical project. Making electrical connections require adequate training and courses to get right the first time. If you’re not sure of what you’re doing, don’t risk it as you might get yourself electrocuted!
Begin your electrical project with peace of mind with our fully trained professional and reliable electricians. We’re locally owned and operated and take pride in the community that we serve. We’re highly skilled in all aspects of electrical services, call our friendly team today on (303) 521 7827.
No matter urgent any electrical repairs seem, it’s never okay to attempt to handle them on your own. Trying to take care of electrical problems without professional training is extremely dangerous. If you or someone else aren’t hurt during your attempt, there’s still a chance that you’ve left something undone that poses a huge risk to you, your home, or your family. In fact, faulty electrical wiring is the number one cause of house fires in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. So in order to make sure that your home is safe, rely on a professional for any electrical services.
