No wonder that all those DIY television shows have become such a staple of many people's lives; they appeal to the weekend warrior (not to mention the weekday wunderkinds) in all of us.
But when it comes to electrical repair, it pays to harness the enthusiasm—at least long enough to ask yourself a few pointed questions. Look no further than the ambitious homeowner who recently installed extravagant lighting and dimmers but failed to safeguard them—in his deluxe, super-sized shower.
Even if you think you're not bound to make a similar mistake in judgment, it pays to take stock of your abilities and limitations—and to be honest and realistic while doing so. So ask yourself:
Do I enjoy doing DIY projects?
It might sound like an unusual question to list first, but think about it: Like anything else in life, if you don't enjoy electrical repairs—or don't think you will—chances are good that you may give up or (worse) take shortcuts in getting the job done. And there are no worthwhile shortcuts when it comes to electrical repairs. At the same time, rest assured: No one can possibly be suited to every single household task. If electrical repairs aren't “your thing,” defer to an expert right away.
Do I have the necessary knowledge and skills required to complete this DIY electrical repair?
Popular Mechanics points out that installing dimmer switches and replacing ceiling lights are the types of straightforward jobs that many DIYers can handle (as long as they remember to turn off the electricity first). But extending electrical circuits (or adding new ones) usually require the services of an experienced and licensed electrician.
Do I have the proper equipment to execute the electrical repair safely?
If you must use a new tool or device, take the time to read the instruction manual and proceed only if you feel absolutely confident in doing so.
Will I know how to address an unexpected situation or problem?
Even “minor” electrical repairs require a basic knowledge of electricity and electrical components, and you'd be wise to “expect the unexpected” with any electrical repair.
Is the electrical repair governed by local building codes?
If so, you might require a permit, as well as the services of a licensed professional.
Do I understand the consequences of a repair-gone-wrong?
Put another way, how risky is the electrical repair? No one wants to be dramatic, but electrical shocks, fires and even explosions are the obvious consequences of botched electrical repairs. They're called “accidents” for a reason: Because they were unexpected outcomes of jobs undertaken by well-intentioned people.
What is my backup plan for a repair-gone-wrong?
In other words, who will I call to help me if I find I've gotten in over my head?
The man who installed those life-threatening switches in his shower probably owes his life to a sharp-eyed electrician who was surveying work done in an adjoining bedroom—and who promptly disengaged the lighting and dimmers before anyone was hurt.
In the end, it's worth remembering that some tasks are best left to the professionals who have the skills, experience and enthusiasm for electrical repairs. Chief among them is Experts In Your Home, which have been providing expert electrician services to northern California since 1948, including Chico, Paradise & surrounding areas.
While we applaud the DIY spirit, we also know that it often doesn't take much to send an electrical repair into an unexpected tailspin. So let us be the wing man to your weekend warrior (or weekday wunderkind). Together, we'll get the job done right.
Next time you need an electrical repair done contact the Chico electricians at Experts In Your Home.
Always call an electrician to handle these 7 jobs (FREE download):
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