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Avoid These Dangerous DIY Home Electrical Repairs

Man getting electric shock connecting broken electrical cables at home. Electricity DIY repairs danger.
Humans are capable of many incredible things, but nobody is an expert at everything. It takes years of training and experience to master something as complicated as electrical installation, repair, and replacement. So, it's always smart to count on experts to help you with the home electrical projects best left off your DIY list

Here Are the 5 Home Repairs You Should Never Do Yourself

Sometimes, we try to be so self-sufficient that we forget to consider what projects we shouldn't do ourselves. And when it comes to electrical work, even the simplest mistake can lead to electrical damage to your devices, electrocution, or even cause a fire. Make sure you leave these dangerous home repairs to professionals:

  1. Wiring Upgrades: Whether your home is old or new, modifying or replacing the electrical wiring in your home can be extremely dangerous. Wiring your home incorrectly could have serious consequences, like fire damage, or a failed inspection (when you sell your home). It is just not worth the risk and could wind up costing you a lot of money to correct. The best and safest option here is to ask a licensed electrician to upgrade or replace your home wiring.

  1. Electrical Panel Work: Keeping up with new technology can require electrical panel upgrades. It's your electrical panel's job to stop electricity from overloading and destroying the wiring in your home. As you continue to bring more electronics into your home, your electrical panel may not be able to keep up. This can result in tripped circuit breakers and can even pose a fire hazard. The difference between a repair vs. a replacement is difficult to determine and install for any DIYer. Count on your local electrician for advice and service about upgrading your electrical panel.

  1. Circuit Installation and Updates: If your family is constantly arguing over who gets to use the only open plug in a room, chances are your circuits need to be upgraded. Having breakers that frequently trip or cut power means that your circuits don't have enough electrical capacity. This is not only frustrating; it could prove costly if you work from home and rely on office electronics to remain up and running. Your local Mr. Electric can expand your home's electrical capacity to meet your growing demand.

  1. Fan Installation: As simple as it may seem, ceiling and exhaust fan installation is a meticulous and potentially dangerous process. Wiring is always dangerous to handle, but even minor mistakes can cause problems later. A gap between your ceiling and the fan can lead to a constant vibrating noise. Exhaust vents that are not properly sealed can release fumes back into your home and promote mold growth. And installing the wrong unit for your home or current wiring system can be a huge safety issue.

  1. Electrical Service Upgrade: Increasing your home electrical service could be the key to powering all your electronics and appliances without interruption. Upgrading your electrical service, wiring, and/or circuit panel can help reduce and, in many cases, eliminate tripping circuit breakers, and flickering lights and address the power demands of the entire family. Contact a licensed electrician to coordinate this upgrade with your electrical service provider.

Related Topic: What to Do When Your Circuit Breaker Trips

Other Reasons You Shouldn't DIY Home Electrical Projects

Aside from the safety hazards posed by DIY electrical home improvements, you should also consider the variables of professional installation and repair. Small errors may not be obvious initially but can eventually lead to significant damage and greater expense later. Mr. Electric is equipped with the latest tools, experience, and expert knowledge to ensure your electrical work is done right the first time.

Home improvements can be extremely frustrating and become costly if the job is not done correctly. When dealing with electrical DIY, not done right means a lot could go wrong. Our service professionals see beyond your current electrical issues to ensure your home is operating safely.

Do not risk your safety by attempting to DIY home electrical projects. The licensed professionals at Mr. Electric will make sure the job is done right the first time Schedule an appointment online or call for all your electrical work needs.

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About Mr. Electric

Established in 1994, Mr. Electric® is a global franchise organization providing electrical installation and repair services. Recognized by Entrepreneur magazine among its “Franchise 500,” Mr. Electric franchisees provide these services to both residential and commercial customers at almost 200 locations worldwide. Mr. Electric is a subsidiary of the Neighborly® family of service franchises.
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    Services vary by location. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises. New Customers only. Limited time offer. Valid for new and existing tenants and homeowners. No cash value. Not valid for diagnostic fees. Coupon expires 12/31/2024. Coupon must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offer and/or discounts. Valid only at participating locations. Locally owned and independently operated franchise companies. Other restrictions may apply. ©2023 Dwyer Franchising LLC. 1010 N. University Parks Dr., Waco, TX 76707.

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