So You Think You Can Repair: Electrical Edition

Presented by Enercare.

So, you want to make some electrical repairs. We’ve all been there, and we say, always start small and never bite off more than you can chew. It’s easy to underestimate the size of an electrical project as a new homeowner, especially after binge watching a series of home-renovation shows. Even though there are a lot of resources out there, and you may also be a quick learner, there’s a limit on what the average homeowner can anticipate.

Whether you want to install a new switch or a new outlet, or even connect a new appliance, it seems simple enough. The trick is to do your research. Let’s take installing a new switch for example. You’ve got to figure out the types of switches in your home, the difference between three and four-way switches, warning signs of a defective switch, the markings, the correct height, the meaning of a buzzing sound—the complete 101. Once you’ve learned the fundamentals, you can confidently assess your capacity to take on the project.

Let’s say that you’re feeling good about your capabilities and are about to dive in. We’d like to go over a few common do-it-yourself mistakes so you can avoid unpleasant situations like short circuiting, electric shock, electrocution, or starting a fire. First time DIYers often forget that wire insulation has to be stripped and usually, this leads to them cutting the wires too short. This can then lead to poor connections and hazardous results. We recommend leaving about three to six inches of slack from outside the junction box. Next is overlooking the importance of electrical boxes. They exist to contain connections and protect the wiring from outside damage, so they don’t ignite drywall. Choose a size that makes sense for the project and avoid shoving too many wires into it. Speaking of wires, choosing the right gauge which refers to the size of a wire is key. Select the proper gauge and you’ll ensure that the connection will be secure. If you select the improper gauge, your wires could overheat or short. Finally, fuses. If a fuse blows in your home, or if a breaker trips, it could be a sign of an underlying problem and an electrical fire could be started. After you’ve replaced the fuse or reset the breaker, it’s a good idea to hire a licensed electrician to inspect the circuit.

Many homeowners prefer do-it-yourself projects because feeling handy, feels good. However, when it comes to electricity, there’s a good chance you’ll need a licensed, certified electrician—for safety reasons and to avoid turning a small fix into a big problem. Choosing a professional you can trust can be daunting and that’s where Enercare comes in. They understand that every home is different and specific electrical components may be required to fix it. Which is why their electricians are equipped to resolve any issue, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing expert help is just a phone call away. Talk to them about their electrical repair services and Electrical Protection Plan so you can safely and conveniently leave home wiring to the experts.