15 DIY Electrical Fixes That Put Your Home at Risk
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There are many benefits to taking on DIY projects around the home; they can be rewarding, they’re usually cost effective and they’re usually fun. But while small jobs can be dangerous when done without expertise, electrical fixes can be even worse.
And many homeowners don’t realize that one wrong move can put their entire electrical system at risk for fire hazards or other safety issues. Before you do any electrical work yourself, you need to know what you shouldn’t be doing yourself.
Replace a Circuit Breaker Without the Necessary Knowledge
Your home’s electrical system is a series of circuit breakers and if you replace one incorrectly, it can cause serious problems. If, for example, you don’t know how your panel works, you could overload circuits or damage something. They can also lead to fire hazards as amateur replacements. It’s best left in the hands of your licensed electrician to replace or upgrade your breaker, as this can result in costly or hazardous outcomes.
Installing Your new Outlets or Switches
It’s easy to install a new outlet or switch, but it’s more complicated than most DIYers realize. Loose or incorrectly installed connections can spark, or worse yet, cause an electrical fire. It can also miswire your appliances and leave you prone to electric shock. If you don’t want to take that risk, leave this job to a professional who can ensure safety and electrical code compliance.
Fixing Damaged Wiring
If you notice damaged wiring in your home and want to try and patch it up with tape or even cover it, that is a big no no. Unfortunately, you can’t handle damaged wiring without expertise and it can carry significant risks. Temporary fix can cause over heat, short circuit, or even fires. Wiring needs to be assessed and replaced properly by an electrician to avoid dangerous events.
Fixing a Blown Fuse
A blown fuse is easy to replace, but you run the risk of making things worse if you don’t figure out why it blew. Blown fuses typically signify a broader problem (overloaded circuit, bad wiring) than it seems. Replacing the fuse is only a temporary fix for the root cause, which may in turn do further damage. If you want to stay safe, get your system inspected by an electrician.
Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
Upgrading an electrical panel is a big job and you need to know what you are doing. Many homeowners believe you can save money by doing it yourself, but DIY panel upgrades are serious safety hazards. An incorrectly upgraded panel will spark, overload circuits, or might shut down a whole system. To do this complex job, it should be done by a professional.
Outdoor Electrical Systems
Electrical work outside is different from work inside your home, and that means you’ll be exposed to the elements. Outdoor wiring mistakes can result in shock, short circuit, or equipment failure. Small problems can quickly become big problems with rain and moisture. But when it comes to weatherproofing and securing outdoor connections, they know how to do it safely.
Replacing Light Fixtures in Old Wiring Systems
If you have an older home, you may not be able to use your new light fixtures with the wiring. Overloaded circuits, sparking, or short circuiting can happen with these are DIY replacements. Old wiring can be especially dangerous to handle, as it may not have modern safety features, and the hands themselves become more dangerous to work with as you age. Any upgrades are best done with an electrician’s help, before you start because, let’s face it, you can’t afford to get electrocuted while you’re trying to get your home ready.
Handling Exposed Wiring
A simple solution to exposed wires and is to fix them with electrical tape or similar quick fixes. But these DIY patches don’t protect against shocks or potential fires. Temporary fixes can only make the problem worse and exposed wiring. Exposed wires can be safely and permanently dealt with by a professional.
Extra Wiring for Appliances
To avoid paying for professional installation fees, some homeowners decide to add wiring when installing heavy duty appliances. According to Wiremaster Electric, wiring incorrectly added to appliances like dryers or air conditioners can overload circuits, overheat or even cause a fire. The new wiring is guaranteed to meet code and to safely handle the power demands, which is something only a qualified electrician will do.
DIY Ceiling Fan Installations
Installing ceiling fans is often simple looking, but you need to make sure it’s connected securely to the electrical. If a fan is poorly installed, it can loose or the wiring may not be to standard, and it can become a safety hazard. Incorrect installations can also put motor strain, which will wear the fan out faster. Professional installation will make certain your fan is safe and solid.
Trying to Replace Old Wiring
It may seem like a simple way to modernize your home to replace old wiring, like aluminum or knob and tube wiring. Unfortunately, outdated wiring can be very dangerous to replace, without proper knowledge. Electrical fires are a result of mistakes, or damage to other parts in your home’s system can occur. Let the experts deal with older wiring types in a safe manner.
Creating DIY Extension Cords
It is also possible to make your own extension cords, but sometimes when people do, they can end up with overloaded or overheated cords. Commercial extension cords are built to safety standards, but homemade extension cords are not. That increases the risk of fire. If you need an extension cord, it’s safer to buy one that meets industry standards.
Removing a Light Switch or Outlet
Unknowingly removing a switch or outlet can be more dangerous than it appears. If you pull it out the wrong way, you can damage the wiring behind the wall that can result in short circuits or exposed wires. If you are removing an electrical feature, it’s best to have a professional who can do it safely.
Going to the Main Electrical Line
DIYers want to tap into the main electrical line to add new circuits and outdoor lighting. Severe injury, electric shock, or electrocution can follow any mishandling of the main line. Certified electricians are the only people who should work with high voltage lines. It’s never worth the risk trying this on your own.
Installing Unapproved Electrical Components
Some homeowners buy off brand or non approved electrical components to save money. Unfortunately, components that don’t meet industry standards can fail quickly, overheat, or be a fire hazard. All of which works safely and efficiently when using approved and tested components. Use only components that comply with your area’s safety standards.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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