It is a common thing for many homeowners to do these things themselves: replace the light bulbs, wrap open wires with electrical tape, and change electrical outlets. There is no problem with doing all these electrical tasks yourself even if you are not a professional. However, you need to make sure that whatever you do involving electricity, you always prioritize your safety.
Regular Electrical Inspection is a Must
Even if you are the best in do-it-yourself electrical installations, you cannot guarantee your safety, especially if your house have not had an electrical inspection in the last 40 years. According several studies, most fires caused by faulty electrical installations are the result of homeowners’ non-compliance to regular electrical inspections. If you are not sure when your home had its last electrical inspection, check the electrical panel. See if there is a sticker with a signature or initial and a date. That is the last time your house has undergone an electrical inspection. What if there is no sticker on the electrical panel? Use the age of your house as your point of reference.
Use Only the Right Electrical Materials
At first glance, working on a few DIY electrical installations seem easy enough. However, when you mess up with a live wire, you are going to appreciate how professional electricians risk their lives to do electrical tasks. That is, if you are still alive after that. Electrical installation Actually, the professionals do not “risk” their lives because they know the safety rules on electrical installations, such as using only the right electrical materials.
For instance, if you are working on an electrical wiring project, make sure you use the right wire and connect the right part of the wire to where it belongs. If not, either your device will not work or you will cause a major electrical problem like fire or electrocution. Similarly, a wrong choice of socket will not only affect how your computer or refrigerator works but also the safety of using these devices. That is why before you start any electrical installation task, consult the manual for the particular electrical device you are working on. You will find in the manual the right number of socket, outlet, bolts, and wires that the device needs.
Always Turn Off the Power Supply
Wherever and whenever electricity is involved, it is better to be safe than sorry. Turn off your power supply when you are doing any electrical installations, no matter how minor they are. Even if you are not working with a damaged outlet or installing a new bulb, turning off the power supply is the best thing you can do to ensure your safety.
Check the Electrical Materials’ Safety
Just because a wire is brand new does not mean it is 100% safe. Make sure it is safe by checking any tear or wear on the wire. You do not want to be shocked, electrically, before you realize that your brand new wire has some rat bites. Checking is always important regardless of the electrical materials you are going to use for electrical installations.
If you are not sure you can do your electrical installations 100% safely, it is better to call a professional electrician and have him do the job. Of course, you will have to pay him for the job, but think of it as worthwhile investment — you do not have to worry about getting electrocuted and you can be sure the electrical installations are done properly and safely.