With so many instructional videos available on the internet it is easy for home and business owners to be lulled into a false sense of security, especially when it comes to DIY electrical projects. According to the knowledgeable experts at Peterkin Electric, it is never a good idea to attempt any type of electrical work unless you have professional training and experience. While simple tasks like removing and adding a switch plate can be accomplished fairly easily, wiring and electrical work are much more complex with a multitude of safety concerns that need to be carefully considered. Performing electrical repairs incorrectly can be extremely dangerous, putting you and your home at considerable risk.
DIY Electrical Repair Projects to Avoid
Electrical Switch and Outlet Repair: Why do electrical outlets fail? You may be surprised to learn that the majority of electrical outlet failures are caused by wiring issues. For example if your household appliances are rated for copper wiring and the wiring in your home is aluminum you could be putting your home at risk by creating a fire hazard. Contact your Peterkin Electric electrician to replace your existing wiring with copper.
Hot or Buzzing Electrical Outlets: If you hear a buzzing sound coming from your electrical outlet, or if you touch the outlet cover and it feels hot, contact your Peterkin Electric specialist for immediate assistance. There are a number of problems that can create this issue and all of them have serious consequences if left unchecked. Reasons for buzzing outlets include loose wire connections, a bad breaker, or reversed polarity all of which can leave your home or business at risk for an electrical fire.
Ceiling Fan Installation: The majority of ceiling fan installations are wired into the existing wiring in your home which makes installing a new one fairly simple. However if you want to install a new ceiling fan where there wasn’t one previously you should schedule an appointment with your Peterkin Electric professional. It is imperative that the new wiring is completed according to the local building codes.
Outdoor Electrical Wiring: Your outdoor outlets require both ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and weather protection to function correctly. Even if you are only interested in adding a single outlet, it is always prudent to arrange for professional installation of a dedicated circuit. If you attempt this yourself, you may leave your home open to a risk of fire. Also keep in mind that your home owners insurance may not cover damage caused by DIY electrical repairs.
Installations Around Water: Working around water and electricity can be a deadly combination. In fact hot tubs in particular have their own set of safety codes. Your Peterkin Electric expert will ensure that these guidelines are followed correctly to ensure that you and your family are kept safe from harm. Items including flexible connections, GFCIs, emergency shut off systems and correct bonding are extremely important to the installation process.
Electrical Services in Laguna Woods, Santa Ana, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Irvine, Lake Forest & Orange County, California
To learn more about electrical inspections, repairs and new fixture installations, contact the knowledgeable experts at Peterkin Electric today.