As any homeowner can attest to, saving money is always a top priority, but not at the cost of your safety. Electrical repairs are one of those situations where the work is always better left to a professional.

Not only are the services complex, but also they can put your home and health at risk. Electrical sparks are one the leading causes of house fires across the country, and in many cases, it stems from faulty repairs or installations.

While you may be able to do minor fixes around your home, your electrical system may be well beyond your skills. It’s important to understand the dangers of these repairs, so you can better protect your home and family.

What’s an Electrical Hazard?

When you consider the risks associated with an electrical repair, you’ll often think about sparks or shock. While some can be small enough to startle you, under certain conditions, an electrical spark can be large enough to lead to a visit to the hospital. Seven other electrical hazards include:

• Dead or hot outlets.
• Fried electronics including computers, TVs, and more.
• Overloaded electrical panel.
• Fire damage.
• Damaged appliances.
• Roof damage from ceiling fans.
• Fluctuating power levels and lighting issues.

Usually, an issue can start small, like flickering lights, but can progressively get worse. For some homeowners, this can be a serious as damaged appliances ranging from an oven to your fire and carbon monoxide detectors, creating a dangerous storm in the event of a fire.

Additionally, when working with electrical systems, you always run the risk of self-harm. Without the right equipment, you can come in direct contact with high voltage electricity, which is always a cause for concern. For your own peace of mind, you should always work with a trusted professional electrician.

The Tools of The Trade: Electrical Safety Equipment

Another important reason to work with a professional is because they have the necessary tools to perform detailed and accurate repairs in your home.

This can range anywhere from wire locators, which can limit the amount of drywall damage needed to access wires, to a voltage meter to determine which wires, if any, are live. This protects the contractor and also your personal belongings.

It’s also common for professionals to use insulated gloves, safety glasses, and fire retardant clothing, in the event that something does go wrong. Many of these supplies are available at your local hardware store, and should definitely be used if you plan to perform any work on your own.

As a general rule of thumb, you should at the very least have a voltage meter, which can warn you whether or not a wire is live before you start working on it. Working with a professional electrician not only provides you with peace of mind but also it guarantees that your services are done to the highest standard and in compliance with any local codes or restrictions.

At Elite Electric & Air we are your Port St. Lucie electrical experts. With highly skilled and trained staff, fully stocked trucks, and professionals that take the time to explain any work done in your home, you’ll have top-quality work you can count on. So before you try your next DIY project, consider this blog, and be sure to send it to your friends and family so they also avoid any mishaps in their home.