If you’re a homeowner, it’s likely you’ll need to make home electrical repairs at some point. Electrical repairs can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can safely fix many common issues yourself.
Before attempting any home electrical repairs, always turn off the power to the affected area. This means shutting off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse controlling the area. Double-check to make sure there’s no electricity flowing to the area by using a voltage tester.
One common electrical repair is replacing a broken light switch. This is a straightforward repair that can be done in just a few steps. After turning off the power, remove the cover plate and unscrew the switch from the electrical box. Make a note of which wires are attached to which screws, then detach the wires and connect them to the corresponding screws on the new switch. Screw the new switch into place and replace the cover plate. It’s that simple!
Home Electrical Repairs
As a homeowner, home electrical repairs can seem overwhelming and often require the assistance of a professional electrician. However, there are a few repairs that you can easily tackle on your own with just a few tools and some basic electrical knowledge. Here are the most common home electrical repairs you can do yourself:
- REPLACING A LIGHT SWITCH You don’t have to be an electrician to replace a light switch. This simple repair can be completed in less than an hour. Turn off the power to the switch, and remove the switch plate. Unfasten the switch from the box, and disconnect the wires. Connect the wires to the new switch, and secure it back into the box. Replace the switch plate, and turn the power back on.
- INSTALLING CEILING FANS Installing a new ceiling fan is a great DIY project that can enhance the aesthetic of any room. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, turn off the power, and test the wires with a voltage tester. In most cases, you’ll need to install a support brace and a fan-rated box. Then, connect the wires, attach the blades, and turn the power back on.
- REPLACING AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET If your electrical outlet is worn or damaged, replacing it is a simple repair that requires just a few basic tools. Before removing it, turn off the power, and test the wires with a voltage tester. Remove the faceplate, unfasten the outlet from the box, disconnect the wires, and connect them to the new outlet. Secure the outlet back into the box, replace the faceplate, and turn the power back on.
- FIXING FAULTY LIGHT FIXTURES Faulty light fixtures can be annoying, but they’re usually an easy fix. Before attempting to fix it, turn off the power to the fixture, and remove the cover to access the wiring. Tighten any loose connections, replace burned-out bulbs, and check the switch for defects. If the fixture is beyond repair, replacing it with a new one can be done with relative ease.
While these DIY home electrical repairs can save you both time and money, it’s important to know your limits. Always consult a professional electrician if you run into a problem you’re unsure how to handle.
When to Call a Professional for Home Electrical Repairs
Being a homeowner comes with various responsibilities, including the upkeep of your property’s electrical system. While some repairs may be minor enough to handle on your own, others should be left to a licensed professional. Here are a few situations where it’s best to call a professional for home electrical repairs:
- Flickering lights: If your lights are flickering, it could be a sign of a loose or faulty electrical connection. This problem could be isolated to one outlet, but if it’s happening throughout your home, you should call a professional as soon as possible.
- Burning smell: If you ever smell burning coming from your outlets, switches, or appliances, immediately turn off the power supply and call an electrician. This could be a sign of an electrical fire, and it’s best to get it checked out immediately.
- Constantly tripping circuit breakers: If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, there is a chance that you’re overloading the circuit. However, if this happens frequently, it could be due to a more serious underlying issue that requires the attention of a professional.
- Failsafe: If you do not feel confident in your ability to safely perform home electrical repairs, such as rewiring a switch or fixture, it is probably best to consult a licensed electrician. Taking risks could result in serious injuries or property damage.
By knowing when to call a professional for home electrical repairs, you can ensure that your electrical system remains safe and up-to-code. Always remember that safety should be your top priority, and if you’re not confident in your abilities to fix a problem, it’s always best to call a professional.
