DIY Installations – What You Should Know!

Electrical installation is a serious matter.  And while there are professional electricians who are paid to do the job they have spent 4 or more years training in, some homeowners see DIY as a way to save a dollar or two.  By all means, paint your own walls or tile the floors, but when it comes to electricity, leave that to a qualified contractor.

The reality is that often a DIY activity does not, in fact, save you money in every instance.  For example, if your electrical was done wrong and your home got a fire, your insurance would not cover you.  Did you save any dollars in that case?   Everyone thinks “it won’t happen to me” but that is not being realistic.   Incorrect electrical work can cause damage to the whole electrical system. This will effect to calling electricians to rectify faulty wirings and other electrical rectification.

Here is a list of the do’s and don’ts that you should probably know when it comes to doing electrical installations all by yourself or DIY.

Do’s

Hire some professional advice.

Even if it’s to discuss your needs and plan as you want to purchase your own fittings.  They may (or may not) be able to help you decide if bronze, white or silver will look better, but they can guide you on options and ideas of what to look at, particularly for the space you are considering.  They may even have access to websites or catalogues where they can get some better than RRP pricing.  It can’t hurt to ask.  They know where to source products, especially better quality products that don’t just barely meet the minimum standard but will last that bit longer.

Be careful when purchasing online.

If you choose to buy your electrical items through online shopping, be cautious and look for the right safety markings.  Do not become a victim of unusually cheap or auctioned items on any online marketplaces.  Particularly ensure you are buying products which are suitable for (and thoroughly meet) Australian standards.  Again, by talking to your qualified contractor first, s/he can guide you in this regard.

Don’ts

Do not go over your limitations.

There are minor electrical jobs that can be done by ordinary homeowners such as changing light bulbs.  Too much more than that, and you should call your local trusted electrician.   One of the most common mistakes homeowners do is cleaning, installing or repairing electrical items without unplugging it.  Appliances with damaged cords should not be used.  Many people also mistakenly believe that rubber-soled shoes can protect them from electrical shock in any hazardous electrical conditions.  In addition, most people carelessly use extension cords that are not purposely designed for outdoor use to power objects outside the house.  It is also not ideal to keep resetting a breaker that trips.  A breaker that trips right after resetting means it has a potential electrical problem that needs to be taken care of.  Resetting it repeatedly can actually cause a fire.  When it comes to electrical fires, do not use water to put them off, instead use the chemical fire extinguisher.

Never ever mix water and electricity.

This is quite a common sense matter which should be taken with utmost importance. There are strict rules when it comes to installing lighting fixtures near bath, sink, and pools, so make sure that you call on help from professionals unless you know what all the IP ratings mean.

Refrain from working at heights.

Aside from electrical shock, a fall is as dangerous. Worst is, a hard fall after an electrical shock is mostly fatal.

Do not ask registered electricians to certify your work.

It is not part of any professional electrician to sign off and verify electrical jobs that they have not done or installed.

There are still so many don’ts when it comes to electrical works that need to be taken seriously.   Being a DIY homeowner can be satisfying and save you a few dollars … do that where it’s safe and you have the skills.  Remember your home is often your greatest asset, so be sure to look after it, treat it well, maintain it and keep it safe.

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Read some Top Energy Consumption Culprits here.