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Electrical Repair: Don't DIY, Stay Safe & Call a Pro

Home > QRC Blog > Electrical Repair: Don’t DIY, Stay Safe & Call a Pro

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Many Winston-Salem homeowners are DIY experts who can handle various upgrades and repairs throughout their house. That said, when it comes to flickering lights, scorched outlets, outdated wiring, and other electrical problems, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. DIY electrical repair carries serious risks for both your health and finances, but an electrician ensures the safety and performance of your system.

The Hidden Dangers of DIY Electrical Work

Electrical systems are complex, and a small slip-up can result in a serious hazard that puts yourself and others around you at risk. The primary dangers associated with DIY electrical repairs include:

  • Electrical shocks: Contact with exposed wires causes electrical shocks. While some shocks may be relatively harmless, they always pose the risk of serious injury or fatality.
  • Electrical fire hazards: Electrical wiring problems are at the root of  most of the 51,000 electrical fires and $1.3 billion in property damages that occur each year, largely due to arcing from improper installation.
  • Escalated damage: Even small mistakes can lead to more extensive damage to your electrical system.
  • Code violations: Electrical work must comply with local building codes, and many projects require permits. DIY repairs often fail to meet these standards, leading to unsafe conditions, fines, and other complications.
  • Voided insurance policies: Home insurance policies typically require a licensed professional to complete most electrical work. DIY repairs may void your coverage.

Recognizing the Warning Signs: Electrical Problems That Demand Professional Help

While handy homeowners may tackle certain repairs, most electrical problems require the expertise and safety knowledge of a licensed electrician. Don’t hesitate to call an electrician if you notice these warning signs:

Flickering lights

Light fixtures typically only use a minor amount of electricity. Flickering or dimming indicates an overloaded circuit, damaged panel components, or a faulty circuit.

Persistent circuit breaker trips

Breakers trip and fuses blow to disrupt the electrical flow and protect the circuit from overloading. Occasional trips are normal and expected, but persistent tripping suggests an underlying problem that’s overloading the circuit.

Burning smells or scorch marks

Outlets that are warm to the touch or have burning smells and scorch marks have faulty wiring. Stop using the outlet or to switch the breaker off until a professional electrician can diagnose the cause and tackle the repairs.

Strange noises

Buzzing or crackling sounds stem from frayed wires, loose outlets or switches, and other problems.

Outdated wiring

Aluminum, knob and tube, and cloth wiring are outdated wiring types. Although not inherently unsafe, these wiring types are far more likely to cause overheating and fires without proper installation, modifications, or upkeep.

Excessive extension cords

Relying on numerous extension cords means your outlets are too few or far apart and may increase the likelihood of overloaded circuits and other problems.

Common Electrical Issues: When DIY is NOT the Answer

Many electrical problems require professional attention to safely resolve. The following electrical concerns are common issues, but they definitely aren’t DIY-friendly.

Complex wiring

Rewiring is a complicated task that involves understanding electrical codes and safety regulations. For example, knob and tube wiring has specific requirements, and any deviation from these standards poses serious risks of electrical fire. Whether installing new wiring, replacing or repairing isolated sections of damaged wiring, or replacing outdated wiring throughout your home, leave this task to the pros. 

Circuit and outlet installation

Modifying or adding circuits requires advanced knowledge of electrical load calculations and safety standards. Refer to an electrician for additional or upgraded wiring and circuits.

Electrical panel upgrades and repairs

Electrical panel upgrades, repairs, or replacements are common in older homes that need to modernize electrical capacity for compatibility with current appliances and electronic devices, but these jobs aren’t DIY projects. Working on an electrical panel involves handling high voltages and complex configurations, and errors as such have serious consequences.

GFCI installation

Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets and breakers detect and disrupt the flow of electricity when they detect abnormalities that may lead to ground faults. Incorrect installation leaves your household vulnerable to ground fault risks.

The True Cost of DIY Electrical Work

DIY electrical work isn’t just hazardous — despite seeming more cost-effective, DIY repairs may cost you more in the long term.

Seemingly simple fixes may lead to further damage to your electrical system, appliances, or devices if not addressed properly. For example, incorrectly handling a wiring repair may result in surges that damage the connected appliances or electronics by melting components and frying circuits, leading to costly repairs, early replacements, and warranty issues.

Home insurance protects you from various risks and costs but usually under the condition of responsible and safe behavior. If your repairs don’t comply with the insurance policy, you’re financially vulnerable in case of electrical accidents and damage. Likewise, failing an electrical inspection or not obtaining a permit for the repairs may result in hefty fines as well as mandated repair costs.

When to Call an Electrician

Homeowners can handle basic electrical tasks, such as changing light bulbs, resetting circuit breakers, and replacing simple fixtures. For most other concerns, calling a licensed electrician keeps your electrical system safe and reliable.

Electricians possess the expertise, training, and certification necessary to handle electrical systems according to industry safety standards. With access to professional electrical technology and tools and an in-depth knowledge of local codes and regulations, electricians ensure the compliance and safety of your system.

Call QRC for Electrical Repair in Winston-Salem

At QRC, you can rely on our team of licensed and insured electricians to assist with electrical repairs and more. Serving Winston-Salem and other North Carolina areas, we’re the preferred provider for home services — contact us or schedule online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How likely am I to get electrocuted or start a fire if I try DIY repairs?

Different circumstances carry varying risk levels of electrocution or fire. DIY electrical repairs, however, represent many injuries and fires each year.

How can I prevent electrical issues?

Inspections, maintenance, and prompt repairs by professional electricians helps identify problems before they escalate. Consider these strategies for electrical safety:

  • Routinely check equipment and devices for damage
  • Avoid using damaged extension cords
  • Don’t overload circuits with multiple high-demand appliances, power bars or extension cords
  • Upgrade to three-prong and GFCI outlets as recommended

What should I do if I experience a power outage?

Check your circuit breakers, and reset tripped breakers if safe to do so. If the breakers are in the on position and the power outage persists, contact your utility provider or electrician.