Many people like to see themselves as capable of taking on household repairs. However, electrical repairs are a major risk for any amateur. Even seemingly simple electrical tasks can pose serious dangers, including electrical shock, fire hazards, and damage to a home’s wiring. DIY electrical work can also lead to code violations. We strongly recommend you leave your electrical repairs in Buffalo, NY to licensed professionals like us.
Below, we’ll highlight some of the most common electrical repairs homeowners often attempt—and which they shouldn’t.
Electrical Repairs You Should Never Try Yourself
1. Replacing or Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
The electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system, distributing electricity throughout the house. Upgrading or repairing the panel involves working with high-voltage wiring, which is dangerous even for seasoned professionals.
DIY panel work can easily result in electrocution or create long-term fire hazards. If a new panel isn’t installed correctly, you may end up with overloaded circuits or code violations. If you need to replace or upgrade your panel, always call a licensed electrician.
2. Installing New Wiring or Rewiring Your Home
Rewiring is a complex task that involves more than just running wires through walls. It requires knowledge of how circuits function, the correct way to make connections, and familiarity with safety codes. Incorrect wiring can lead to short circuits, overheating, and house fires.
Even adding new outlets or switches can cause problems if the wiring is done improperly. Professionals ensure your home’s wiring is installed according to code, reducing the risk of future electrical issues.
3. Fixing or Replacing Circuit Breakers
Many homeowners believe that fixing or replacing a circuit breaker is as simple as flipping a switch. However, there is much more involved. Faulty circuit breakers need to be identified and replaced correctly, and dealing with them requires shutting off power at the main electrical panel.
One wrong move could result in an electrical shock or a system-wide outage. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the replacement breaker matches the specifications for your panel. Hiring a licensed electrician ensures that the work is done safely and accurately.
4. Electrical Work Near Water
Electrical installations in areas near water, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces, pose a higher risk. Moisture and electricity are a dangerous combination, making it essential to install proper ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets and ensure that all connections are protected.
Attempting this kind of work without professional expertise can leave you vulnerable to electrical shock and create dangerous conditions. Electricians are trained to follow the special precautions required for electrical work in wet areas, keeping your family safe.
5. Installing or Repairing Light Fixtures
Swapping out light fixtures seems like an easy DIY project, but it often involves more than just changing a bulb. If you’re installing a heavy chandelier or working with unfamiliar wiring, the risk of improper installation increases.
Incorrect wiring can cause blown fuses, tripped breakers, or even electrical fires. Additionally, you may need to install the correct size of electrical boxes and ensure that everything is securely mounted. For these reasons, it’s better to leave light fixture installations to a professional.
Trust Us for Safe, Professional Repairs
Electrical repairs aren’t just about getting things to work—they’re about safety and reliability. When you work with Scherer Electric, you’re hiring licensed professionals who have the training and experience to handle electrical work safely and effectively. We follow local codes, ensure all installations are secure, and give you peace of mind knowing the job has been done right.
Contact us whenever you need any type of electrical repair. Scherer Electric Is Western New York’s Favorite Electrician!
