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When it comes to wiring, many homeowners don't differentiate between low voltage wiring and electrical wiring. Low voltage wiring includes projects such as setting up phone, cable, satellite, computer and entertainment systems. Wiring these systems requires specific knowledge, but making a mistake does not pose a danger like when you're dealing with electrical wiring (lighting, fixtures, circuits, outlets, switches) and any appliance you plug into the wall.
If you decide to tackle an electrical project on your own, always remember to exercise extreme caution. Be sure to unplug electrical appliances during repairs, and disconnect the power from the circuits you're working on by removing the fuse from the fuse box or tripping the circuit breaker. It is a good idea to leave a note by the circuit box or fuse box notifying others not to restore power while you are working.
While undertaking an electrical wiring project yourself may save a few bucks, you should only attempt it if you have the proper experience and training. When dealing with electrical installations or electrical repairs inexperience and improper wiring can cause fire, personal injury and death. With electricity there is no room for errors.
Indeed, about 1,000 people die of electric shock in the country each year, and many more suffer electrical burns, which may cause serious internal damage, especially to the heart, muscles, nerves or brain. So whether you're installing a pool or hot tub, re-wiring all or part of your home, or even just dealing with 3-way circuits, a licensed electrical contractor has the knowledge and experience to do the job right and safely.
Electrical contractors are required to know and follow certain electrical codes and standards. There is a complex guide to proper wiring and circuitry that all electrical contractors must adhere to, which insures safe installations and repairs. It also provides standard procedures so that different electricians can know how any job was wired when they make repairs or do installations, the next day or several years down the road.
Even for smaller electrical projects, peace of mind comes from knowing you have someone qualified on the job. Electrical contractors are insured for liability and property that you may not be if you undertake electrical repairs and installations on your own.
Whether you need an electrical panel and new service or someone to repair a ceiling fan, switches, outlets or fixtures, you can find a local electrical contractor on this site. To insure that you're dealing with a reputable contractor, interview them and make sure they are certified, licensed, bonded and insured, with coverage for property damage and workers' compensation. You should ask in advance what work will be left after the job is finished. Electricians generally do not repair holes, trenches or landscaping disturbed in the course of the job.
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