Guidelines For Home Electrical Projects

Homeowners often face many do-it-yourself projects and many of those projects are trial and error. However, electrical repairs and/or projects should not fall under the category of trial and error. Before beginning an electrical repair project, follow the steps below to ensure a safe, successful result.

First, confirm that you are permitted to do electrical work on your own home. The Oregon Department of Business and Consumer Services (ODBCS) indicates that homeowners do not need a permit to replace electrical devices or perform maintenance on an existing electrical installation, but a permit is required in some instances. According to the ODBCS, you need a permit to install or modify any permanent wiring or electrical device, run additional wiring, put in an electrical outlet or light fixture, install or modify low-voltage systems such as security alarms or stereo systems, install a receptacle for a garage-door opener or convert to circuit breakers. Of course, the law varies from state to state. Be sure to check with your local office to confirm whether or not you need a permit.

Secondly, off all electrical power through the circuit breaker. Flipping a switch off is not enough. The socket or appliance will remain live. Many circuit breakers have diagrams detailing with circuit is connected which breaker, but be sure to check for yourself. You can do this by using a voltage tester. Someone assisting you is also helpful and prevents the need to run back and forth to test the circuit. Always tape the circuit breaker into the off position to avoid anyone restoring power while you are working. Finally, remember that the main wires entering the electrical panel from the outside cannot be turned off. For this reason, do not touch the wires or go near them with anything made of metal. If you suspect the electrical problems are with these wires, contact the power company. Do not try to find the problem on your own.

Third, standing in water or on a damp floor could result in a life-threatening shock. If there is water on the floor, place a rubber mat on the floor to stand on. Also, be sure you are wearing dry clothes. If you are not sure if the area is safe, call a professional. One call could save you from a dangerous shock.

Fourth, remember that metal is bad and rubber is good. If you touch metal and a live wire at the same time, your body carries a current from one to the other. Running a current through your body is, obviously, not healthy nor is it pleasant experience. However, rubber is a nonconductive material and actually insulates against electricity. Use tools with rubber or plastic coated handles and wear shoes with rubber soles.

Finally, test your work once you are finished. Turn the circuit breakers on to return electrical power to the area, and use a voltage tester to check if the appropriate amount of electricity is running. The amount required varies by the size of the appliance.