5 Common DIY Electrical Mistakes Homeowners Make

Many homeowners love DIY projects and will attempt to tackle them on weekends or in their spare time. However, electrical work carries significant risks, making mistakes much more dangerous than other DIY attempts. From fire hazards to serious code violations, handling wiring projects without the proper knowledge can quickly lead to emergencies.

JDV Electric in Lansdowne, PA is your locally trusted electrician who can help with all electrical projects, no matter the scope. Here are five common mistakes homeowners make when handling DIY electrical work.

1. Unknowingly Overloading Circuits

One of the most common DIY errors is unknowingly overloading a circuit. This problem usually happens when you install additional outlets or light fixtures without realizing the circuit is already at or near capacity.

The result is tripped breakers, flickering lights, and potential overheated wires and fires. While installing a few electrical additions may seem like an easy fix, each circuit has a load limit.

Failure to understand the limits could put your family and home in danger. Our knowledgeable electricians use load calculators to ensure every circuit operates safely and efficiently.

2. Outlets Without GFCI Protection

Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are essential in areas where moisture is present, including bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor spaces. GFCI outlets cut the power instantly when they detect a short circuit or current imbalance.

DIYers sometimes install standard outlets in these areas, unaware of the code requirement. Without GFCI protection, the risk of electrical shock increases. Even worse, you could void your homeowner’s insurance coverage if damage occurs.

3. Mixing Wire Gauges and Improper Connections

Not all wiring is the same. Electrical wiring comes in different gauges, each rated with a specific amperage. DIYers can often connect wiring of differing gauges without realizing it. Mismatched wiring can cause overheating and stress points in the circuit.

Another common issue is improper wire splicing. A twisted-together connection without a secure wire nut or junction box is unstable. It lacks the necessary insulation and containment to prevent arcing, which can ignite insulation and start fires inside your walls. Our expert licensed electricians at JDV Electric use the correct wire size for each circuit and make all connections using industry-approved methods and materials.

4. Failing to Secure Permits or Follow Code

Many homeowners skip the permitting process in DIY approaches. They falsely assume it’s not necessary for minor repairs or additions. Unfortunately, bypassing permits means skipping inspections. No one is there to verify that the work is safe or up to code.

Building codes exist for safety reasons. They protect homeowners from long-term safety hazards. Code violations can resurface in home sales, insurance claims, or refinancing.

An official electrical code inspection ensures all work complies with local regulations and meets industry standards. It will also give you peace of mind that the wiring behind your walls is not a safety risk.

5. Using the Wrong Electrical Boxes

Another common oversight in DIY electrical repairs and installations is using the wrong type of electrical box. Sometimes, people use no boxes, creating an even more hazardous situation. A too-small box can cause wire crowding, increasing the risk of overheating and short circuits.

Leaving junctions or splices outside of an electrical box can cause electrical fires. Electrical boxes contain connections and provide a safe barrier between the wiring and the surrounding structure. Every wire splice or termination must be inside an electrical box, with no exceptions. This is a critical issue for long-term safety.

Why It’s Smarter to Call a Licensed Electrician

DIY electrical work can seem easy on the surface, but the dangers are always there. Inadequate knowledge, improper tools, and a lack of code can create significant problems.

Licensed electricians bring more than technical skills. They offer experience, training, and code compliance. We handle permits and inspections with ease. Our electricians troubleshoot hidden faults and work efficiently and safely to protect your investment.

Avoid DIY Electrical Approaches

While video tutorials and hardware store advice can make you feel like a pro, the real-world risks offer warnings. Electrical systems are highly complex. Even small mistakes can lead to dangerous outcomes.

Overloaded circuits, ungrounded outlets, mismatched wiring, and uncovered boxes are just a few of the mistakes DIY enthusiasts make. A DIY repair or installation can lead to dangerous issues, including shock and fire.

Instead of guessing or taking the easy way out, consult a licensed electrician to assess the issue and offer a safe solution. Consider scheduling a professional inspection to uncover safety and code violations before they become expensive repair issues.

JDV Electric is a locally owned and operated electrical company in Lansdowne. We opened our doors in 2005 and have become one of the most reputable electrical providers in the area. We promise upfront pricing, trusted electricians, fully stocked trucks, and your 100% satisfaction guarantee. Allow us to handle all your electrical needs to avoid serious hazards safely.

Call JDV Electric’s expert electricians if you need an electrical inspection in Lansdowne. We’ll be happy to schedule your appointment.