When to DIY and When to Call an Electrician

It’s also common for homeowners to ask, "Can I fix this myself, or do I need to call an electrician?"

The truth is most electrical work should be left to the professionals but there are a few tasks you might be able to handle safely - granted you have the right protective equipment, tools, and handiness. The risks of DIY electrical work aren’t just about personal injury; they also include long-term fire hazards, code violations, and even voided insurance coverage.

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we break it down so you can know what’s safe to tackle and what requires the expertise of a certified electrician.

When It’s (Usually) Safe to DIY

Let’s be clear: even the most "basic" electrical jobs carry some risk. With that said, there are a few low-voltage surface-level tasks that are generally considered DIY-friendly - assuming that you follow proper safety protocols and know when to stop. These include:

• Replacing Light Bulbs: This may sound silly, but it’s still technically electrical work. In any case, just make sure the light switch is off, the fixture has cooled, and you’re using the right wattage.
• Resetting a Tripped Breaker: If a breaker has tripped, you can usually flip it back on yourself by pushing it totally into the OFF position then back to the ON position. However, if the same breaker trips repeatedly, then there's probably an underlying problem that needs professional attention.
• Replacing Outlet and Switch Covers: As long as the power is off and you’re just swapping the covers (and not the actual outlet or switch) you should be fine.
• Installing Battery-Powered Devices: Smart home gadgets like battery-powered security cameras or wireless smoke detectors are designed for homeowner installation. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

When to Call a Certified Electrician (Which Is Most of the Time)

Electricity is not the place for guesswork. If you're even slightly unsure, then it’s best to bring in a certified electrician in Castle Rock. Here are common situations where it's worth emphasizing that DIY is NOT recommended:

• New Wiring or Rewiring: Mistakes here can lead to serious shock hazards, fires, or major system failures. It also requires knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and often local permitting.
• Installing Outlets, Switches, or Fixtures: One wrong connection can cause short circuits or arcing, both of which are major fire risks.
• Upgrading the Electrical Panel: This is a complex job that demands advanced knowledge and strict code compliance. It also involves DEADLY voltage.
• Installing Major Appliances: Many large appliances like ovens and dryers require special circuits or higher voltage connections. Improper installation can damage the appliance, void its warranty, or - worse - put your home at risk.
• Outdoor Electrical Work: Outdoor wiring must be protected against the elements and wildlife. These projects demand weatherproof materials and expertise.
• Troubleshooting Mysterious Issues: Flickering lights? Buzzing outlets? Burning smells? This is no place for guesswork.

Why Hiring Certified Electricians Is Worth It

Hiring a certified electrician in Cherry Hills Village is an investment in safety and peace of mind. Certified electricians are trained to understand the full scope of your electrical system. They don't just address symptoms or surface-level issues. They tackle the root cause and make sure nothing is affected up or downstream.

Plus, our electricians at Mr. Electric are licensed, insured, and up to date on building codes. We even offer a 1-year guarantee on workmanship so that you can rest assured. What do you have to lose? Call Mr. Electric to learn more about our upfront prices and fees.

Call Mr. Electric for Urgent Assistance

Do you need emergency electrical repair? Call or message Mr. Electric to speak with a member of our team at any time of the day - or night. We can have a local electrician dispatched to your home or business as soon as possible.