Updating Electrical Wiring in Your Home - When to Call an Electrician

Upgrading your home's electrical wiring can provide valuable safety improvements and enable you to power more electronic devices, but determining when to call in a professional electrician is key. As a homeowner, I've learned essential factors to consider when deciding if I should call an electrician or attempt electrical projects myself.

Signs It's Time to Upgrade the Electrical System

As a home ages, the electrical system can become outdated and potentially hazardous. Here are some red flags indicating it's time for an upgrade:

• Frequent tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses from overloaded circuits
• Not enough outlets in each room to power your devices
• Odd smells or hot outlets signalling potential wire damage
• Older wiring like knob-and-tube that lacks grounding
• Lights dimming when large appliances turn on
• No GFCIs in kitchen, bathrooms, laundry, or outdoor areas

If I notice these issues in my home, it's usually a sign that the wiring cannot safely handle my family's electrical usage. Upgrading the system can prevent fires, electrocution risks, and damage to appliances.

Evaluating Which Electrical Projects Require a Professional

While simple tasks like replacing switches or outlets may be DIY-friendly, more complex electrical projects require an expert. Here are key factors I consider:

• Updating the main service panel - I'll call an electrician to ensure proper amperage rating and safely handle high voltage.

• New circuits or wiring replacements - Professionals have the training to size wires and run cables to code.

• Integrating smart home technology - I'll hire an electrician for installing sophisticated lighting, security, and climate control systems.

• Safety-critical repairs - For any fixes involving high-voltage wires, exposed wiring, or complex diagnostics, I'll call a pro.

• Unfamiliar tasks - If I'm not 100% confident in safely completing electrical work, I get professional assistance.

Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Electrician

While DIY can save money, hiring a professional electrician offers valuable peace of mind and expertise:

• Adherence to electrical code - They ensure work meets all required safety standards.

• Correct handling of permits - Electricians manage permitting paperwork and inspections.

• Access to safety gear - They use gloves, glasses, and tools I likely don't own for protection.

• Fault diagnosis skills - Experts can accurately pinpoint and address electrical issues.

• Efficiency - Electricians complete complex jobs faster with the right skills.

• Insurance coverage - If accidents occur, their insurance protects my home.

Conclusion

I always evaluate electrical projects carefully to determine if I should upgrade wiring myself or hire a professional. While I can handle basic tasks, for safety-critical work and large-scale upgrades I hire a licensed electrician. They have the expertise and gear to complete complex electrical work to code, minimizing risks in my home.