Don’t DIY It! 5 Electrical Projects to Leave to the Professionals

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With so many home improvement videos online, it can be tempting to tackle electrical projects yourself. But when it comes to electricity, a small mistake can lead to a shock, a fire, or serious damage to your home. Here are five projects you should always leave to a licensed electrician.

1. Installing a New Circuit

A new circuit for a major appliance, like a hot tub or a new oven, is more than just running a wire. It requires knowing the right gauge of wire, the correct size of the breaker, and ensuring your electrical panel can handle the load. Doing this incorrectly can overload your entire system.

2. Upgrading an Electrical Panel

This is the most critical part of your home's electrical system. Working with the main panel is extremely dangerous. An experienced electrician will ensure the job is done safely and correctly, following all local codes and regulations.

3. Rewiring a Room or Home

If you're renovating, you might be tempted to handle the wiring yourself. But improper wiring can be a significant fire hazard and can even void your home's insurance. A professional will ensure every wire is properly installed and connected.

4. Installing a Whole-House Generator

Generators require complex wiring to safely connect to your home's electrical panel. An improper installation can be life-threatening and can cause damage to your home and the utility grid.

5. Adding New Outlets

While it seems simple, adding new outlets requires a knowledge of circuit loads and proper wiring techniques to avoid overloading a circuit. It’s always best to have a professional handle it to ensure your home is safe.