Common Electrical Mistakes Homeowners Make

Homeowners can tackle simple electrical wiring jobs, but they must know how to do a good job. One wrong move could endanger someone or damage a home. Slip-ups could also cost money if an expensive part becomes damaged. Understanding common house wiring mistakes could save a life.

Too Many Wires

Homeowners want to preserve their home’s beauty. That’s why they sometimes drill a hole in the wall and run several cords through it. While understandable, this move could create a hazard. The wire’s protective coating wears away if it doesn’t have room to “breathe.” Worse, stuffing wires into holes creates friction, which is the last thing you want with electrical components. When pulling wires out, friction wears away the insulation jacket. With house wiring, safety must trump aesthetics. 

No Protection From Screws and Nails

Homeowners should leave at least 1 1/4th inch of space between electrical cables and wooden frames. The gap is a safety measure for screws and nails set in the walls later. Master electricians know how to balance making a home beautiful and protecting homeowners from electrical risks. Customers can work with technicians to determine how much of a gap to leave between cables and frames. 

Mixing Low-Voltage Wires With Line Wires

Property owners must exercise caution when using different electrical appliance wires. Finishing a house wiring job too quickly or not checking work could cause a fire. It’s a bad idea to mix wires, especially line and low-voltage wires. Mixing the two could trigger interference between telephonic and electronic components. For home improvement or repair jobs that involve different wires, professionals should take care of everything.

Mistakes happen, but some are avoidable. Property owners need to know what they risk by taking on electrical jobs alone. While electricians cost money, they also save customers money. Further, they may save a person’s life or home.