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If you are going to work with electricity, you should have some experience. Electricity can be temperamental, and one false move could send you to the hospital. There is little room for error when it comes to electricity–if a mistake isn’t corrected, it could result in serious consequences, such as electrical shock, fires, or shorts. Learning about some of the most frequent blunders made while working with electricity can help you know what to steer clear of.
Cutting the Wires Too Short
This is a commonplace error when cutting wires to install a new switch or outlet. Wires that are too abbreviated make it complicated to create secure connections and it might become hazardous. Check that you leave the wires long enough so they are visible for about three inches out of the box. If you are confronted with having to work with brief wires, you can lengthen them with six inch extensions on the pre-existing wires.
Making a Connection Outside of an Electrical Box
When working on a wiring project, like installing an outdoor light, and there is no electrical box, it may be tempting to wire a new connection outside where a box is needed, or in another location outside the box. However, you should add a junction box to the location where the light is going to be installed. This will protect the connection from damage and any sparks or heat. All you have to do is install the box and then connect the wires inside.
Loose Outlets
If an outlet is not properly secured, it may move and cause the wire to come detached from the terminal. If this occurs, the wires may overheat and arc, presenting a fire hazard. If the screws on the outlet are loose or the outlet itself is shifting – even slightly – then you should add plastic spacers to the screw to support and secure the outlet.
Leaving Your Cable Unprotected
This may also create electrical issues down the road. Cables between framing members have to be protected according to electrical code. If a cable is run under or over a wall to ceiling framing, it may become damaged. You can safeguard the cable by attaching a small board next to it to prevent stored items from causing damage.
Unfortunately, if you have never worked with electricity before, you are putting yourself and your family at risk by trying to handle electrical work and repairs on your own. A better option is to call the professionals at SJ Electric. They can inspect the electrical components in place and make any repairs or changes necessary.
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