An Electrical Contractor Discusses 5 Common Electrical Mistakes Homeowners Make

Homeowners need to be aware that working with electricity is a dangerous activity

. There are many maintenance projects around the house that homeowners can do by themselves. However, electricity is not one of those areas. Many electrical projects need qualified electrical contractors. Below are five common errors homeowners make with electricity.

Overloading Outlets

One the most common mistakes that an electrical contractor sees a homeowner make is putting too many outlets into one circuit. People often use multi-out extenders sold by stores to plug multiple appliances, lights and electronics in at one location. However, the outlet itself is not built to handle all the power the appliances need. The electrical load needs to be spread out. If the load is not spread out, the whole electrical system will start having major issues.

Improper Electric Box Installation

Installing an electric box in the wall may seem like a simple chore. However, homeowners conducting the installation forget to take into account how thick the drywall will be. Electrical contractors often have to fix electric box installations because people place the box too far in or out of the wall.

Choosing the Wrong Size Wire

Adding an outlet or a new circuit is not a project people should do themselves. This is because many individuals often choose the wrong gauge wire. For example, they might use a 15-amp rated wire while connecting to a 20-amp breaker. This improper installation could very easily result in a fire.

Using an Extension Cord as a Permanent Solution

To save money, people often think an extension cord is a great solution to any wiring problems they are experiencing. However, extension cords are not designed for long-term use. The insulation will eventually wear out and will no longer be useful in any manner, costing people more money down the road.

Exceeding Light Bulb Wattage Limits

Exceeding light bulb wattage is something electrical contractors see too often. The problem happens when a lighting fixture requires using a 60-watt light bulb but someone decides to place 100-watt bulb into the socket. The higher wattage bulb will use much more power and get much hotter than the rated 60-watt bulb will. The lighting fixture sockets are not designed to carry the extra workload. The base will get hotter, which can potentially cause a fire.

Mistakes made by individuals seeking to save time, energy and possibly money may result in disastrous consequences. If you are unsure of anything, contact your licensed electrical contractor.

by: Bob Lord

POST COMMENT

Electricians Concern About Counterfeit Products What Are the Two Basic Types of Air Conditioner Units? How to Buy Air Conditioner Units Tips for Choosing Air Conditioner Units Why Choose Portable Air Conditioner Units Why Choose Window Air Conditioner Units Home Air Conditioning Basics for You 8051 Microcontroller Tutorial Will Let You Go Deep Into The Concept Of Microcontrollers LG Air Conditioning - The Leaders In Cooling Why Choose a Centralized Air Conditioning Unit Daikin Air Conditioning - A Smart Option Tips for Buying an Air Conditioner Unit Split System Air Conditioning - Stay Cool This Summer