by Mia Hill

Created on: May 20, 2007   Last Updated: April 26, 2010

When trying to decide if you should do your electrical repairs yourself or if you should hire an electrician, the first place to start is at the hardware store where you are purchasing the repair parts. Often you will find sales staff who are experts in the field and sometimes know more than the electricians. The staff can advise you about what the job involves, as well as whether or not there are any legal ramifications regarding the repair project you are considering. Additionally, the sales staff  can sometimes give recommendations on electricians in the area, should you opt to go that route. The hardware staff also have brochures on the products, available for you to view, so you can decide if you should attempt the repairs yourself, even before making the purchase.

If you are a “handy-person” you probably already have your do-it-yourself repair books at home. That should be your next stop, check the books for the repairs you are considering. Review the instructions in the book, and you will have more confidence in your ability to do the job once you have read up on it.

WHEN TO DO IT YOURSELF

1. If you have successfully carried out the same repairs before, save yourself some money and do it yourself.
2. If, after reading the instruction manual that came with the electrical parts, you fully understand what is required, enjoy your new challenge.
3. If the repairs needed is visible without having to remove casing or cutting into the wall/ceiling, try it. You just may surprise yourself!

WHEN TO CALL AN ELECTRICIAN

1. If you have been advised by some impartial 3rd party to call an electrician, do not attempt it yourself.
2. If the job requires expensive additional tools that you probably will never use again, call the electrician, even if you believe you are capable of doing the repairs.
3. If it is not visible without having to do some intrusive work first, call an electrician. This would also insure that if something should go wrong, someone else will bear the cost to get it fixed.

Before you even attempt any electrical repairs, make sure you have the proper protective gear (eyewear, footwear, etc.). It is pointless to learn how to do an electrical repair job if you are not around afterwards to enjoy it! Follow your instincts – they are right most of the time.

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