Have you ever walked into a big box retailer, picked up the item you need, and thought, “I can install this myself?” Not so fast. Although some things look easy enough for a DIYer to do, it may not be the best option. Some fixtures requiring electricity may need an electrician to install them. Here are a few reasons you need an electrician you probably hadn’t thought about.
You’re Installing New Fixtures
One of the top reasons you’ll probably need to call your local electrician is to install new fixtures in your home. Check out these items that may require the help of an electrician.
Wall Sconces
So, you’ve decided to jazz up your bedroom or another home area with wall sconces. These pretty little lamps are the type that you hang on a wall to create a decorative ambiance. Unfortunately, having wires hanging from sconces may kill the mood. So, to get these installed and working correctly so they also look visually pleasing, you may have to rely on an electrician.
Additional Electrical Outlets
Let’s say you’ve purchased a television and want to mount it on a wall instead of placing it on a stand. The place you want to put it on the wall may not have an outlet nearby, and having several cords draping from the back of your hanging television won’t be aesthetically pleasing. In this instance and other instances where you need more electrical outlets, you’ll definitely want to seek the help of an electrician.
Even if you know what you’re doing, you will need proper permits for such additions. Not getting proper permits for such electrical work could create a hazardous situation and delay or prevent you from selling your home in the future if the electrical work doesn’t pass inspection.
Ceiling Fans
This should be easy. Just unplug the current fan, take extra care to remember how the wiring is configured, and plug in the new one, right? Well, as easy as it seems, this is not a good idea. Improperly attaching the wiring could create a hazard that could lead to overloading circuits, electrocution, or fires. Ideally, you should consult a professional.
Chandeliers
Chandeliers are just like regular light fixtures and should be able to be easily switched out, right? As with the ceiling fan, such an assumption could get you into a lot of trouble, not to mention keeping your new chandelier from working. Some chandeliers may require more voltage than a typical light. A professional electrician will know what’s needed to install the chandelier and what voltage it needs.
Thermostats
Some thermostats come with easy instructions, and you can probably easily remove the old one and attach the new one to the existing wiring. However, installing these devices may be more complicated than you think. So, working with an electrician may be your best bet.
You Need a Hot Tub Installed
Fixtures may not be the only thing you need an electrician for. If you recently purchased a hot tub or are opening one for the season, you may need the expertise of an electrician to avoid potential electrocution. Not only will an electrician help properly install a hot tub, but they can also alert you to any electrical issues on an existing hot tub that could be hazardous or deadly.
You’re Setting Up an Outdoor Kitchen
You’ve finally committed to setting up an outdoor kitchen because you love entertaining and want to do more of it outdoors. Well, you’ll need an electrician. Many outdoor kitchens will need outlets for wine coolers, refrigerators, grills, and griddles. If you don’t opt to use solar-powered lights, you’ll also need outlets for your lamps or other light fixtures to use after dusk. If you plan on setting up an outdoor kitchen, have a highly qualified electrician handy.
You Own an EV and Need an EV Charger
Are you embracing the smart home trend and also wanting to own an electric vehicle? As you may know, public charging stations can be challenging to find. When you find them, many other EV owners may be waiting in line to charge their vehicles. To avoid the chaos associated with charging your electric vehicle in public areas, you will need to hire an electrician to install an EV charger for your car in your home.
There is Trouble with Electrical Wiring
Trouble with electricity can lower your quality of life and even destroy your property. So, it is critical that it is working correctly. Some problems you may incur with electricity in your home include flickering lights and consistent breaker trips. You may also smell electrical burning odors from appliances or from behind a wall due to arcing. You’ll likely need an electrician to troubleshoot these problems and ensure your electrical system is safe and functional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install fixtures without the help of an electrician?
Many store-bought fixtures may come with detailed instructions for installing the product. However, if you don’t know much about electrical configurations, hiring an electrician to do such work is a good idea.
Do I need an electrician to replace the wall plates throughout my house?
While this may seem easy, the wrong type of plates can cause problems, including electrical fires and shock. A professional will choose the right covers and install them properly.
What can happen if something isn’t wired correctly in my home?
If your electrical items aren’t properly installed, you run the risk of a fire or someone potentially getting seriously injured or killed. Besides this, you may even face penalties from your local government for unpermitted work and delays if you decide to sell your home.
Electrician Serving Wayne and Beyond
Bratcher Electric in Wayne are the ones to call for all your residential electrical needs. Our electrical firm has dedicated itself to providing the highest quality electrical services to both homes and businesses throughout Southeastern Michigan for decades. We also provide sales and installation of backup power systems so that your life doesn’t have to stop when there is a power failure or outage. Visit us online to learn more about our services and why we are a top choice for electrical work throughout Wayne and beyond!