Get the inside scoop from seasoned electricians who’ve mastered the art of electrical wizardry. According to the experts, your safety comes first, and they’ve got years of training to prove it. No grim statistics here! To dodge DIY disasters, embrace the golden rule: If you’re not comfortable, don’t do it yourself. Check out the three things that professional electricians would never do in their own home.
Never Leave the Power On
Here’s the electrician’s golden rule: NEVER leave the power on when you’re diving into the world of wires. The electricians spill the tea: whether you’re a DIY dynamo or just starting, cutting the power is a must.
But fear not, electricians-in-training! All you need to do is locate and flick off the correct breaker switch. If you’re not sure which one you need to turn off, professionals can show you the way, so call the local electrician for a lightning-fast rescue.
Always Use the Right Tools
Another thing electricians would never dream of doing is using tools not made for electrical work. Remember, pliers are not hammers. If you’re ready to conquer your project, plan it out, make a tool checklist, and go with quality gear. That’s the electrician’s winning recipe.
Electricians use a variety of tools to perform their work safely. Some of the most common tools include screwdrivers, pliers, wire strippers, voltage testers, tape measures, drills, multimeters, utility knives, flashlights, hammers, fish tapes, circuit testers, crimping tools, conduit benders, and levels.
Always Stay Up to Code
Safety is essential for electrician pros, and that means following the National Electrical Code to a tee. Doing this is not just about safety, though; it’s about uniformity, too. Code sets the industry standard, creating a universal language for electricians to understand what’s what, which means no taking shortcuts. If you’re not code-savvy, don’t worry, because a pro electrician can guide you. For the ambitious DIYers, grab a code handbook or go digital for quick access.
All of these tips send a similar message: use the right tools, go into the project with all of the knowledge you need to do it well and stay safe. If you manage to do those things, you should have no trouble completing your project successfully.