Most homeowners prefer going the DIY way when dealing with smaller projects around the home. However, overlooking little mistakes is easy for amateur electricians. Electrical mistakes can be dangerous, even if they seem minor.
Here are five DIY electrical mistakes to avoid.
Connecting electrical wires outside electrical boxes is one such mistake. Junction boxes safeguard connections from damage. They also contain heat and sparks from short circuits or loose connections. Cutting wires too short makes connections difficult and may lead to poor or loose connections. Wires should be left long enough to extend at least three inches from the box.
Leaving plastic-sheathed cables unprotected is dangerous because they can easily be damaged. Such cables are vulnerable when they run under or over ceiling and wall framings. Screwing or nailing a one-and-a-half-inch thick board over the cable safeguards them.
Another common DIY electrical mistake is installing loose outlets and switches. Such poorly connected switches are unattractive and dangerous because they move around and cause the cables to loosen from the terminals. Loose electrical wires can short-circuit and cause sparks. Installing small washers or special spacers can tighten the outlets and sockets.
