Every homeowner loves the idea of saving time and money with do it yourself projects. Replacing a faucet or painting a wall? Totally doable. But when it comes to electrical work, it gets a little trickier—and sometimes a lot more dangerous.
At NOLA Electric service, we have seen plenty of New Orleans homeowners start with good intentions and end up needing help to fix what became a serious electrical hazard. This guide is here to help you understand which tasks you can handle on your own and when you need to step aside and call in a pro.
What Electrical Work Is Safe for DIY
Not every electrical job requires an expert. Some small tasks are safe as long as you use caution and proper tools.
Here are a few examples of electrical work that most homeowners can safely do:
- Replacing light bulbs
Just make sure the power is off first. - Installing battery powered smoke detectors
These are not connected to your home’s wiring and are easy to install. - Replacing outlet covers or switch plates
As long as you are not touching wires and the power is off, you are good to go. - Resetting a tripped circuit breaker
If it happens once in a while, no problem. If it keeps tripping, call a pro.
Always test with a voltage tester before you begin any electrical task. Even experienced homeowners can make incorrect assumptions about circuits.
Electrical Work You Should Never Try to DIY
This is where things can go from minor to dangerous fast. Certain electrical tasks require permits, inspections, and a deep understanding of safety codes.
Never attempt these tasks unless you are a licensed electrician:
- Wiring or rewiring your home
This involves technical knowledge and code compliance. - Installing new outlets, switches, or fixtures
Any job that involves live wires should be handled by a professional. - Upgrading your electrical panel
This is a job for someone trained to handle high voltage and manage your entire system. - Outdoor electrical installations
These must be waterproof, grounded, and up to local code. - Working with high voltage systems
If you do not know exactly what you are dealing with, stop right there.
Your safety is too important to leave to guesswork. For anything complex, call a professional.
The Hidden Dangers of DIY Electrical Mistakes
It might seem like watching a few tutorials is enough, but electrical mistakes are not like other home repair errors.
They can cause fires, destroy appliances, or lead to serious injuries. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical failures are a major cause of residential fires nationwide.
Hiring a licensed electrician ensures:
- Your work meets safety codes in New Orleans
- Your insurance remains valid
- Your home stays safe for your family
- Problems get fixed correctly the first time
Ask yourself this, would you feel confident explaining your DIY wiring to an inspector? If not, do not take the risk.
When It’s Time to Call NOLA Electrical Services
Some things are better left to the experts. At NOLA Electrical Services, we assist New Orleans homeowners with safe, certified electrical repairs and upgrades.
Our services include:
- Electrical troubleshooting and repairs
- Wiring and rewiring
- Electrical panel and breaker upgrades
- Indoor and outdoor lighting installs
- Emergency electrical services
We provide honest guidance, upfront pricing, and solutions that keep your home safe.
Ready to Schedule Safe, Professional Electrical Work
Electrical work is no place for uncertainty. For licensed service and total peace of mind, trust the team at NOLA
Email: bp@nolaelectricco.com
Location: Proudly serving New Orleans and surrounding areas