There will be a number of things to fix or install in your new home, in order to make it habitable. Electrical installation is one of those things, from cables and wires to outlets and switches, there is no doing without electricity in your new home. As tempting as it is to do your home wiring yourself, it is always best to employ the services of a qualified electrician. An electrical installation gone wrong could lead to short circuits, electrocution and even fire. Instead of making some common electrical mistakes, you better consider all of the options, when you buy new home.

Common electrical mistakes when you buy a new home

There are a number of electrical jobs that you can successfully carry out yourself, but, when it comes to anything related to electricity, safety is always a primary concern. Here are some common electrical mistakes you need to be aware of:

1. Not installing a junction box

   A junction box, also known as connection box or electrical box, is a device that protects electrical connections. If a short circuit should occur, this device can contain heat or sparks and prevent them from causing damage. However, using a junction box when adding a socket to a radial or ring final, may not be necessary every time.

2. Connecting wires outside electrical boxes

   If you already have an electrical box, always ensure that your wire connections are inside those boxes. You should reconnect any wiring from outside the electrical box, and ensure that it is inside the box. You don’t want to experience any accidental damage caused by a short circuit or loose connection.

3. Leaving cables exposed

   The plastic sheathes covering your cables are not enough protection. Leaving these plastic sheathed cables exposed between ceiling framing or under a wall can be very dangerous. They can get easily damaged and result in electrocution. You should use a flexible conduit or rigid metal to protect the cables.

4. Using loose switches and receptacles

   Besides the fact that loose switches and receptacles will make your new home look shabby, they constitute a risk you should avoid. Loose receptacles will always shift and when they do, wires loosen from terminals, making your home a potential fire zone. To tighten the connection in the outlets, you can add rigid spacers under the screws.

5. Cutting wires too short

   Cutting wires too short is another very common electrical mistake that many new homeowners make. When wires are cut too short, making wire connections won’t be easy. It will also cause you to make poor connections and this can be dangerous. The length of your wires should be at least 3-6 inches from your junction box.

6. Ignoring wattage

   Many people overlook the fact that each lighting outlet has a recommended wattage. Inserting a high watt bulb in a socket with low watts capacity and vice versa, may not be safe. Moreover, if you do this, it may also make your light bulbs burn out quickly, or not operate correctly. If you’re always changing your light bulb, it’s very possible that you’re using a bulb that’s not compatible with the wattage on your socket.

Stay mindful of these common electrical mistakes when making electrical installation in your new home and you could well save yourself and your family from future electrical hazards.

Elsys Electrical Ltd is at your disposal to provide professional and fully certified electrical work in your new property. If your new home is located in Watford, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, North London or surrounding areas, Elsys Electrical is your first and best electrical contractor. Leave Professional Electrical Work to Professionals. Contact us Today