3 DIY Electrical Repairs

Loose outlets, overloaded circuits and other problems can raise the risk of fires and electric shock. While you should call an electrician for major electrical issues, you can do simple ones on your own. Here are a few DIY electrical repairs you can handle on your own.

Loose Outlets

Outlets can become loose over time, resulting in loose wires. To tighten a loose outlet, first turn off power to it. Test the outlet with a voltage tester to ensure it has no power. Take the outlet cover off, and unscrew the outlet. Adding outlet shims to the screws helps ensure the outlet isn't set back too deeply. After adding the shims, screw the outlet back in place and put the outlet cover back on.

Light Switch Cover Replacements

Whether you have a cracked light switch cover or just want to replace old covers, you can easily do this on your own. Be sure to turn off the power to avoid electrical shock.

When the power is off, remove the current switch plate. Place the new light switch cover on, and screw in the screws about halfway. Make sure the cover is in the right position, then finish tightening the screws.

Circuit Breaker Problems

When you have a tripped circuit breaker, this can happen for different reasons. An overloaded circuit is one of the more common reasons circuit breakers trip and shut off power to a certain area of your home or certain appliances.

When you have a tripped circuit breaker, move the breaker switch to the off position, then switch it to the on position. This resets the circuit breaker, but you might continue to have tripped breakers if a circuit is overloaded. Plug in and turn on appliances and devices one by one to determine what might be causing the overload. Have fewer items on the affected circuit to reduce the risk of an overload, and call an electrician if you continue to have circuit breaker problems.