Things to Watch When Doing DIY Electrical Jobs

Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are fun, but when it comes to electrical jobs, safety should be your number one priority.

You might want to do electrical jobs to cut labour cost and service fees. However, take note that as per the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017, you are not allowed to do major DIY electrical tasks. So, you have no other choice but to ask for Eastern Suburbs Electricians to conduct electrical services for you. 

What are Electrical Works?

NSW’s Fair Trading defines electrical works as the physical labour that conducts installation, repair, modification, and removing or adding electrical equipment within the system. Specifically, here are some of the activities that are considered electrical work:

• Installing outlets, switches, fans, circuit connection, and any other electrical equipment
• Replacing switches, main-line cables, electric meter box, and switchboard
• Disassembling switchboard components, circuit breakers, and power points
• Building extension lead and power pole
• Rewiring the electrical system
• Relocating switches, power points, and the switchboard

It is dangerous for unlicensed individuals to do these things as they don’t have the right knowledge and experience to finish the tasks, precisely. Illegal electrical jobs can cause electrocution and fines from $22,000 for an individual up to $110,000 for companies. Thus, hiring licensed level 2 electricians is the best solution.    

What Can You Do?

With the strict implementation of no licence, no conducting of electrical work guideline, you must comply to avoid injuries and fines. Bear in mind that it is for your safety and the community as well. But, there are minor electrical jobs you can DIY and here are some of them:

Replacing a light bulb 

Just make sure that the switch is off before removing and installing the light bulb. But, also note that you need electricians when installing LED lights and light sockets. 

Rewiring old fuses

Some houses still have ceramic fuses that blow when power overloading happens. You can rewire them safely but turn off the main switchboard first to ensure that no electricity is flowing. 

Resetting the circuit breakers 

They are safety switches that turn off the circuit when power overloading occurs. Disconnect the appliances first, then reset the circuit breakers by switching the turn off button to on. Frequent tripping is a power quality issue, so it is best to call an electrician for an inspection. 

Installing low-voltage electrical equipment

You are allowed to install electrical equipment as long as they are in low voltages. Garden lights, pond pumps, and battery-operated smoke detectors are some of the things you can install, but you might also need an electrician to layout plans.

Things to Watch When Doing DIY Electrical Jobs

Doing some of the DIY electrical jobs can also be dangerous. Minor electric shock can cause injuries while working, such as falling off the ladder or bumping to an object. Thus, you need to take the following safety precautions:  

Electricity Runs on Circuits

Even though you turn off an appliance or device, it draws power as long as the switchboard is on. Thus, when working with an electrical job, you must ensure to turn off the switchboard first and equip yourself with rubber gloves and proper work attire for added safety and assurance. 

Water and Electricity Don’t Mix Well Together

Pure water is an insulator of electricity, but it is a different story when there are impurities present. These impurities cause water to be a conductor of electricity, making it a threat for an electric shock when you come in contact with a live wire. Thus, dry your hands first before doing electrical work or even when connecting an appliance to an outlet.  

Metals are Conductor of Electricity

When working with electrical equipment, tools are necessary to disassemble, connect, and mount objects. However, take note that you should never touch the metal part of a tool that is connected with a live wire. It can also cause an electric shock as metals are good conductors of electricity. The best way to avoid electrocution is by hiring expert electricians so you can relax and be safe from harm. 

Conclusion

The Australian law does not allow unqualified and unlicensed individuals to conduct major electrical works that pose a risk to their safety and the community as well. It is best to hire electricians as they are knowledgeable and experts in the field of electrical services. 

You can do some minor DIY electrical jobs, but you need to do things carefully and watch for electrical hazards when working with the circuits. When in doubt, you can always call for Sydney Eastern Suburbs Electrician, your trusted friend for electrical installation, repair, inspection, and system upgrade. 

Our licensed level 2 electricians are experts that can turn your vision into reality. With our vast services, from LED light installation, electrical fault finding, to switchboard upgrade, we guarantee that we can do all kinds of jobs — no matter how small or big they are. We have the right equipment and tools for your needs. With just a call, we promise that we will be at your doorsteps within an hour.    

Experience the best electrical services in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney with us! Call us at (02) 8378 2827 or avail your free quote by booking an appointment here.