Homeowners can perform some electrical repairs without having to call a professional if they have adequate knowledge about the defective system. This article discusses some helpful tips that can ensure that your electrical repair project is a success.

Avoid Short Wires

It is usually advisable to leave several inches of wire at an outlet box that you have repaired. That extra length will make it easy for you to fix that same outlet when it later develops a problem. Otherwise, the short wire will make it hard for you to pull out the outlet so that you can replace it with a new one.

Use the Right Cables

Just because a wire can transmit electricity does not mean that wire can be used for any electrical repair. For example, you should never use wires for an underground application if those wires are not rated for that purpose. This is because wrongly used cables will degrade rapidly and pose an electrical hazard to you and your appliances.

Mind the Replacement Receptacles You Use

You should never replace a two-wire power outlet with a three-wire outlet. This is because the three-wire outlet/receptacle will have a grounding wire that will not fit in the wiring of that receptacle that you are replacing. You may therefore have to run a grounding wire in order to use that three-wire outlet.

Use a Voltage Tester

Some homeowners suffer an electrical shock when they touch wires that they thought were not carrying any electricity. Faults can prevent the power from being cut off even if you have turned the main switch in the electrical panel off. The best way to safeguard yourself is by testing the electrical load of each wire. Use a voltage tester for this purpose. The tester will light up when it gets in contact with a live load. First test this device on a live circuit before you use it during your electrical repairs.

Anchor Wires Correctly

Your electrical repairs will last for a long time if you provide sufficient support for the cables or receptacles that you install. For instance, you should use staples to hold the wires firmly against the wall. You should be cautious as you drive the staples into the framing so that the hammer that you are using doesn't damage the wires inside the cable.

Don't take any risks when repairing electrical systems in your home. Call an electrician for help in case you are uncertain about any step during the diagnosis or repair process. That professional will complete the task quickly and safely.