Hiring a licensed electrician: a must-read guide

Hiring a licensed electrician: a must-read guide

From heating homes to powering businesses, electricity remains essential to everyday life. Hence, the role of an electrician becomes relevant. With tons of money invested in electrical appliances, many of which contribute to revenue generation, productivity and user satisfaction, it pays to hire a licensed electrician to maintain power and appliances in the home and office. This guide provides reasons for this claim and discusses steps to find the right certified electrician.

Illustration of electrician and electrical comopnents

Licensed, non-licensed – what difference does it make?

While many electrical works are handled by regular electricians, some require the expertise and experience of licensed experts. For example, most simple electrical operations demand the knowledge of basic wiring, electrical control repairs, troubleshooting and installation (appliances, switches, cables, circuit boards and more), and fixture replacement, which general electricians can handle.

In contrast, complex electrical projects would necessitate a thorough understanding of building codes and requirements, as well as the installation of transformers, breaker panels and generators, thorough testing and inspections in compliance with the national electric code, plus the laying of complex structured cables for high-rise structures, among other tasks.

Illustration of male & female electricians

Licensed electricians’ roles & responsibilities

Although not everyone has complex electrical projects at hand, and some would even prefer the DIY approach for installation and repairs, hiring a certified electrician comes with its perks. To begin with, they’re well-versed in electrical works and provide a wide array of services including:

  • Installing, repairing and maintaining electrical and electronic systems
  • Designing, building and installing electrical systems
  • Performing electrical safety inspections
  • Designing and installing communication, control and automation systems
  • Installing intricate and cutting-edge fire, electrical and security systems and equipment
  • Designing and installing high-voltage and low-voltage systems
  • Troubleshooting and repairing electrical components in industrial and commercial spaces
  • Providing safety-related consultation services to clients and contractors

Licensed electricians provide services for both residential and commercial properties. They work part-time, full-time, or on contract. What’s more? They follow up on electrical safety issues that may arise. This means that they can advise a client on how to avoid electrical hazards. Hiring them guarantees safety and prevents losses.

Illustration of an electrician and tools

What not to expect from an electrician

Electrical and electronic operations are the central objective of an electrician. Although some may have additional skills, they’re generally mandated to undertake other non-electrical projects. For instance, an electrician may need to repair defective wiring or re-align certain electric wires in the ceiling, which may necessitate the removal of asbestos ceiling tiles. If further carpentry work is needed to complete the ceiling layout, the customer must hire a carpenter.

Illustration of electrician with a toolbox

Licence requirements for electricians

Electrical work demands a high degree of knowledge and skill. Electricians must have a solid academic background, a four-year apprenticeship program, and one year of official training. Passing two location-specific tests is also required for licensure. In addition to this license, the electrician obtains a master electrician certificate. Finally, the person must have had hands-on experience working under the supervision of a journeyman electrician.

Electrical and electronic repairs, installations and maintenance are often very complex. Hence, property owners should enquire about their contractor’s credentials to ensure that they have the necessary experience to execute such tasks.

Illustration of an electrician with electrical wire and toolbox

When to hire a licensed electrician

Licensed commercial electricians are a good option for property-owners who want to lease, sell or renovate their buildings.. These electricians are up to speed on the latest electrical rules & regulations and can determine the best, most cost-effective solution for specific electrical requirements. They ensure that the property’s electrical layout and components are in excellent condition to serve the owner’s intent.

Additionally, apartment residents and owners shouldn’t wait until there’s a power emergency before hiring licensed electricians. Electrical failures are unavoidable and can hinder activities or create potential hazards. Having an electrical handyman on standby might assist in mitigating such occurrences. Electrical problems frequently come with warning indicators that shouldn’t be ignored. Once discovered, the individual shouldn’t hesitate to call a certified electrician.

Illustration of a red toolbox and yellow lightbulb

Benefits of hiring a certified electrician

Hiring a skilled electrical contractor is a great way to ensure that all electrical needs are met. There are many reasons why it’s important to hire an electrical contractor.

Safety

People hire licensed electricians for a variety of reasons, including safety. They need to be sure that all electrical components on their property are protected from electrical hazards. Aside from having the technical knowledge to work on electrical projects, licensed electricians also adhere to stringent safety protocols to avoid injuries while on the job.

Insurance

Many qualified electrical contractors are insured, which means that if something goes wrong on the project, the electrical contractor – and members of the public – will be covered by liability insurance. It guarantees that they’re protected in the event of an accident. Likewise, it shields the home-owner against unforeseen problems.

Warranty

Licensed electricians deliver high-quality, long-lasting services. They’re responsible for providing the customer with a genuine electrical warranty by confirming that the electrical components installed and the workmanship are up to standard. Should any problem arise after the project, they’re readily available to provide the customer with the necessary repairs or replacements.

Easier access

Licensed electrical contractors are often needed for projects that require permits. Most permits take time to obtain. However, having a certified electrician in charge of the project makes obtaining such permits easier and quicker. The reason is based on the fact that the professional is conversant with the industry and knows the ideal process to undertake.

Illustration of two electricians and a house

How to find a certified electrician

Individuals looking for a certified electrical contractor can seek referrals from friends and relatives. Online resources are incredibly helpful when looking for the finest electrician. Customers who are interested in a contractor can read reviews to see what others have to say about them. This will help them make an informed decision.

Illustration of a socket and plug

The bottom line

A licensed electrician overseeing an electrical project guarantees that it is completed correctly and safely. Among other things, the expert ensures the client’s safety. As a rule of thumb, conduct thorough research on selected electrical contractors, validate their qualifications and narrow the search down to an ideal candidate. This procedure is straightforward and will pay off in the long-term.

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DIY vs hiring an expert: Should you fix your own lighting?

DIY vs hiring an expert: Should you fix your own lighting?

Hiring a professional electrician to complete electrical installations, repairs or replacements provides you with a sense of security that the job has been done properly, with lasting results. Although hiring a qualified electrician will guarantee that the job has been done perfectly, there are certain aspects of changing and updating lighting that requires a professional.

Not all lighting jobs necessarily require a qualified electrician to complete. If you feel confident in your DIY skills, there are a few minor electrical projects that you can perform yourself in your home that could save you both time and money. However, if the project you’re looking to undertake is something like wiring a ceiling light, this should be completed by a qualified electrician if you have never undertaken a task like it before.

If you’re thinking of fixing any lighting fixtures in your home, here are just a few tips to know what’s possible to do yourself, and what will require an expert.

Light fixture iconcredit

Replacing light fittings

Even if you’re not a certified electrician, replacing a simple light fitting is one of the few electrical projects you can do in your home. Fortunately, there are numerous videos and articles which will take you through step by step on how to change a light fitting. As long as you have the correct tools on hand, this is quite a simple task that does not take up too much of your time.

Outdoor lighting iconcredit

Installing outdoor lighting

If you want to brighten up the exterior of your home by adding outdoor or garden lights, this has to be completed by a qualified electrician. This project falls under the Part P of the Building Regulations in the UK, meaning that jobs that fall under this umbrella should not be carried out by anyone besides a Part P certified technician.

Illustration of an arm reaching for a light switch

Changing light switches or sockets

As functional items, most light switches tend to be basic in style, mainly made from white plastic they can look slightly plain, especially in a uniquely decorated room. Simply switching to a more decorative looking switch could be the perfect finishing touch for your home. Alternatively, you can update a current switch to one that provides multi-way control if you have a more open-plan space, or for your hallway and stairwell. Changing the light switch is a simple procedure that can be done by yourself, with the help of a few online videos if needed.

Aside from being a job that you can perform yourself, you can also purchase any parts needed from most online electrical wholesalers. Sites such as Expert Electrical provide a vast range of products from cables, switches, sockets, circuit protections and consumer units.

Illustration of an electricity socket and plug cable

Rewiring faulty sockets

The reason behind rewiring faulty sockets, and also lights is because they are tripping the fuse. Like installing outdoor lighting, rewiring faulty sockets also requires to be completed by a certified electrician. It might seem easy to ignore a faulty socket, however, if there is a more serious problem behind it, then your property could potentially be at risk of developing an electrical fire.

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The emergency supplies all home-owners need in case of a blackout

The emergency supplies all home-owners need in case of a blackout | H is for Home

Blackouts are where all the electricity in your home just dies. If you’re lucky, it’s caused by something simple like a blown fuse, in which case you can replace it in the fuse box and carry on as normal. But, sometimes, blackouts can last for hours on end due to a problem with a nearby electricity line or something else.

So, what happens when you’re stuck in your home with no electricity? Think about all the things you may be unable to do! Bearing that in mind, here are a few emergency supplies all home-owners should stash away just in case.

3 lit candles

Torches, candles, battery-powered lamps

You get the idea; anything that provides your home with light needs to be part of your emergency supplies. Thankfully, all smart phones come with torches, so you’ll have plenty of them. We think some battery-powered lamps are great for adding lots of light to your home, and candles work well too.

Woman cooking using a dutch oven over an open fire

A Dutch oven

This sounds strange, but a Dutch oven is one of the best cooking appliances because of how versatile it is. As you can see on the Stone Frying Pans website, they’re commonly used for cooking outdoors or bringing on camping trips. A Dutch oven is large enough to cook lots of different things in, so it’s ideal if you need to eat while there’s a blackout, and your cooker is electric. It can be placed over a fire in your fireplace, or you can also get a portable gas hot plate type thing to use as well. When you don’t have access to multiple hobs or your oven, then a Dutch oven is the next best thing.

One top tip is to stock your cupboards full of foods that are easy for you to cook in a Dutch oven and don’t perish. Tinned soups are perfect for this, as are things like baked beans, and basically any other tinned foods. They might not be the most delicious, but they’re easy to cook and will keep everyone’s stomachs happy!

Red portable petrol generator

Portable generator

A lot of country homes have backup generators that kick in when there’s a blackout. Obviously, most people don’t have enough space for a full-on generator, so the next idea is a smaller one. Portable generators are great for supplying your home with a bit of electricity. Our advice is to plug in things that need it the most – like your fridge/freezer. Think of all the food you’ll waste if your fridge and freezer are turned off for hours on end! If everyone’s phones run out of power, then you can plug them in as well to ensure you have a means of communicating with the outside world!

If you’re prone to power outages in your home, then it might be worth buying more than one portable generator. Think of them as an emergency investment in your home. It’s better to pay for them and have them than to not have them when you need them. Plus, you can always use them to help power gardening equipment instead of trying to stretch leads all the way inside your home.

Close up of a portable heater

Mini heater

In a lot of new or renovated homes, the heat supply is powered by electricity. So, when this goes out, you lose your central heating system. As such, get your hands on a mini heater or two that’s either battery-powered or can be hooked up to your portable generator. When the temperature drops, you ensure that everyone stays warm and safe. You can buy one mini heater or multiple ones, it all depends on how big your house is and how much money you’re willing to spend.

Woman carrying folded up woollen blankets

Thermal blankets

Again, this is to help combat the cold if your power goes out during a particularly cold period. Yes, your mini heaters will help, but they can’t heat up your entire home. You’d have to buy one for every room, and then it becomes a case of finding the space to store them when they’re not being used. Instead, you can combine heaters with thermal blankets. These will ensure everyone can wrap up warm if it’s freezing. Plus, this is one of those things that you can use even when the power is on.

Blackouts can be unpredictable, and you don’t want one to cause issues for your family and your home. If you get your hands on all of these supplies, then you’ll be perfectly prepared for anything. You’ve got a way of cooking food so no-one goes hungry, you have a power source to keep essential things up and running, and you have light and heat as well.

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Price Points: Extension sockets

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extension sockets

In the 21st century, households have accumulated a lot of electrical hardware and devices. Not just general household ‘white goods’ but audio-visual kit and now multiple computers and smart phones. The average home doesn’t have enough places to plug them all into. That’s where extension sockets come in handy.

We love the design of the PowerCube – useful AND beautiful – it’s perfect for sitting atop a work desk to power your computer, printer, mobile phone, tablet etc.

If you’re going for the traditional, white extension sockets the Masterplug is a great choice. Especially if you’re like us and lots of hard-to-reach sockets behind furniture and appliances. It comes with a little remote control to save you having to stretch to reach behind the back of a bulky fridge freezer, washing machine or hi-fi system.

If you’re just after a ‘cheap & cheerful option’, you don’t get much more cheerful than these coloured ones. They’re available in pink, blue, purple and red.

  1. Allocacoc PowerCube dual USB rewirable +travel plug, 4-way socket: £21.99, Amazon
  2. Masterplug 6-socket 13A internal extension lead with remote 2m white: £23, B&Q
  3. 4-way extension socket – pink, blue, lilac, red: £7.99, eBay