That flickering light or broken outlet might seem like an easy fix, but behind your walls is a web of wires carrying enough current to seriously injure—or even kill. Every year, thousands of house fires across the U.S. are caused by faulty electrical work, and a good number of those originate from well-intentioned DIY projects.
In Texas alone, the National Fire Protection Association reports that electrical failures or malfunctions are one of the leading causes of residential fires. And these aren’t just from outdated systems—many stem from people trying to save money or time by doing it themselves. What’s behind the wall is hidden for a reason, and without the proper training, it’s easy to overlook something crucial.
Some of the most common (and dangerous) DIY mistakes include:
- Overloaded circuits that cause heat buildup
- Loose or exposed wiring that becomes a fire hazard
- Incorrect breaker sizing that can result in system failure
- Improper grounding that increases the risk of electrocution
- Spliced wires with no junction box, which violates code and safety standards
What’s worse, these issues don’t always show symptoms right away. You might think the job is done well if the light turns on or the outlet works. But hidden heat spots, arc faults, or overloaded circuits can build up quietly—until one day they don’t.
Electrical fires don’t give warnings. They happen fast, and they’re devastating. If you’re not 100% confident in your knowledge of wiring, voltage, grounding, and load calculations, it’s not worth the risk.
Think your job is simple? Let a licensed electrician take a look before it’s too late.
Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or facility manager, our goal is to keep you informed and empowered when it comes to electrical systems. From code compliance to smart energy solutions, tune in for expert insights and tips backed by the trusted professionals at Dunn Electric.