When to Hire an Electrician vs Handyman
When to Hire an Electrician vs Handyman
Not sure whether to call an electrician or a handyman for your home project? It can be confusing to know when you need a specialist versus a more general handyman. Both professionals have their roles, but it’s important to understand where the lines are drawn. Safety, efficiency, and code compliance are key factors in making the right decision. Let's break it down!
Summary
Hiring the right professional can save you time, money, and potential safety risks. Electricians are licensed experts with a deep understanding of electrical systems, while handymen are skilled at performing various general repairs and maintenance tasks. This blog will help you determine when to hire an electrician and when a handyman can handle the job.
Key Takeaways
- Hire an electrician for complex or high-risk electrical tasks like wiring, panel upgrades, and troubleshooting.
- A handyman is best suited for simpler tasks such as installing light fixtures, swapping out outlets, or minor repairs.
- Electricians are licensed, ensuring they follow local codes and safety regulations.
- Never take chances with electrical work that requires deep expertise—safety always comes first.
When to Hire an Electrician
When you’re dealing with anything involving the electrical panel, circuit breakers, or extensive wiring, it’s time to call in a licensed electrician. Electricians have the training and certifications required to work with complex electrical systems. Common jobs requiring an electrician include:
- Electrical panel upgrades
- Whole-house rewiring
- Troubleshooting electrical issues
- Installing new outlets and circuits
- Fixing electrical code violations
These types of jobs are critical for your home’s safety. If done incorrectly, they can lead to dangerous situations, including electrical fires. Electricians ensure that everything complies with local codes and operates safely. This is especially important when selling or buying a home, as improper wiring can fail inspections.
When to Hire a Handyman
Handymen, on the other hand, are versatile and great for simpler, low-risk tasks that don’t involve altering your home’s electrical system in a major way. Typical tasks you can call a handyman for include:
- Replacing light fixtures
- Swapping out wall outlets and switches
- Installing ceiling fans
- Mounting televisions or appliances that require minimal electrical work
- Basic home repairs and installations
While handymen can often handle small electrical jobs, they are not required to have the same certifications as electricians. If the job involves complex wiring, it’s always safer to go with a professional electrician. For example, wiring for a new kitchen appliance may seem simple, but if it requires running new circuits or upgrading your breaker panel, that’s outside the scope of a handyman.
Electricians vs. Handymen: What You Should Know
| Task | Electrician | Handyman |
|---|---|---|
| Panel upgrades | ✔ | ✘ |
| Installing ceiling fans | ✔ | ✔ |
| Rewiring a house | ✔ | ✘ |
| Fixing light switches | ✔ | ✔ |
| Mounting appliances | ✔ | ✔ |
While a handyman may be capable of handling basic jobs, always assess the risk and potential safety issues. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and call a licensed electrician. Your safety is worth it.
For More Information
If you’re unsure about whether your project requires a professional electrician or a handyman, feel free to contact Appleton Wisconsin Electrician Services for expert advice. We’re here to ensure that your home is safe, efficient, and up to code. For more information, you can also visit our Google My Business page to stay updated with our services and offerings.
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