Electrical Fixes You Can Do Yourself (and What to Avoid)

When something electrical stops working in your home, it’s tempting to fix it yourself—especially with hundreds of DIY videos a click away. And for many small tasks, you can. But electricity isn’t like patching drywall or fixing a leaky faucet. The risks are higher, and mistakes can be dangerous.

The key is knowing which jobs are safe for a DIYer—and which ones should only be handled by a professional.

As a handyman serving homes across Central Florida, I’ve seen what can go wrong when a well-meaning homeowner bites off more than they should. So, this guide will help you identify safe, simple electrical fixes you can tackle on your own and clearly explain what to leave to the pros.

Electrical Repairs You Can Do Yourself

These low-risk tasks typically don’t require direct contact with electrical wiring. Still, always turn off the power at the breaker and test the outlet or switch before doing anything.

Replace a Light Switch Cover or Outlet Plate
If the plastic cover on your switch or outlet is cracked or outdated, you can swap it out with a screwdriver. This is a cosmetic fix that doesn't involve wiring.

Change a Light Bulb or Fixture Shade
Unscrewing a burnt-out bulb or updating a globe or glass shade on a ceiling fixture is completely safe. Just make sure the light is turned off, and always use the correct bulb wattage.

Install Plug-in Smart Devices
Devices like plug-in smart plugs, nightlights, or motion-sensor adapters don’t require any hardwiring. They’re great for adding functionality to your home without touching your electrical system.

Reset a Tripped Breaker
If your power goes out in a single room, check the breaker box. Look for a switch in the "off" or middle position and flip it back on. If the same breaker trips repeatedly, it’s time to call a pro.

Install Battery-Powered Smoke or CO Alarms
Most newer homes have hardwired detectors, but many Florida homes (especially older ones) still rely on battery-operated units. These are safe to install or replace without any electrical work.

Swap Out Lightbulbs for LEDs
Upgrading to energy-efficient bulbs is one of the easiest and smartest electrical improvements you can make. It’s safe—just avoid touching the metal base and allow the bulbs to cool before removal.

Electrical Repairs You Shouldn’t Do Yourself

Anything involving open wires, hardwiring, or electrical panels comes with risk. Florida homes—especially older block homes—often have outdated systems, hidden junction boxes, or aluminum wiring that requires special handling.

If your fix involves any of the following, stop and call a licensed electrician or experienced handyman:

Replacing an Outlet or Switch
It looks simple, but swapping out outlets or switches involves wiring. If you get one connection wrong, you could cause a fire hazard or short out the circuit. GFCI outlets, required in kitchens and bathrooms, are especially tricky to install correctly.

Installing or Moving Light Fixtures
This includes ceiling fans, chandeliers, pendant lights, or any fixture that connects to a ceiling box. Improper mounting or wiring can lead to electrocution or serious fire hazards, especially in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or patios.

Adding New Outlets or Circuits
Running new wiring, tapping into junction boxes, or installing new outlets is not DIY territory. These changes often require permits and must meet code. Done wrong, they can overload your circuit, shock someone, or void your homeowner’s insurance.

Working Inside the Breaker Panel
Don’t open or work inside your electrical panel unless you're a licensed electrician. The risk of electrocution is real—even if the main switch is off.

Diagnosing Power Loss or Flickering
If you notice flickering lights, buzzing outlets, or half-dead circuits, don’t ignore them. These symptoms can indicate faulty wiring, an overloaded circuit, or aging breakers—all requiring professional attention.

What Florida Homeowners Should Know About Electrical Code

In Florida, most electrical work must meet National Electrical Code (NEC) standards and local building codes. This includes:

• GFCI protection in wet areas (kitchens, bathrooms, garages)

• Tamper-resistant outlets in homes with children

• Proper circuit loads for appliances like microwaves or air conditioners

• Grounding requirements for fixtures and panels

Even a seemingly minor change, like replacing a kitchen outlet, must be done correctly to remain compliant. Improper wiring may go unnoticed until there’s a fire, a failed inspection, or an insurance claim denial.

Safety Tips for Every DIYer

If you do choose to tackle basic electrical tasks, follow these rules every time:

• Always turn off the power at the breaker, not just the wall switch

• Use a voltage tester to confirm there’s no live current

• Wear rubber-soled shoes and avoid working near water

• Never force wires into a box or outlet—overcrowding is a fire risk

• Label breakers clearly to make future work easier and safer

If you're not 100% confident, stop and ask for help.

How a Handyman Can Help

If the job is somewhere in between—like replacing light fixtures, installing dimmer switches, or upgrading outdated outlets—a qualified handyman can often handle it more affordably and efficiently than a full electrical contractor.

At Moxie Home Pros, we help Central Florida homeowners with everyday electrical repairs and upgrades that make their homes safer, brighter, and more modern. Whether you need a ceiling fan installed, an old outlet replaced, or motion-sensor lighting added to your porch, we’ve got the tools and experience to do it right.

Final Thoughts

Knowing your limits is one of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner, especially regarding electricity. While there are a few safe, simple projects you can tackle yourself, most wiring-related work is best left to a professional.

Don’t gamble with your safety—or your home’s wiring.

Visit www.moxiehomepros.com to request a free estimate or schedule your next home electrical upgrade. We serve Orlando, Winter Park, Maitland, Oviedo, and surrounding Central Florida areas.

Let the Moxie Home Pros handle it—and keep your home shock-free.