The recent storms in Dubai meant a lot of people suffered major issues with their home electrics, including complete blackouts.

While it might be tempting to dive into DIY electrical repairs, it’s essential to approach them with caution. Electrical issues can be hazardous and require expertise to handle them safely.

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts from the Breathe experts to keep in mind.

What you SHOULD do when it comes to electrical repairs…

Prioritise Safety: Safety should always be your top priority when dealing with electrical repairs. Before attempting any fixes, ensure that the power to the area you’re working on is turned off from the circuit breaker. Additionally, wear insulated gloves and eye protection to minimise the risk of accidents.

Know Your Limits: While minor electrical tasks such as changing a lightbulb or resetting a tripped circuit breaker can be handled by homeowners, complex issues should be left to professionals. Recognise when a problem exceeds your expertise and get in a licensed electrician to avoid personal injury or property damage.

Regular Maintenance Checks: Schedule regular inspections of your home’s electrical system to identify potential issues before they escalate. Look out for frayed wires, loose outlets, and flickering lights, and address them promptly to prevent accidents and ensure the longevity of your electrical system.

Invest in Surge Protection: Dubai’s electrical grid is prone to voltage fluctuations, which can damage sensitive electronics and appliances. Get surge protectors installed throughout your home to safeguard your devices from power surges and extend their lifespan.

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: When installing new electrical appliances or fixtures, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously. Improper installation can not only void the warranty but also pose safety hazards.

What you SHOULDN’T do when it comes to electrical repairs…

Ignore Warning Signs: Ignoring warning signs such as burning smells, sparking outlets, or frequent circuit breaker trips is a recipe for disaster. These symptoms often indicate underlying electrical issues that require immediate attention. Ignoring them can lead to electrical fires or electric shocks.

Use Improper Tools: Using the wrong tools or equipment for electrical repairs can result in accidents or damage to your home’s electrical system. Invest in high quality tools specifically designed for electrical work, and refrain from improvising with makeshift solutions. Better still, get expert help.

Overload Circuits: Overloading electrical circuits by connecting too many appliances or devices to a single outlet can cause overheating and electrical fires. Distribute your electrical load evenly across multiple outlets and avoid daisy-chaining power strips or extension cords.

Work on Wet Surfaces: NEVER attempt electrical repairs in damp or wet conditions, as water is an excellent conductor of electricity and significantly increases the risk of electric shocks. Wait until the area is dry before proceeding with any repairs.

Disregard Building Codes: Dubai has stringent building codes and regulations governing electrical installations to ensure safety and compliance. Disregarding these codes not only puts you at risk but can also result in legal repercussions. Always adhere to local regulations when making electrical modifications to your home.

Remember, when in doubt, always seek professional assistance to avoid potential hazards.

Worried about your electrics? Reach out to the Breathe team today.