Electrical

Electrical mistakes can start fires long after the job is done, so start with the rules. Who may do electrical work in a home depends on where you live. In Ontario, homeowners may work on their own home but must file a notification with the Electrical Safety Authority first. Other provinces and states may require a licensed electrician. Our guide to when to call a licensed pro covers the details, and do you need a permit shows how to check your city.

We only include electrical videos from licensed trades or established trade sources that show the breaker being shut off and the circuit being tested. Every time: turn off the breaker, then confirm it’s dead with a non-contact voltage tester.

Common jobs here are replacing an outlet and replacing a light switch. If a breaker keeps tripping or an outlet is warm or scorched, stop and call an electrician. Panel and service work is never DIY.