When do you need an electrician? That depends on you, and your local code. In some areas, the homeowner is limited in the types of electrical work he or she is allowed to perform. Check with the code department in your city. Some people may not like or feel comfortable with such tasks, and prefer to hire them done. However, if you enjoy working around the house, or would like to learn, there are several projects the average homeowner can tackle. These include changing a regular light switch to a dimmer switch; installing a light fixture; re-wiring a lamp or replacing the socket; and putting in a gfci outlet. Just remember: never work on a live circuit; consult a good do-it-yourself manual, and always follow instructions carefully. If you have any doubts about a project, no matter how simple, it's best to consult an electrician. Furthermore, there are some tasks that simply demand an electrical expert: a few examples are installing the wiring for new construction; hooking up central heating or air conditioning; panel upgrades; and any installation of wiring around water.
