Outdoor electrical installations are dangerous work, so familiarity with safe electrical practices is necessary to prevent shocks, fires, or injury to yourself. Every aspect of installation needs careful consideration, from the materials you choose to how you install them.

Since so much can go wrong, rely on Miller’s Heating & Air Conditioning to handle all your outdoor electrical needs. But if you can’t resist the call of an intense DIY project, keep reading for crucial safety tips.

Start With Safe Materials

Buying the right materials upfront will save you money later. Buying the wrong materials will not only make you buy them all over again when something goes wrong, but serious situations could make you pay for fire damage repairs or hospital visits.

Only buy weather-resistant fixtures and wires so rain doesn’t get into them and cause problems. You may also need PVC pipes and pressure-treated wood, depending on the project. Remember that steel conducts electricity as you choose materials.

Use the Right Protection

Protecting yourself properly will be the key to avoiding accidents while installing the electrical work and using the fixtures afterward. You can never be too careful, so it’s better to “overdo it” than to not have enough safety measures in place.

Keep yourself safe with the following practices:

• GFCI outlets are waterproof electrical outlets that will trip when there are circuit issues.
• Support cables under concrete with pressure-treated wood or other sturdy material that follows electrical codes.
• Conduits can be metal or PVC and protect wires from moisture and other damage.
• Elevate outlets at least one foot above the ground to prevent moisture damage.
• Use duct sealing around conduit fittings to prevent water or other debris from entering.

Electrical Code Compliance Is a Must

Always ensure you’re following electrical codes. You may be fined and have to redo the entire project if you don’t, but more importantly, failing to follow the codes could cause you or your loved ones serious injury. From proper grounding conductors to fixture installation, do your research before starting outdoor electrical installations so you don’t end up with a fire or other catastrophe the next time it rains.

Electrical codes are put into place by the National Electrical Code or NEC. However, always check with local laws to ensure there aren’t extra steps you need to take. When in doubt, call an electrician to inspect your work to ensure it’s safe.

Let the Professionals Handle It for You

Miller’s Heating & Air Conditioning offers electrical safety inspections for indoor and outdoor electrical installations. If you enjoy DIY projects, give us a call and we’ll double-check your work to ensure you’re on the right track.

But if the work is too complicated or you can’t keep track of all the underground wiring tips you’ve read, give us a call at (757) 623-6600 and we’ll install your project for you safely. As fun as weekend projects may be, it’s better to get it done correctly the first time so you can save money. Reach out to us to learn more.