Spring is prime time for home improvement projects. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, or finally building that backyard patio, it’s easy to get caught up in the design decisions paint colors, fixtures, finishes but don’t overlook your electrical system.
At Top Notch Electrician, we work alongside homeowners and contractors throughout North Texas to make sure renovations are safe, code-compliant, and built to last. If you’re taking on a project this season, here’s what you need to know about electrical safety and planning.
Why Electrical Work Should Be Part of the Planning Process
Many homeowners start a project and only call an electrician when something doesn’t work or worse, after a mistake has already been made. The best time to involve an electrician is at the beginning, especially for any renovation that involves:
- Moving walls or changing the room layout
- Adding or relocating appliances
- Installing lighting or ceiling fans
- Running power to new rooms, garages, or outdoor areas
- Upgrading HVAC or water heating systems
- Adding a home office, media room, or smart devices
Renovations often increase the demand on your system. If your panel is already near capacity, adding new circuits could trip breakers or cause long-term damage.
Top Electrical Safety Tips for Renovation Season
1. Don’t DIY Electrical Work
Even if you’re handy, electrical work is not the place to cut corners. Mistakes can lead to shocks, fire hazards, and code violations. In Texas, major electrical work legally requires a licensed electrician. It’s also worth noting: DIY electrical work may avoid your homeowner’s insurance if something goes wrong.
2. Always Turn Off Power at the Panel Before Starting
If you’re doing light demo or removing fixtures before your electrician arrives, cut power to the entire area first. Don’t assume flipping a light switch off is enough. Use a voltage tester before touching any wires.
3. Use GFCI Protection in Wet or Outdoor Areas
Bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and patios all require GFCI outlets to protect against shock in damp environments. If your renovation includes these spaces, make sure GFCIs are installed and tested after installation.
4. Upgrade Outdated Wiring or Panels While You’re In There
If the walls are already open, take advantage of the access to replace ageing or undersized wiring. Many older homes in North Texas still have:
- Knob-and-tube wiring
- Aluminum branch wiring
- Two-prong outlets with no ground
- Fuse boxes instead of breaker panels
These systems are not just outdated by their potential fire risks. It’s far more cost-effective to upgrade them during a renovation than wait until something fails.
5. Install Dedicated Circuits for New Appliances
If your renovation includes new kitchen appliances, an HVAC system, a hot tub, or even a home office setup, make sure you have dedicated circuits installed. Sharing circuits with other outlets or lights can lead to overloads and nuisance tripping.
6. Ensure Proper Permits and Code Compliance
Any electrical work done during a renovation must comply with local building codes and may require a permit. Working with a licensed electrician ensures everything is done to protect your home, your investment, and your safety.
At Top Notch Electrician, we handle all permitting and inspections as part of the job, so you don’t have to stress about it.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Futureproofing While you’re upgrading, think ahead:
- Add USB outlets in convenient spots
- Pre-wire for security cameras, audio systems, or EV chargers
- Install smart switches or lighting controls
- Plan for home office power needs if working remotely
A little foresight now means you won’t be tearing into your walls again in two years.
Start Smart Call Top Notch First
Electrical work is one of the most critical parts of a successful renovation. Poor planning or improper installation can lead to expensive fixes, failed inspections, or dangerous conditions.
When you bring in Top Notch Electrician, we will help you.
- Evaluate your current system
- Design safe, efficient wiring layouts
- Install outlets, lighting, panels, and smart systems
- Make sure everything passes the first time
Planning a Spring Project? Let’s Talk
Before you start knocking down walls or installing new fixtures, let’s make sure your electrical system is ready. Call 972 397 8646 or visit www.topnotchelectrician.com to schedule your renovation walk-through today. We’ll help you do it right the first time.