Ceiling fans offer a viable way to maintain cool temperatures within your Las Vegas home. Since Las Vegas has one of the warmest and driest climates in the country, many homeowners look for ways to regulate indoor temperature. Constantly running your air conditioner can raise your utility bills and subject your HVAC units to undue wear and tear. Ceiling fans help reduce the burden on AC units by circulating cool air already present in the room.
Once you decide to enjoy the perks of a new ceiling fan, you may wonder whether it is possible to install the fan as a quick weekend project on your own. The reality is that only electricians have the specialized knowledge, training, and equipment to complete the job correctly. A look at the top reasons to hire an electrician can help you make an informed decision and choose what is best for your home.
Avoid Incorrect Wiring or Electrical Problems
Installing a ceiling fan requires extensive knowledge in electricity and wiring. If even the slightest step goes wrong, you could put your home at risk of an electrical fire. For example, did you know that it is necessary to check gauge of existing ceiling wiring to verify that it is appropriate for connecting to a ceiling fan? Or that using the wiring from a previous light fixture can result in circuit trips, sparks, or electrical shock?
Fortunately, Nevada electricians have specialized training in National Electric Code (NEC). In 2017, the state of Nevada adopted the NEC as the standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment in the industry. This means that by hiring an electrician, you can ensure that your electrical work is up to code and complies with all local laws and regulations. Doing it the right way enables smooth installation and lowers the chances of dangerous electrical emergencies in the future.
Eliminate the Risk of Serious Injury
Handling any type of electrical system is highly risky if you have not been trained in the field. Even if you figure out how to turn the power off properly before getting to work, there is a chance that you could connect the wires incorrectly. In the worst-case scenario, this inappropriate wiring can cause electrocution and death. It is far better to hire electricians who do the job on a daily basis and who have the insurance and background to safeguard against any errors.
In addition to electrical injury, there is also the risk of several types of falls. Installing a ceiling fan involves climbing a ladder, grappling with the fan and blades, and attempting to get the electrical connections correct while bolting hardware into the ceiling. Even if you get a second person to help, the risk of falling or dropping the fan is very high. It is better to contact trained electricians who have safeguards in place.
Finally, some homeowners manage to mount the ceiling fan only to find that they installed some part of the hardware incorrectly. This causes the fan or blades to fall and injure whoever is in the room. Depending on the velocity, a fan or blade hurtling through the room is a serious liability. It is far simpler to have an electrician do things right the first time.
Ensure the Correct Ceiling Box
The ceiling box is an enclosure that holds the fan and wiring securely. There are many types of ceiling boxes, and choosing the correct one is a challenge if you are unfamiliar with the terminology. However, selecting the wrong box has serious consequences. A box in the wrong size can create a weight discrepancy that damages the ceiling, and an incompatible box can cause the fan to become loose and fall from the ceiling. It is better to contact an electrician who is well-versed in choosing accurate ceiling boxes from the start.
Reduce the Risk of Ceiling Damage
Replacing a light fixture with a fan or installing a fan in previously unoccupied ceiling space requires expertise. The job takes time and precision to avoid creating a crater in the ceiling. Electricians have the experience and equipment to cut the perfectly sized hole for the job. Never risk the type of damage that could lower your property value when you can simply hire a professional instead.
Save Time and Money
Reaching out to a professional actually saves time and money. Attempting to install a fan yourself can require hours of video tutorials that contain conflicting information. Even with the opportunity cost of manuals and tutorials, there is no guarantee you will get all the information you need for your unique Las Vegas home. And while you may think fan installation only needs a ladder and some common sense, it actually requires a range of materials and tools. These include wire cutters, strippers, voltage detectors, and circuit testers. Even if you try to get all the equipment on your own, gathering these supplies can cost more than hiring an electrician in the first place. Professionals already have the tools and the training required to use them.
Reach Out to a Professional Today
While a ceiling fan is a great investment, it is important to hire an electrician to install one safely and securely. Electricode provides electrical services to homes in Las Vegas and nearby areas. In addition to fan installation, we offer electrical inspections and EV charging. We can also install surge protectors, electrical panels, and smoke detectors. Contact Electricode for all electrical needs.
