this post was submitted on 28 Sep 2024
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I feel like it depends on the scope of the thing. I've done things such as like-for-like replacements of outlets and fixtures, soldering plumbing supply lines, and changing out a capacitor and a blower on my HVAC, and felt reasonably comfortable doing so. Things like running an entirely new electrical circuit, doing plumbing drain and vent lines, and diagnosing/fixing/recharging a refrigerant line issue or designing a new system (with Manual J calculations) would be considerably more intimidating.
(Also in the realm of electricity, there's one thing I've done that was 'on the bubble' of being beyond my confidence: I replaced a closet wall that had an outlet on it and needed to move it over such that the existing wires no longer reached, so I added a second outlet higher in the wall and facing into the closet so that I could run new wires from the closer box to the further one without burying splices or having a blank box. I think it's fine, but I'm not 100% sure it's free of code violations.)
I will never forget this joke told to me by an old shop master.
What do you call an electrician that does a carpenters job?
A bad carpenter.
What do you call a carpenter that does an electricians job?
Dead.
When it comes to electricity I think any rule discouraging calling a professional would be irresponsible and dangerous. DIY advice can absolutely include info on how to hire and ensure you get a good honest deal from a contractor IMO.