5 Ways An Electrician Can Prepare Your Residential Electrical System For Winter

Posted on: 24 February 2022

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Winter weather can put a strain on your home's electrical system. You need to be ready for potential power outage problems and storm damage. The last thing you want is to wake up to no lights, no hot showers, no heat, or other power outage inconveniences. A residential electrician can take a few steps to prepare your electrical system for winter. This may involve installing generators, power surge protectors, or upgrading your panel. Here are five ways a professional electrician can prepare your home for the coming winter season. 

Generator Installation 

It's common to have power outages during winter storms. When the power goes off, the circuits in your home may go out unexpectedly, causing many of your appliances, lights, and heating systems to stop working. A power outage can last for a few minutes or several days depending on the severity of the storm. If you have a generator installed in your home, you won't have to worry about power outages. The generator will automatically turn on when there's a power outage, which ensures a continuous power supply to essential appliances. 

Surge Protector Installation 

Power surges can happen when there is a sudden increase in voltage in your home's electrical system, which may occur due to lightning strikes. When lightning strikes your power lines, it can influence a significant spike in voltage, which can damage your electrical system and electronics. Lightning is common during harsh winter seasons, which explains the need to prepare your electrical system for such. A professional electrician can install a power surge protector to protect your electrical system from power surges.

Insulation of Open Cables 

Inspecting open cables in crawl spaces, basement, or attics is one of the key parts of preparing a residence for winter. Open cables could be exposed to water damage or other issues that may affect the power supply to part or all of your house. Snow falls that cause ice buildup could also freeze up exposed cables causing them not to work properly anymore. If you live in an area prone to snowfall, it's important to have an electrician inspect and insulate any open cables before winter arrives. 

Upgrading Your Electrical Panel 

If you live in an older home or have been experiencing power surges, flickering lights, and other electrical issues, you may need to upgrade your electric panel before winter. An outdated or faulty electric panel can lead to fires and other hazards. One of the best ways to prepare your residential electrical system for winter is by upgrading your electric panel. This can be done by adding subpanels or circuit breakers. An upgraded electric panel will reduce the risk of having electricity problems when using new devices or appliances during the winter season.

Before winter begins, contact a professional electrician to inspect your electrical system to ensure it's safe and sustainable.