Follow these six tips to protect your home in Winston-Salem, NC from electrical issues this winter
Table of Contents
Follow these six tips
Check all outdoor electrical outlets
Inspect your electrical outlets
Invest in a surge protector
Add insulation
Be mindful of space heaters
Don’t overload your outlets
Conclusion
Key Learnings:
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Surge protectors are mandatory to help protect against power surges
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Keep your electrical system by adding insulation
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Don’t overload your home’s outlets, especially in the winter when we use more appliances
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Space heaters help keep you warm but if not handled correctly can be harmful in your home
Follow these six tips to make sure your home is protected from electrical issues this winter.
Winter can be a beautiful time of the year, but it can also be dangerous. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on our homes and property, including our electrical systems.
Electrical issues are one of the most common causes of house fires, and it’s critical that homeowners take steps to protect their homes from potential hazards. Here, we’ll outline some tips and tricks to help you safeguard your home’s electrical system this winter.
1. Check all of your outdoor electrical outlets, lights, and appliances that use electricity.
Getting the outside of your home ready for the winter months is a great time to check your outdoor electrical outlets and connections for problems. Check to make sure:
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Check for loose wiring
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Check for melted or burnt wiring
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Replace missing or damaged outlet covers
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Unplug and stow in a safe, dry place outdoor appliances that are not used in winter months
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Pour out any liquids (water fountains, etc.) that could freeze or become electrical hazards
By making a proactive effort to clean up your electrical presence outside of your home you will improve safety and minimize the chance of electrical accidents. Fortus Electric are skilled residential electricians in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina, and can help with all of your residential electrical needs. Complete our Request a Quote for help with your electrical needs.
2. Inspect your Electrical System
Before the winter season, it’s important to take some time to inspect your home’s electrical system. Check all outlets, appliances, lighting fixtures, and electrical cords to make sure they are in good working order. Look for signs of wear and tear, like frayed cords, loose connections, and damaged outlets. If you find any problems, have them fixed by a licensed electrician as soon as possible.
3. Invest in a Surge Protector
Power surges are another common electrical issue that homeowners face, and they can cause serious damage to your appliances and electronics. Installing a surge protector in your home is an easy and effective way to protect against these sudden spikes in voltage. Surge protectors are especially important during the winter months when electrical storms are more frequent.
4. Add Insulation
Upgrading your home’s insulation can help protect your electrical system by keeping it from freezing or getting too hot. Insulation will help keep your home warm and your electrical system safe from the elements. Check with a licensed Fortus Electric electrician or HVAC professional to determine the best insulation options for your home.
5. Be Mindful of Space Heaters
Space heaters can be a great way to keep your home warm during the winter, but they can also be dangerous if not used correctly. To avoid electrical issues, make sure that you plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet instead of an extension cord. Keep your space heater at least three feet away from furniture, bedding, or anything else that could catch fire.
6. Don’t Overload Your Outlets
Electrical outlets can be easily overloaded during the winter months when we’re using more appliances and electronics. Avoid plugging multiple appliances into one outlet or socket, as it can cause a fire. If you need additional outlets in your home, consider having a licensed electrician install them for you.
Conclusion
Electrical issues are a common problem for homeowners during the winter months. By following these simple tips and tricks, however, you can help protect your home from potential hazards and ensure that your electrical system stays safe and functional throughout the season. Don’t wait until it’s too late; take action now to safeguard your home and property. Contact an experienced electrician if you have any concerns about the safety and functionality of your electrical system. Stay warm, stay safe!
Additional Resources For Winterizing Your Home:
Palisades Credit Union: First-Time homeowners checklist for winterizing your home
Home Depot: Winter Home Maintenance Checklist
Lowes: 14 Ways to Winterize your Home
More Learnings from Fortus Electric
