We all use more energy in the winter months. The heating is on, the lights are on longer due to shorter or stormy days, and we are cooking more indoors. But there can be electrical problems with the extra demand for our systems during winter.
We always expect the power to be there when we flick the switch, but we may be asking too much. Here are some electrical problems you should be aware of this winter.
6 Common Electrical Problems in Winter
It’s not just the increase in our energy bill we need to be aware of. Overtaxing our electrical system can cause it to shut down or even start fires.
Tripping Circuit Breakers
It’s easy to do. Once you have the heating on, all the lights on, the overworking, all the extras, like electric blankets, stereos, televisions, charging several devices, it can overload the system.
Once you add the Christmas lights on the house and the tree, it can cause the breaker to trip. If your lights are flickering, it may be a sign the system is trying to do more than it is capable of.
Old Equipment
This can be anything from an old electric blanket to an outdated oven. Your space heater may be too old and taking up way more energy than needed. This goes for the humidifier, fans, and even the old toaster oven. This includes your entire electrical system.
Also, check all your extension cords, Christmas light cords, and even the old tv the kids watch in the basement. They can all be a fire hazard and use up way more energy than is necessary. Frayed wires can injure you and cause a lot of damage.
Strange Noises and Smells
If you can hear a buzzing or humming noise, or even are picking up the scent of burning wires, it’s time to get serious. This includes sparks coming out of a socket if you notice a black or charred spot around the plugin, there are melted parts on the outlet, or you get a shock when you plug it in.
Burning Out Lightbulbs
If lightbulbs are not lasting very long, there could be a serious problem with the electrical system, the cord of lights. If the bulb is of low wattage, it may just be burning out because there is too much power shooting into it.
Power Outages and Surges
Power outages can occur for several reasons. Overworking your entire electrical system, the entire grid getting taxed due to the extra power needed, and the weather.
Winter storms can knock down wires and power poles, freeze systems, and just make it more difficult to get the power flowing. Freezing pipes can burst and that can short out your entire electrical system.
Power surges can also cause a lot of damage, causing circuit panels to overload, shoot too much power into your appliances and electrical sockets, causing damage, or even fire.
Pests
Animals can seek refuge in your basement, rooftop, and crawl space. They will cause a lot of damage, chewing wires and making a mess. They can also get in behind your walls.
Get an Inspection
The best way to get ahead of any problems you may encounter throughout the winter is to have an inspection. Electrical problems are never at the forefront of our minds until we are having them.
Contact Fusion Electric today for an inspection or get a quote to upgrade your electrical system. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
