Our electrical systems get quite the workout during the winter months. But there are a lot of unforeseen problems that can occur. We never think about the problems until it’s too late.
You should always keep electrical safety in mind. If you take care of it, it will take care of you. Losing power in the dead of winter is not something anyone needs.
Home Electrical Safety Tips
Being vigilant around electricity is always important, but the wintertime adds an even more dangerous element to it.
Check Your Cords
The cords to all your appliances can get old and break. They get frayed, may be damaged by pets, or just wear out. Check out the Christmas lights you bring out each year to make sure they are in working order. Always check the cord before you plug it in. Check extension cords, as well.
Don’t Overload Sockets
Plugging too many things into a single socket can cause a lot of damage. It can short out, trip the circuit breaker, or even start a fire. In the winter we plug-in space heaters, electric blankets, the Christmas lights, plus we may be using more smaller appliances, as well.
If you need more outlets, get your electrician in to add more. It’s much safer to have an upgrade to your electrical system than to overload it during winter. Do not try to do it yourself. Call a professional.
Be Careful With Christmas Lights
Use LED lights, as they use less power and don’t heat up as much. Buy the same wattages for all the lights outdoors, and indoors. Don’t mix the two. Use the outdoor lights outside and don’t connect too many strings together. Connect them from different sockets, if possible. Be careful with indoor lights on the tree and other places they may touch and start a fire.
Have a Generator Backup
Power can get cut during any kind of severe storm, but in the winter, you don’t want to be left without power too long. Having a generator to fill in will keep you and your home safe. Be sure to have it checked before the snow flies, to make sure it is in perfect working order.
Be Cautious With Space Heaters
We often like to use space heaters rather than heat the entire room. It may cut back on your electrical bill but it can be quite dangerous. Don’t ever leave them unattended. Keep them well away from furniture and drapes, and make sure they reach the socket without using an extension cord.
Be extra careful with small children, the elderly, and your pets. Keep them away from the Christmas tree and don’t leave them close to the bed. Falling sleeping with them near you can be a real problem.
Have a Carbon Monoxide Detector
Be sure your carbon monoxide detector is working. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, use coal or natural gas, it is imperative you have a functioning detector. It can save lives.
Trust The Professionals
Unless you know what you are doing, don’t mess with the electrics of your home. One wrong move can lead to several big problems. You should always have your electrical system inspected, at least once a year.
Call Fusion Electric for your electrical inspection, an upgrade, or any problems you may have this winter. Locally owned and operated, a registered Johnson County, KS electrician in Overland Park, and are insured to serve the entire Kansas City Metro area. From residential to commercial electrical services, our electricians in Kansas City, Overland Park, Lenexa, Olathe, Shawnee, Leawood, and Mission, Kansas can handle everything from simple electrical repairs to upgrades to installations.
