As winter approaches, preparing your home for colder weather is key to staying warm and safe. While we often think of insulation or heating tune-ups, your electrical system also plays a critical role in maintaining comfort and safety. Here are some essential electrical tips to help get your home winter-ready.

1. Inspect and Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  • Why: With homes sealed up and heaters running, carbon monoxide exposure risks increase. Smoke detectors are also essential for wintertime safety.
  • What to Do: Test each detector and replace batteries if needed. Ensure devices are less than 10 years old and working properly.

2. Install or Upgrade Outdoor Lighting

  • Why: Winter brings shorter days, making outdoor lighting essential for security and visibility.
  • What to Do: Consider installing motion-activated lights or LED upgrades to improve energy efficiency and visibility.

3. Check Your Electrical Panel for Winter Readiness

  • Why: Higher electrical demands during winter can strain your system, particularly if you’re using additional heating sources.
  • What to Do: Have a licensed electrician check for any overloaded circuits or outdated wiring that could lead to potential hazards.

4. Inspect Heating Systems and Space Heaters

  • Why: Portable heaters can create a high demand on electrical circuits, sometimes leading to overheating.
  • What to Do: Avoid using multiple high-energy devices on the same circuit. Use heavy-duty extension cords when necessary and inspect cords for damage.

5. Surge Protection

  • Why: Winter storms can cause power surges that damage electronics and appliances.
  • What to Do: Protect your home with surge protectors and consider whole-home surge protection for added peace of mind.

6. Plan for Winter Power Outages

  • Why: Winter storms can lead to power outages, sometimes lasting for hours or even days.
  • What to Do: Have an emergency kit prepared with flashlights, batteries, and a backup power source if possible. Installing a standby generator may also be a wise investment.

By taking these steps, you’ll help ensure your electrical system can handle the demands of winter while keeping your family safe. Need assistance with winter electrical prep? Contact Norske Electric to schedule a winter readiness check today!