Cut Costs and Stay Cozy

Winter is the perfect time to make electrical upgrades that improve safety, comfort, and efficiency in your home. From adding extra outlets for space heaters and holiday décor to upgrading your electrical panel for modern appliances, the right improvements can give you peace of mind all season long. At Norske Electric, we help Minneapolis homeowners prepare for freezing temperatures with services like whole-home surge protection, generator installation, and lighting upgrades. Call us today at (952) 443-4113 or schedule service online to get your home winter-ready.Electric bills tend to climb in December and January. Focus on high‑impact upgrades that pay back quickly in Minnesota’s long heating season.

High‑Impact Winter Upgrades

• Programmable or smart thermostat: Automate setbacks and track usage; pair with room sensors for even heat.
• LED lighting: Target kitchens, living rooms, and exteriors; consider dimmable, warm‑white lamps for comfort.
• Reverse ceiling fans: Clockwise on low to gently recirculate warm air from the ceiling.
• Seal drafts: Weatherstrip doors/windows and add foam gaskets behind exterior‑wall outlets/switches.

See Residential Electrical Services for professional installations and wiring improvements.

Ready to schedule? Call (952) 443-4113 or request service online today.

Winter Electrical Upgrade FAQs

What electrical upgrades help lower heating costs in winter?
Installing a programmable or smart thermostat, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, and sealing up electrical outlets against drafts can all help reduce energy bills during cold Minnesota winters.

Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel before adding a generator or space heaters?
Possibly. If your panel is older or already at capacity, adding extra load from generators, heaters, or new appliances can cause tripped breakers. An electrician can check if an upgrade is needed for safe winter use.

Can outdoor lighting be installed in winter?
Yes! Weather-rated outdoor lighting and outlets can be installed year-round. Winter is actually a great time to add floodlights or motion-sensor lighting for safety during long dark evenings.

Is it safe to use space heaters with older wiring?
Not always. Space heaters draw a lot of power and can overload outdated circuits. If your home still has old wiring or frequent breaker trips, have an electrician inspect your system before relying on space heaters.

What’s the best backup power option for winter storms?
A standby generator is the most reliable solution for power outages caused by ice or snowstorms. It automatically turns on when the power goes out, keeping your heat, lights, and appliances running.