Winter weather in the DC Metro area brings a unique set of challenges that homeowners need to prepare for. When making sure your home is ready for winter, don’t ignore your electrical system! Electrical maintenance is often overlooked, but it is a vital part of keeping your family safe. From checking for potential hazards to protecting your system from surges, the following tips from our electricians at Kolb Electric will help you make sure your home is winter-ready.
Check for leaks
Winter weather can be harsh, and water leaks can lead to serious electrical problems. Moisture from leaking windows, roofs or pipes can easily seep into your home’s electrical wiring and cause short circuits or fire hazards. Check your home carefully for any signs of water leaks, especially around areas where electrical outlets and wires are installed. If you suspect a leak, contact a professional plumber or home services contractor to make the necessary repairs. Fixing leaks early can prevent larger, more serious electrical problems in the future.
Check your electrical panel
Your electrical panel is responsible for providing power to your electrical systems and appliances, so it is important to make sure it is in good working order. Winter often brings increased use of heating systems, lights, and appliances, which can put additional stress on the system. If your panel is old or overloaded, you run the risk of tripping breakers or even causing an electrical fire.
To make sure your electrical panel can handle your family’s energy needs this winter, check for any signs of corrosion, rust, or other damage. Also make sure the circuit breakers are working properly and are not tripped. If your panel is old or if you experience frequent power outages, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Our licensed electrician can help determine if your electrical panel needs an upgrade.
Check your smoke alarms
Winter increases reliance on heating systems, space heaters, and additional electrical uses, all of which can increase the risk of a home fire. Since smoke detectors are your first line of defense against a house fire, it is important to make sure your smoke detectors are in good working order. Replace the batteries if necessary and test the alarms by pressing the test button.
Check your carbon monoxide detectors
In addition to smoke alarms, it’s important to check your carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in large quantities. This is especially dangerous in the winter months when homes are tightly sealed and heating systems are running.
Make sure your detectors are working properly by testing them and replacing the batteries if necessary. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed near sleeping areas and any fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, stoves, or water heaters. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, now is a good time to install one.
Trimming overgrown trees
Winter storms can down power lines if overgrown trees are left unchecked. When snow and ice accumulate on branches, it can easily break and fall onto electrical lines, causing power outages or even starting fires. Have trees on your property inspected and have any branches too close to power lines trimmed by a professional.
Use surge protectors
Winter storms can cause power surges, which can damage your appliances and electronics. Investing in surge protectors is a simple way to protect your devices from sudden voltage surges. Surge protectors can help prevent damage to expensive equipment such as televisions, computers, and game consoles. Although using individual surge protectors is helpful, consider installing a whole-home surge protector for maximum protection.
Contact Kolb Electric for professional electrical services
If you need help with your home’s electrical systems, contact the Kolb Electric team! We’ve been serving homeowners throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. since 1925, so we know what it takes to prepare your electrical system for winter weather in our area. Whether you need us to install smoke detectors and surge protectors or repair faulty electrical systems, we have what you need.
Contact Kolb Electric today to schedule electrical services in the DC Metro area.
