How to Safeguard Your Electrical System for Storms
Posted on June 24, 2024
When storms roll through, they bring more than just winds and rain; they can cause your home’s electrical system all sorts of trouble. A bit of preparation can go a long way in ensuring that your home stays safe and you avoid annoying and costly disruptions. In this blog post, we will explore tips to protect your home and your electrical system from potential damage.
Inspect Your Electrical Systems
When it comes to summer storm preparedness, regular inspection and maintenance are of the highest importance. Storms can bring unpredictable weather conditions involving strong winds, heavy rains, and even hail, all of which can wreak havoc on an unprepared electrical system. One of the first things you can do is to have a thorough look at your home's main electrical panel. Watch out for any signs of rust, frayed wires, or burning smells. These are red flags that need immediate attention. It's also important to examine all outdoor electrical outlets and make sure they have watertight covers to prevent any water seepage. A common but often overlooked area is the condition of your surge protectors. Make certain they’re not overloaded and are still functioning properly. Replacing old or faulty surge protectors could save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Aside from the electrical panel and surge protectors, pay attention to the grounding system. A proper grounding system can direct excess electrical energy away from your home, minimizing the risk of electrical fires or damage during a storm. Check if the ground rods are firmly entrenched and that the connection to your electrical panel is intact. Take a walk around your property and make sure any overhead power lines are clear of tree branches and other obstacles. Trim trees if necessary to ensure they won’t interfere with power lines during high winds. And don't forget indoor inspections—look at all your circuit breakers to make sure they aren't tripping frequently, which could indicate a bigger problem.
Invest in Surge Protectors
Surge protection plays an important role when safeguarding your electrical system during a storm. Picture this: During a lightning storm, millions of volts of electricity could potentially strike near your home. Without surge protection, this sudden spike in voltage can fry your electrical devices, damage wiring, and even cause fires. Here's where surge protectors come in handy—they act like guardians for your electronic devices and electrical system, absorbing the excess energy and preventing it from causing any further issues. You've got a few options when it comes to surge protectors. Whole-house surge protectors, installed at your electrical panel, protect your entire electrical system. This defense is really your first line of protection, catching surges before they get into your home's wiring.
On the other hand, point-of-use surge protectors are designed for specific devices like computers, televisions, and home entertainment systems. They're easily plugged into an outlet and offer an extra layer of protection. For critical appliances and electronics, you might want to use both types of surge protection to ensure maximum safety. Now, installing a whole-house surge protector is a more complex task that generally requires a licensed electrician to make sure it's done safely and correctly. Trust me, this isn't something you want to DIY. When in doubt, always check the instructions or consult with an expert.
Backup Power Solutions: Generators
Backup power solutions like generators are indispensable when you're bracing for severe summer storms. Storms can knock out power, leaving you and your family in the dark—not fun, right? There are several types of generators suitable for home use, each with their own set of pros and cons. First off, let's talk about portable generators. These are quite versatile, relatively affordable, and can be moved around easily. You simply plug your key appliances into the generator, and you're good to go. The downside? They rely on gasoline or propane, which means you'll need to store fuel safely, and you'll have to start them manually. Plus, they can be noisy, so you might not be your neighbor's best friend during a stormy night. Then, there are standby generators. These are permanently installed outside your home and connect directly to your electrical system. The best part? They kick in automatically when the power goes out. They run on natural gas or propane and offer much more power than their portable counterparts. But, they are a more significant investment and require professional installation, as well as regular maintenance.
When it comes to generator installation for summer storms, it's crucial to follow some essential steps. Proper placement is vital. Generators should be placed outdoors, at least 5 feet away from doors, windows, and vent openings to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If you're opting for a standby generator, make sure a licensed electrician handles the installation. They'll ensure it's connected correctly to your electrical panel, grounding system, and fuel supply. For portable generators, use heavy-duty extension cords designed for outdoor use, and never, ever run them inside your home, basement, or garage. Ready for storm prep? Test your generator monthly to make sure it's in working order. Check fuel levels and top off if needed. Keep your owner’s manual handy for troubleshooting tips. Doing all of this ensures your generator will be ready to go when you need it most.
During summer storm prep, if you already have a generator, routine maintenance is your best friend. Change the oil and air filters regularly and inspect the fuel system for leaks or signs of wear. If you’re not comfortable with DIY maintenance or installation, call in a pro. Safety first, always. A professional can also help you determine the right size generator for your home, ensuring it meets your specific power needs without overloading.
Create a Summer Storm Safety Checklist
Creating a summer storm safety checklist is a fundamental part of summer storm preparedness. Start by securing all outdoor electrical fixtures. This includes double-checking that your outdoor lights, outlets, and wiring are weatherproof and secured to avoid damage from high winds or heavy rain. Next, make sure to unplug any unnecessary electronics during a storm. This simple action can protect your devices from power surges. Familiarize yourself with your home's main power switch and know how to turn it off if necessary. It’s a lifesaver in extreme cases where you need to cut off electricity quickly. As part of summer electrical safety, install a whole-house surge protector if you haven’t done so already. This safeguards your entire electrical system from sudden spikes in voltage. A point-of-use surge protector for individual devices can add another layer of protection. If you haven’t looked into backup power solutions, now’s the time. A generator can keep essential appliances running during an outage. For those with existing generators, routine maintenance is key. Check fuel levels, run a monthly test, and replace the oil and filters as needed. Secure your generator to prevent theft. Considering adding a transfer switch to link your generator directly to your electrical panel, ensuring systems stay powered. Never overlook the importance of regular maintenance checks on your grounding system, outdoor outlets, and surge protectors.
By following these summer electrical safety tips, you'll be well-prepared to handle whatever the storm season brings. Always remember, when in doubt, call in a pro. A licensed electrician can provide a thorough inspection, ensuring a storm-ready electrical system.
Wrapping Up
By now, you should see how vital it is to get ahead of those summer storms by prepping your electrical system. From checking your main panel to ensuring your surge protectors and generators are in top shape, every step adds a layer of security to your home. Remember, when in doubt, it's always a good idea to bring in the pros.
At Fix It All Electric, we understand the importance of keeping your home running smoothly and safely. That's why we offer a wide range of services to meet all your electrical needs. As a leading electrical contractor in Wasco, our team of experts specializes in residential, industrial, agricultural, and power line services. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service, from installation and troubleshooting to area lighting and security lighting. As a Latina family-owned business, we take pride in serving our community and delivering top-notch electrical services. With our electrical services, you can keep your summer fun and your home safe from any unexpected electrical mishaps. Need a hand with those pool lights flickering or your HVAC acting up?
Reach us out at +1 (661) 709 5233. Together, we can ensure your electrical system holds strong against whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
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