Many do not realize that your electrical system is under greater stress during the winter months than at other times of the year. The electrical demands on your home are something you seldom think about until something goes wrong. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
1. Check Your Heating System
Your heating system works harder as the weather gets colder. It is a good idea to have it serviced to make sure everything is safe and working correctly. This service can also help you save on your electric bill and keep it working efficiently. Having a professional do an inspection and perform service is a good investment.
2. Consider Your Indoor Lighting
During the winter, you rely on interior lighting more than you might realize. It is a good time to replace old fixtures and make sure they are safe. Replacing them with energy-efficient fixtures and bulbs can help you save considerably on your winter bills.
3. Check Outdoor Lighting
If you use outdoor lighting for the holidays, it is a good idea to have an electrician check your outdoor fixtures and outlets to make sure they are weather tight. This is especially true for those that have exposed components. Taking a little extra care can make sure your system is ready for winter entertaining.
4. Be Careful With Holiday Lights and Heaters
Holiday lights and heaters are often stored until they are needed. When you are ready to take them out and plug them in, make sure to inspect them first for any damage to the cords or plugs. If electrical cords have become frayed or have sharp bends in them, it is a good idea to discard them and get another one. Also, make sure you do not plug too many into a single outlet. It is also important to plug your heaters directly into the wall instead of a power strip.
5. Prepare for Power Outages
Winter storms can take out power, and it is a good idea to have a plan. You might want to invest in a whole-home generator or whole-home surge protection. The most important thing is to make preparations and have a plan for what your family will do if there is an outage. Check into these things now before you need them.
Now, you know a few reasons why your electrical system is under greater stress during the winter months and some things you can do to make sure it is ready. Call Allstate Electric in Bentonville, AR. We are ready to do an inspection of your system and get it ready for winter.