Winter has arrived, bringing with it snow and cozy hot chocolate moments. However, it also brings along some dangerous electrical problems. Lights flickering and overloading circuits can cause fires and become disastrous. But don’t worry! We have gathered electrical solutions for six common winter problems to keep your home cozy and safe all season long. Here are some of them:
Space heaters, those trusty companions during chilly nights, come with their own set of risks. Shockingly, they contribute to around 21,800 house fires each year and result in approximately 300 tragic fatalities, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Beyond the safety hazards they pose to people and property, they also consume a hefty amount of electricity.
To avoid damaging your home, install space heaters equipped with safety features like automatic shut-off mechanisms when tipped over and temperature regulators to prevent overheating. Furthermore, plug these heaters directly into wall outlets and avoid using extension cords as they handle the high wattage of space heaters.
Ever experienced lights flickering like a scene from a suspense movie? Fluorescent bulbs, for example, are notorious for flickering in colder temperatures. You may notice some flickering if you use LED bulbs with dimmer switches. This common winter problem is often caused by fluctuations in electrical currents, especially when power-demanding appliances like heaters or electric blankets are in use.
First, check if your light bulbs are firmly screwed in, as loose bulbs can cause flickering. Moreover, pair the dimmer switches with dimmer bulbs to prevent LED bulbs from flickering. If the issue persists, it might be time to call in an electrician. They can assess your electrical panel and give electrical solutions so that it can handle the increased power demand during the winter without causing disruptions.
Winter storms can turn picturesque landscapes into power outage nightmares. Snow, ice, and gusty winds can wreak havoc on power lines, ultimately causing frustrating blackouts.
Consider investing in a generator to prepare for such situations. Generators come in various sizes and can power essential appliances or even your entire home. However, remember to operate generators safely, following guidelines to prevent hazards like carbon monoxide poisoning or electrical solutions.
As temperatures drop, your electric bill might soar. Consumption of energy increases in the winter because the days are shorter (i.e., more lighting usage), and some homes heat with electricity, either for their primary heating equipment, such as electric furnaces or heat pumps or for secondary heating equipment, such as space heaters or electric blankets.
Boost your home’s efficiency with the electrical solutions of sealing drafts around windows and doors. Investing in a programmable thermostat can help regulate temperatures more effectively, reducing energy usage. Additionally, don’t overlook the power that unplugging devices not in use holds—these devices still draw power even when idle.
Frozen pipes are a common wintertime woe. An exposed pipe may be free after just a few hours in temperatures of around 20 degrees. When a pipe freezes, it expands, potentially causing pipe bursts and associated electrical issues.
Preventative electrical solutions help to avoid frozen pipes. Insulate exposed pipes in colder areas, such as basements or attics. Additionally, allow faucets to drip slowly to prevent freezing. If faced with frozen pipes, avoid using electrical appliances to thaw them; instead, opt for gentle heat sources like towels soaked in warm water or a hairdryer.
Winter brings with it an influx of electrical devices—space heaters, electric blankets, and festive decorations—that can overload circuits and cause disruptions. Overloading a circuit happens when using excessive electricity, triggering overload protection. This action causes the circuit breaker to trip, cutting off the power supply and stopping electricity flow.
Distribute the electrical load across various outlets to prevent overloading. Power strips with surge protectors can also help manage the flow of electricity and prevent overloads. If circuit breakers frequently trip, it might indicate an overloaded circuit—consulting an electrician to assess and potentially upgrade your electrical system is advisable.
Enjoy the winter magic without worrying about electrical hiccups. You can keep your home warm and bright by following simple electrical solutions for your heaters, lights, and circuits. Stay cozy and worry-free this winter! It’s best to call in an electrician and not endanger yourself and your loved ones.
Want to make you completely winter-ready? Call us! Our team of expert electricians inspects all your electrical panels, wiring, switches, and outlets to ensure your home is safe and secure!
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