You can probably think of a ton of things you would like to do this winter, like ski, play in the snow or drink hot chocolate. There are also things you have to do, like shovel snow, stock up on salt and get winter tires. One thing many people forget to take care of before winter starts is their home’s electrical system. And one thing no wants to to do is search for an electrician near me when something happens unexpectedly.
It is actually one of the more important things to think about before the cold weather months. After all, systems like heating, lighting and hot water may all depend at least in part on your electrical system. If it were to fail you could be left in the cold and the dark. No one wants to be searching for “an electrician near me” in an emergency. There are things that you can do to protect yourself and your home from encountering these types of situations this winter.
3 Ways to Prepare Your Home’s Electrical System for Winter
If you want to make sure that your home stays safe and cozy this winter, especially in regards to the electrical system and appliances and systems powered by electricity, here are three things you should address before temperatures start dropping.
Inspect Everything
This is a good time of year to really take inventory of your appliances and systems as well as their conditions.
Do a thorough once over of your water heater. Make sure that there aren’t any leaks and that you aren’t hearing any strange noises. If your water heater is electrical, you will want to have a professional inspection done.
Before it gets too cold outside and you need your furnace, it is good to switch it on. Make sure that it is operating properly and that the thermostat works correctly. If you have any stand alone heaters, you will need to make sure they are in good working order as well.
It is very important to be cautious about safety. Make sure that you check your batteries and test your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector before you turn on your furnace for the winter months.
Optimize Your Energy Usage
If you want to cut back on your utility bills in the winter months, when for most people, the most energy is used, you will want to make sure that you optimize your electrical system. You will also want to make sure that you are using energy efficient appliances and light bulbs. Try to limit your consumption of energy as much as possible, by doing things like:
- Turning off lights when not in use.
- Unplugging chargers that aren’t in use.
- Closing doors to interior rooms as well as the exterior of the home.
- Implementing home weatherization.
Effective Lighting
As much as we consider the colder weather of the winter months, we also need to consider the shorter days. This of course leads to less sunlight and less natural lighting in our homes and for our activities. Before the days get shorter and evenings come faster, make sure that all of your light fixtures have fresh bulbs and work properly. It is not only important to have effective lighting indoors, but also outdoors, to prevent accidents that can happen in the rain or snow, especially after dark.
Do I Need a Generator?
Depending on where you live, you may want to look into purchasing a generator for your home. They can provide electricity during a power outage which can provide your household with warmth and security. If you think a generator might be the answer for your home, discuss your options with a licensed electrician who can help explain all of the pros and cons of a generator as well as what size would be appropriate for your home.
Searching for an Electrician Near Me in Broken Arrow, OK?
If you have questions about winterizing your electrical system, a home generator or need electrical advice or repairs and are searching for an “electrician near me” in Broken Arrow, OK., Mullin Electric is here to help. Call (918) 209-3316 and make an appointment with a licensed electrician now.