Electrical Safety Tips for Seattle Homeowners Before the Winter Storms
As a homeowner in Seattle, WA, you know that winter storms bring more than wind, rain, and snow. These brutally cold storms also bring significant risks to your home’s electrical system. Taking a few steps for electrical safety in Seattle before the rough weather hits will prevent major headaches and keep your family safe. At As You Wish Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, we understand the unique challenges our region faces. We want to help you prepare.
When the rain turns heavy or the snow begins to fall, your electrical system faces threats. These threats include power surges, overloaded circuits, and the danger of downed lines. Our goal is to equip you with some winter storm electrical tips.
Simple Preventive Home Electrical Tips
Many of the most effective safety measures are also the simplest. By focusing on maintenance, you significantly reduce the risk of a major issue during the worst winter weather.
We recommend starting with your electrical panel. Ensure the area around it is clear and accessible. An annual home electrical inspection in Seattle will catch minor issues before they become storm-related emergencies. Additionally, take time to check outdoor lighting and wiring, securing loose cables that high winds might tear down.
Check Your Electrical Panel and Circuits
A home’s electrical panel, or breaker box, is its central nervous system. Winter appliances like heaters and dehumidifiers will push older panels to their limits. Overloaded circuits are a fire hazard that you must address before winter arrives.
If your breakers trip frequently, it signals an overload issue that needs professional attention. We will perform a panel inspection to assess its capacity and recommend upgrades. When it comes to your electrical system, you need to listen to a Seattle electrician for safety advice.
Prepare for Power Outages and Surges
Power outages are a common hazard when strong winter storms batter the Seattle, WA area. Heavy winds and falling debris damage utility lines, causing outages. The sudden return of power creates damaging surges. Preparing for these events is one of the most important things you will do this season.
For your power outage preparation in Seattle as a homeowner, install high-quality surge protectors. A single surge can damage expensive electronics and appliances. Until you install surge protectors, unplug nonessential electronics, and turn off lights to prevent a surge when the power returns.
To protect your home from power surges, use the right strips for surge protection. For more comprehensive defense, we recommend a whole-house surge protector installed directly at your electrical panel. We can help you select the right level of surge protection for your home.
Secure Backup Power Sources
For extended power outages in the Seattle area, a backup power source will keep essential systems running. Appliances like your furnace and refrigerator are always needed. Whether you choose a portable or whole-house generator, safety during operation is non-negotiable.
If you plan to use a portable generator, you must operate it outdoors and far away from windows, doors, and vents. Never connect a portable generator directly to your home’s electrical panel without a professionally installed transfer switch.
Watch for Downed Power Lines
While you cannot prevent a power line from falling during a big storm, you can prepare your home for the possibility. Getting the proper protection against power surges and having backup power is your defense. When a power line goes down, the real risk is when it surges back on. Electricians in the area work fast to get the power going again. They’re not giving thought to your delicate electronics. Their aim is to literally surge power back through the lines.
Contact As You Wish Electric for Safe Winter Preparation
When it comes to preparing your electrical system for Seattle’s harsh winter, there are many steps you will confidently take yourself. However, for bigger issues, you need help. Things like panel inspections, whole-house surge protection, or transfer switch installations for a generator require a professional. Attempting complex electrical work yourself creates a significant safety risk for your home and family.
At As You Wish Electric, we are the trusted choice for electrical services in the Seattle, WA, community. We offer comprehensive electrical inspections, panel upgrades, and generator services to ensure your home is resilient against any storm.
Contact As You Wish Electric today for a comprehensive electrical safety inspection in Seattle.
