When the forecast in southeastern Massachusetts calls for snowy days, staying comfortable requires reliable electricity. Unfortunately, some of the things we do to keep warm and dry can actually cause problems that lead to power outages and more.
If you want to enjoy the winter without inconvenient (and possibly dangerous) issues, follow this advice from Crowe Electric, the top-ranking electricians in Hanson, MA, on how to avoid common winter electrical problems.
Enjoy the Winter in Hanson Without Electrical Problems
Most of the common winter electrical problems that Hanson homeowners encounter are avoidable if you follow basic safety principles, invest in smart upgrades, and keep the system well-maintained.
Use Extension Cords Safely
Extension cords are a leading cause of electrical fires because they don’t provide as much protection from overloads. The further the current has to travel, the harder it is for the circuit breaker to detect excess power and close the circuit. This can cause overheating, melting, an arc, and a fire.
It’s not just long cords you need to worry about. Connecting multiple cords or using them for appliances that draw a heavy current (like a space heater) can draw excess power and cause a circuit overload and possible fire.
To avoid these common winter electrical problems, never use extension cords with space heaters; plug the device directly into the outlet instead. Otherwise, only use the cords for short periods, and be sure they are rated for use with the device’s powering.
Prepare for Power Outages
Winter storms regularly knock out power to Hanson homes. Downed power lines and power restoration can both cause voltage spikes that damage electronics and appliances, so consider installing a whole-house surge protector before the snow flies to protect your belongings.
Investing in a generator can also help you stay warm and cozy when the electricity goes out. A portable generator can power some of your home appliances, but if you want a reliable backup power source, consider a whole-home generator. These units run on propane or natural gas and automatically switch on when the power goes out, allowing you to run the furnace, well pump, and other major systems.
Take Care With Holiday Decorations
Celebrating the holiday season with lights and a tree are beloved traditions, but before you hang strings of lights, make sure they are in good condition. Only use lights with outdoor wiring on your home’s exterior, and plug them into outdoor GFCI outlets to prevent electrical shorts due to exposure to the elements.
Increase Indoor Humidity
The colder temperatures of a New England winter make the air drier, a problem that’s only made worse when you run the furnace. This can significantly increase static electricity, which many people don’t realize can contribute to common winter electrical problems, like electrical shorts and fires. Just touching an electronic device if you have a build-up of static can cause a painful and damaging shock.
Using a humidifier to keep air at the ideal humidity level (between 30% and 50%) can keep this from happening.
Monitor the Roof
You may not think that your roof has much to do with the electrical system, but damage on top of your home can trickle down into other areas and cause major problems.
One of the most destructive issues is ice damming, or a buildup of ice at the edge of the roof that causes water to seep under the shingles. When water infiltrates your home, it can travel down the walls and into the wiring, creating a risk of fire. Keep an eye on your roof and clear the snow and ice to protect it from damage and avoid electrical problems.
Inspect Electric Blankets
Snuggling under a heated blanket on a blustery day can keep you warm, but before plugging it in, check the cord and blanket edges for fraying or other damage, which can cause electrical problems or injury. As a rule of thumb, replace electric blankets every few years for maximum safety and energy efficiency.
Get Your Hanson Home’s Electrical System Ready for Winter
If your home needs work to avoid common winter electrical problems, such as installing new outlets or an electrical panel upgrade, reach out to Crowe Electric or book service online. As the number one team of local electricians in Hanson, MA, we’ll ensure you have everything you need for reliable power all season. We also provide generator installation so you can have plenty of power during outages. Talk to us to learn more.