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As winter begins, your electrical needs increase. Shorter days mean more electricity usage. You might be spending more time indoors because of the cold. And you’re using your heating system more as temperatures drop. Winters in Littleton, CO, are comparatively milder than those in some other places in the state. However, you still depend on your electrical system throughout the season for comfort and safety. This is why it’s important to make sure that your electrical system is up to the task.
Common Problem Areas
There are a few particular problem areas that you should be aware of when it comes to prepping for the winter.
Check Electric Panels
Your electrical panel is a kind of nerve center for your home’s entire electrical system, but chances are that you don’t give it much thought. However, electrical panels that are damaged, overloaded or old can struggle to meet your demands throughout the winter. In addition, they can pose a fire risk as they age. While breaker panels can last for 25-40 years, older panels might not be up to meeting contemporary electrical needs. If it’s been a few years since yours was inspected or it’s never been inspected, this is a good time to schedule service.
Check Space Heaters
Clean and check your space heaters, and make sure there haven’t been any recalls. Keep them on hard surfaces, and turn them off if you’re sleeping or out of the area. Be aware as well that space heaters use a significant amount of electricity. This is not just an issue for your heating bill but also for your electrical system. If you’ve plugged your space heater into an outlet that is on the same circuit as other devices in your home, you might trip the circuit.
Reduce Extension Cord Usage
While occasional use of an extension cord may be necessary, if you’re relying on them regularly, it might be time to put more outlets in your home and upgrade your electrical panel. In addition, depending on what you are plugging into them, they could also draw a substantial amount of power, leading to tripped circuits.
Prep Outdoor Outlets
If your outdoor outlets have GFCI test buttons, check them to make sure that they trip and reset correctly. Unplug any cords and put weatherproof covers on them.
Test Smoke Alarms
If you don’t have any smoke alarms or yours don’t work when you test them, we can do smoke alarm installation for you.
Energy-Saving Upgrades
Your power bills can skyrocket in the winter. The right upgrades can save energy and money on your next bill.
Switch to LED Lighting
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED bulbs last at least 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs and use at least 75% less energy. You may not think of your lights as a particularly big energy drain, but these savings add up over time.
Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat offers all the benefits of a programmable thermostat and more. For example, if you leave for vacation and forget to adjust your thermostat before you go, you can do it remotely. Some models can also track your routine and make their own energy-efficient adjustments accordingly. In addition, most can provide valuable reports about your energy consumption.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Your ceiling fan probably has a switch that allows you to run it clockwise in winter. Running it at a low speed improves heat distribution in your home. We provide ceiling fan installation if you’d like to add one or more to your home.
Warning Signs of Electrical Issues
Flickering lights and frequently tripping circuits are both common signs of electrical issues. All electrical issues can be serious, but if there is a buzzing sound coming from your electrical panel or your outlets spark when you use them, you should contact an electrician promptly. Treat a burning smell from your electrical panel or wiring as an emergency. Even without these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule an electrical safety inspection if it’s been a few years since your last one or if your house or wiring is old.
We’re locally owned, and we have more than 15 years of experience in the Littleton area. We’re proud of our integrity, creativity and experience.
We offer electrical services that can help you prepare for the winter, including electrical inspections, electrical repair and electrical panel upgrades. For all your electrical needs in the Littleton area, call MZ Electric today.
