Summer is almost here, which means you'll probably be spending some time preparing your home for warmer weather, backyard barbeques, and everything else the season brings. While your prep includes some obvious tasks like changing your air conditioner's filters or getting your sprinklers ready to water your lawn, it also includes maintaining your electrical system and making sure it's safe for this warmer season. It's always best to call an electrician for major electrical repairs, inspections, and renovations, but there are still some maintenance tasks that you can complete before the summer arrives. Here are some electrical maintenance tips to keep in mind.
1. Inspect All Outdoor Wiring
If you plan to host any gatherings or otherwise spend a lot of time in your backyard, check all of your outdoor wiring. This includes outdoor electrical outlets, light fixtures, and any extension cords that you might use. Replace any obviously damaged extension cords as soon as possible, and do not use any outlets that appear scorched or corroded. If you have any doubts about your outdoor wiring or lighting setup, call an electrician to schedule an inspection and make any necessary repairs.
2. Use Only Outdoor Extension Cords Outside
If you're going to do anything that requires electricity outside, make sure that any extension cords you use are safe for outdoor use. Some extension cords are only intended to be used indoors, and taking one of these outside can be dangerous.
3. Test Your GFCI Outlets
Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets protect you from electric shocks by shutting off electrical power when they detect ground faults. They are usually found in bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor spaces, and anywhere else where they are likely to come into contact with water. They have saved many lives, but they can also wear out or get damaged just like any electronic device. GFCI outlets should be tested at least once a month. Fortunately, it's very easy to do this. All you need to do is press the "TEST" button on the outlet. This should cut the power to the outlet and cause a "RESET" button to pop up. Pressing the "RESET" button will reset the outlet so that it can be used again. If the outlet fails to trip when you press the "TEST" button, don't use it. Call an electrician to replace it.
4. Check Your Ceiling Fans
Turning on a ceiling fan doesn't actually lower the temperature in a room, but it creates a breeze effect that can make it feel cooler and more comfortable. It needs to turn counterclockwise, though. A clockwise rotation creates an updraft that distributes warmer air throughout the space. That's great for the winter, but not for the summer. Your ceiling fans should get set to turn counterclockwise, which is as easy as flipping a switch. Dust off the fan blades to ensure top performance and to keep dust from raining down on everything.
5. Invest in Surge Protectors
Lightning storms are common during the summer in Texas, and they can cause power surges that can damage or destroy your electronic devices. Fortunately, you can prevent the worst of this damage with surge protectors. Most power strips already have surge protection, but you can also install surge protection into your electrical system that will protect your entire home. The team at Mister Sparky® of Amarillo can install a whole-home surge protector for your home, so give us a call if you're concerned about lightning strikes damaging your electronics this summer.
6. Test Your Smoke Detectors
House fires aren't strictly a summer problem, but you should still test all of your smoke detectors every month to make sure that they are working properly. If you find any that aren't working, replace their batteries as soon as possible even if they are wired directly into your home's electrical system. Wired smoke detectors may be convenient, but they won't do you any good if your home loses power. Replace any smoke detectors that are over 10 years old.
7. Schedule an Electrical Inspection
Most experts recommend scheduling an electrical inspection at least once every three to five years. If it's been at least that long since your last inspection or if you think your system has any issues, call an electrician to schedule an inspection before temperatures get too high. Electrical issues are always serious, but you especially don't want to deal with them when it's dangerously hot outside or if you're planning a summer get-together at your home. During an inspection, an electrician will look for overloaded circuits, outdated or damaged wiring, and anything else that could pose a hazard to your home.
Other Electrical Safety Tips
These tips will help ensure that your home's electrical system is ready for the summer, but there are other safety tips to keep in mind. First of all, don't rely too heavily on extension cords or power strips. They may come in handy if you don't have enough electrical outlets, but they're meant to be temporary solutions. Relying on them too much could overload your circuits. If it always seems like you don't have enough electrical outlets in your home, it might be time to upgrade your system. Next, be careful with your outdoor lighting. If any of it is damaged in any way, do not use it until you can have it repaired or replaced by a professional. You should also switch to LED lights if you haven't already to save energy. Finally, never attempt to make electrical repairs on your own. Your electrical system is more complicated and dangerous than you might think, and an ill-conceived DIY repair could result in serious injury or damage to your home.
Call Mister Sparky® for Assistance
Whether you need to schedule an electrical inspection, make emergency repairs, or rewire anything in your home, Mister Sparky® will gladly assist you. We provide electrical services of all kinds in Amarillo, TX, and the surrounding areas, and we are available 24/7 for emergency repairs. All of our technicians are trained, licensed, and insured in addition to being local, and our pricing is as straightforward and transparent as possible. Our UWIN Guarantee also provides an extra level of protection and peace of mind. No matter what your electrical needs may be, the team at Mister Sparky® will be happy to assist you. To learn more about the services we offer or to schedule service for your Amarillo home, call us at any time of the day or night.
