Keeping your home safe against winter electrical hazards
January 22, 2024
Winter Electrical Safety Tips
Winter is when most of us stay indoors and out of the cold, chilly weather with blankets, space heaters, and a warm drink. While you are snuggled up , you should think about your electrical safety.
With the cold weather we have been experiencing, many people depend on electrical devices to keep their homes warm. We use more electricity in these months and can stress the electrical system. Here are a few tips to prevent an electrical emergency, and to keep your family safe.
Space heaters
Using space heaters is a great way to keep extra warm during the winter. They can also be the biggest hazards in our homes.
• We need to keep 3 feet of space around heaters in every direction.
• Don’t plug a space heater into an extension cord. It can cause the cables to overheat.
• Do not leave the heater unattended. Disconnect the heater when not in use.
• Keep it free from blankets, curtains, rugs, and any other debris that could cause things to overheat or catch fire.
• Replace Damaged Electrical Cords
• When you bring space heaters, heated blankets, or anything you store most of the year out for use, they should be inspected before using.
• If you find any frayed, worn, or broken electrical cables, it is recommended to have them replaced or fixed to prevent a fire or shock risk.
Click here
to read more about space heater safety.
Keep Cords Safe
Try to avoid running electrical cords or power strips under rugs or behind furniture. This can cause the wires to wear and can become frayed. Covering cords can block the heat from escaping. If a cord feels hot to the touch or is damaged in any way, do not use it. Hot cords can be a fire hazard.
What happens if there is an electrical fire? Click here to read how to put out an electrical fire.
Do not use extension cords as permanent wiring. If you find yourself using the extension cord for something permanent, call us to quote getting you set up with a new electrical outlet.
Follow Light Safety
While the holidays are over, it is now popular to have a holiday tree up all year long. Make sure you follow the safety tips for string lights:
• Aim for no more than three strings of light per circuit.• Always unplug or turn off string lights when you are not home or go to bed for the night.• Replace broken or missing bulbs to prevent electrocution or fires.
Call Us
Following these guidelines can help keep your home safe from electrical issues. If you find there are any issues with the electrical system in your home, make sure you call a licensed electrician. The team at KrisLee Electric is ready to meet all your home’s needs. Contact KrisLee Electric
to schedule an appointment today!
Discover how electricians enhance comfort, safety, and efficiency in your home through thoughtful planning, reliable systems, and everyday functionality.
S pring Renovations: When to Call an Electrician Spring is a popular time for home renovations. Warmer weather and longer days make it the perfect season to start those projects you've been planning all winter. While many upgrades focus on paint, flooring, or landscaping, electrical work is often an important part of a safe and successful renovation. Knowing when to call a licensed electrician can save time, money, and prevent potential safety issues. Adding or Moving Outlets Many renovations involve changing the layout of a room, adding built-ins, or upgrading appliances. These changes often require outlets to be moved or added to meet electrical codes and provide convenient access to power. A licensed electrician can ensure outlets are installed safely and in the correct locations. Lighting Upgrades Spring renovations are a great time to upgrade lighting. Whether you're installing recessed lighting, under-cabinet lighting, or updating outdated fixtures, proper wiring and installation are key. An electrician can help design a lighting plan that improves both functionality and appearance. Electrical Panel Upgrades Older homes may not have the electrical capacity needed for modern appliances, home offices, or new additions. If your renovation includes new equipment, HVAC upgrades, or additional rooms, your electrical panel may need to be evaluated or upgraded to handle the increased load. Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations Kitchens and bathrooms have specific electrical code requirements. GFCI outlets, dedicated circuits, and proper spacing are all essential for safety. A professional electrician will ensure your renovation meets current electrical codes and functions reliably. Outdoor Electrical Projects Spring is also a common time to install outdoor lighting, outlets, or power for patios, pools, and sheds. Outdoor electrical work must be properly protected from weather and moisture, making professional installation especially important. Plan Ahead for Electrical Work One of the best things you can do when planning a renovation is to involve an electrician early in the process. Proper planning can prevent delays and ensure your electrical system supports all of your new upgrades. Spring is the perfect season to improve your home, and making sure the electrical work is done safely and correctly is a critical part of the process. If your renovation involves wiring, lighting, outlets, or panel upgrades, it’s always best to work with a licensed professional .
Industrial facilities can run into plenty of electrical issues that'll need help from professional industrial electricians. Here are three common problems.
Share On: