The birds are singing, the flowers are blooming and spring is finally here! Before you break out the Blackstone, crack a cold one and fully embrace the season, let’s not forget the less glamourous but equally important task of home maintenance – especially when it comes to your electrical systems. Taking a little time now for a spring electrical checklist can be a powerful way to protect your home and family. By addressing potential issues proactively, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage from those awful Arkansas spring storms and catch any lurking electrical malfunctions before they have the chance to spark a dangerous fire.
Indoor Checklist
- Make sure all major appliances are (refrigerators, stove, dishwasher, stove etc.) are plugged directly into an outlet. (Never an extension cord)
- Check to make sure that your home’s outlets are not overloaded. Multiple heat producing appliances ( microwave, coffee maker, ice maker, etc.) should not be plugged into the same outlet.
- Test your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and replace the batteries if need be.
- Pull out your fridge and vacuum any dust build up to reduce the risk of hazards around electrical components.
- Install surge protectors to keep appliances and electronics safe during storms and power outages
- Change burnt out bulbs. (To LED preferably)
- Have your circuit panel and meter box inspected by a licensed electrical professional after a bad spring storm.
Outdoor Checklist
- Inspect power tools for frayed power cords, broken plugs or and damaged housing.
- Consider installing a backup home generator to protect your family during spring storms. (Having no power if for the birds)
- Prune and trim trees near power lines to prevent electrical outages during storms.
- Check all outdoor GFCI outlets to make sure they are working correctly
With these simple spring checks in hand, you can truly relax and enjoy all spring has to offer. Taking a little time for your electrical system now means you are less likely to to be caught off guard later. Cheers to a safe, fun and electrically sound spring!
For even more peace of mind this spring call your favorite electrical professionals at Hilltop Electric Inc. and we will come and inspect your home for you.