Before The Snow, Do This!

As the temperatures plummet and the snow is on the horizon, preparing your home for winter is crucial, and that includes your electrical system! Severe winter weather brings unique risks, from power outages to potential electrical damage caused by freezing temperatures and heavy snow or ice.

Before the Cold Hits

Taking steps now can save you major headaches later.

• Inspect Your Outdoor Connections:

  • Walk around the exterior of your home. Are all cords, extension leads, or seasonal lighting connections rated for outdoor use?

  • Look for any frayed wiring or damaged insulation that could be exposed to moisture from snow or ice, creating a shock hazard or short circuit. Replace immediately!

• Test and Maintain Your GFCI Outlets:

  • Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential in areas exposed to moisture, like garages, basements, and the exterior of your home. They trip the circuit instantly if they detect a ground fault, which is common when moisture is involved.

  • Test them monthly: Press the "TEST" button the "RESET" button should pop out. Press "RESET" to restore power. If it doesn't work, have it replaced.

• Prepare Your Heating System and Space Heaters:

  • When using portable space heaters, Never plug them into an extension cord or power strips. They draw too much current and can overheat the cord, melting the insulation leading to a fire. Always plug them into a wall outlet directly.

Power Outage Preparation

Snow and ice storms are the leading cause of power outages in winter.

• Inspect Your Emergency Lighting/Flashlights:

  • Ensure all flashlights and lanterns are functioning and stock up on fresh batteries.

  • Consider installing battery-operated emergency lighting that automatically turns on when the power goes out.

• Generator Safety (If Applicable):

  • If you own a portable generator, review the safety rules.

  • Crucial Rule: Generators must ALWAYS be used outdoors, away from windows, doors, and vents, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never run a generator inside a garage or home.

  • If you have a permanently installed, whole-house generator, ensure a professional has performed its pre-season maintenance check.

• Surge Protection:

  • Power fluctuations, including surges after an outage restores power, can damage sensitive electronics.

  • Use good quality surge protectors for your TVs, computers, and other valuable devices.

    
    

Even though we haven’t had any major snowfall yet, we still need to be prepared for when it does. You want to make sure your home is safe and warm during this time of year, especially with Christmas right around the corner!

Need help inspecting your electrical system before the heavy snow arrives? We would be happy to come and make sure your home electrical system is properly winterized. Contact us at 801-472-5735

Joke Time!

What do snowmen eat for breakfast?………. Ice Crispies.

Happy Holidays!

—Horizon Electric