How to Avoid Common Electrical Problems This Winter

When temperatures drop, we tend to rely more heavily on our electrical system and appliances to keep us warm and entertain us through the long nights. Heating systems, electric blankets, space heaters, and Christmas lights all do their share of extra work during the winter. This increased demand on appliances causes an uptick in electrical problems across the country every winter. Read on for tips to avoid the most common electrical problems this winter.

Overloaded Electrical System

If your lights flicker when an appliance is turned on or if your circuit breaker keeps tripping, you are overworking your electrical system. The fact is that it simply can’t keep up with your household’s demand for energy. You have two options:

• Evaluate and reduce your power consumption: If you have multiple aging appliances, you might want to consider upgrading to more energy-efficient models. Older dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators, AC units, and furnaces can put a lot of strain on your electrical system and increase your energy bill.
• Upgrade your electrical system: If your home is more than 20 years old, it may not be wired adequately for modern usage. Outdated wiring is not ideal for modern appliances and consumption needs. Consider investing in an electrical panel upgrade, or “heavy up.” This means that an electrician will increase the amperage coming into your home through the service panel. A heavy up will not only make your life easier by providing adequate energy to your home, it’s also an important safety measure to keep overloaded wires from sparking and starting fires.

Increased Risk of Electrical Fires

Your trusty electric blankets, space heaters, and Christmas lights come out of storage every winter to keep you warm and happy, then get tucked away until next year. After many years, your winter electrical equipment might be outdated and worn. Worn and fraying cords are a risk for both shock and house fires. Outdated devices are also incompatible with modern homes and can put stress on your electrical system. Replace these devices every 5 years to keep your home safe and your electrical system happy.

Power Outages

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow… but be ready for the accompanying loss of power! Winter precipitation often causes power outages. If your home is unprotected or under protected, it’s more susceptible to power outages in the winter. Calling a trusted electrical company to inspect your home can help you prepare and avoid preventable losses of power. A backup generator is a sound investment to prepare for the instances when a power outage is unavoidable.

Static Electricity

While static electricity may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can be a real headache if you and your family are getting zapped constantly. Static electricity is more prevalent during the winter, when the air in your home is dry from running the heat. To combat this problem, invest in a humidifier to add moisture to your home’s air and reduce the occurrence of static shocks.

Work With a Qualified Electrical Company for Your Winter Electrical Needs

When you experience electrical issues in the cold of winter, choose professional electricians to ensure that your home is safe and your electrical system is meeting your needs. Jaffe Electric, Inc. is a full-service electrical contractor serving residential, commercial, contractors, and retail clients in Maryland, DC, and Virginia. Our highly trained electricians can assess the performance of your home’s electrical system and make any needed repairs or upgrades to get it ready for winter.

If your home needs electrical repair or maintenance in MD, DC, or VA, during the winter or any other time of year, contact us today at 301.253.3778 or fill out a contact form to get started.