Now that we have entered fall, it’s time to ensure that your home is prepared to handle the new season and begin getting it ready for winter as well. Electrical problems are one thing that you need to check off your list right away. Making sure that any of your home’s electrical problems are in your rearview mirror in the fall can often save you from experiencing home electrical issues throughout winter and into the spring.
4 Tips for Avoiding Electrical Problems This Fall
There are a few steps that homeowners can take to avoid experiencing electrical issues this fall. The following are four tips to help homeowners avoid electrical problems this fall:
- GFCI Outlets – Most homes, especially newer homes, have GFCI outlets installed. However, older homes, especially if they have older electrical systems, sometimes do not GFCI outlets in place. GFCI outlets are essential in certain areas in and around your home, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoors, because they are less likely to experience electrical issues if they’re exposed to water. GFCI outlets are designed to shut down if the electrical flow is disrupted, like when water enters the outlet.
- Leaves & Outdoor Debris – Leaves, especially dry leaves, and other outdoor debris should be kept clear from your home’s exterior. This is because leaves and other debris can be a fire risk if they get near your home’s outdoor lighting, electrical outlets, and power cords. All it takes is one spark landing on a leaf or other piece of debris and an electrical fire could begin raging in or around your house.
- Extension Cords – Many holidays in fall and winter (Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) are celebrated with outdoor decorations, including electric lights. Many of these types of decorations require homeowners to use extension cords to reach from the decorations to the home’s outdoor outlets. If an extension cord is damaged or not weatherproof, it can be a fire risk if water or outdoor debris gets into it or too close to it. Make sure to only use weatherproof extension cords outdoors and inspect your extension cords for damage before using them. This can help ensure your extension cords won’t cause you electrical problems this fall.
- Electrical Inspection – One of the best ways to make sure you avoid home electrical problems this fall is to have an experienced electrician inspect your house for signs of current or developing electrical issues. An electrician will know what to look for and can help you do what’s necessary to solve any electrical problems your home is experiencing.
Need Help with Electrical Problems? Schedule an Appointment with Our Experienced Electricians in Albany Today
For over 45 years, our licensed and experienced electricians have been serving customers in Albany and throughout its surrounding communities. Our top priorities are always customer safety & satisfaction and providing our customers with the highest quality electrical services. For more information about Mel Carr Electric, check out our customers’ reviews and read our Code of Ethics.
To learn more about what to do if you notice signs of a home electrical problem, or to set up an appointment with our electrical experts in Albany, give us a call at 518.500.3042 or contact us online today.