Fall Electrical Safety: Time to Get Your Home Ready for the Season

As the crisp air of fall rolls in, it’s easy to focus on cozying up the home—whether that’s pulling out the blankets, getting the fireplace ready, or setting up seasonal décor. However, this time of year also brings unique electrical challenges that are often overlooked. With increased use of heating devices, holiday lights, and longer hours of indoor activity, your electrical system can experience extra strain.

That’s why fall is the perfect time to schedule an electrical safety check for your home. Here’s why it matters and some key things to consider for a safe, energy-efficient season.

1. Prevent Fire Hazards

As temperatures drop, space heaters, electric blankets, and heated lamps start to come out of storage. While these devices are convenient, they can also pose fire risks if not used correctly or if your electrical system isn’t equipped to handle the extra load.

Safety Tips:

• Check for damaged cords on space heaters, electric blankets, and other heating devices. If you notice any fraying or wear, replace them immediately.
• Avoid overloading outlets. Plugging multiple heating devices into a single outlet or power strip can cause overheating, which increases fire risk.
• Test smoke detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly, as heating devices contribute to an uptick in home fires during the colder months.

2. Get Your Electrical Panel Inspected

With fall and winter comes increased indoor activity and reliance on appliances. This can put strain on your electrical panel, especially in older homes or if you’ve added new devices in the past year.

What to do:

• Have your electrical panel inspected by a professional to ensure it can handle the additional demand from heating appliances, holiday lights, and more.
• Consider upgrading your panel if you experience frequent tripped breakers, flickering lights, or notice any buzzing sounds. These are signs that your system may be overloaded.

3. Outdoor Electrical Safety

As fall approaches, many homeowners are preparing outdoor spaces for colder weather by using leaf blowers, electric chainsaws, or setting up outdoor holiday lighting. These activities come with their own set of safety precautions.

Outdoor Safety Tips:

• Inspect all outdoor outlets for signs of wear and tear. GFCI outlets, which protect against electrical shocks, should be installed in areas exposed to moisture.
• Check holiday lighting for frayed wires or damaged plugs. Use lights that are UL-rated for outdoor use and avoid stringing too many together.
• Keep extension cords dry and off the ground to avoid any moisture exposure that could lead to electrical shorts.

4. Upgrade Your Lighting for Longer Nights

As the days get shorter, you’ll likely rely more on lighting both inside and outside your home. This is a great time to think about upgrading to more energy-efficient options, like LED bulbs.

What to consider:

• Switch to LEDs to save energy and reduce the risk of overheating. LED bulbs last longer and use less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Add motion-sensor lighting outdoors to improve safety without increasing energy costs. This is especially helpful for walkways, driveways, or around outbuildings.

5. Prepare for Storms and Power Outages

Fall can bring unpredictable weather, from windstorms to early snow. Power outages are common during these times, so it’s important to make sure you’re ready.

What to do:

• Consider investing in a whole-home surge protector to protect your appliances and devices from damage during power surges caused by storms or outages.
• Test your standby generator (if you have one) or consider having one installed. Make sure it’s properly maintained and ready to go before severe weather hits.
• Prepare emergency lighting, like battery-powered lanterns or flashlights, to ensure you’re never left in the dark if the power goes out.

Schedule a Fall Electrical Inspection

The change of seasons is a perfect reminder to make sure your home’s electrical system is in top shape. A professional inspection can catch potential issues before they become major hazards and ensure your home is safe, energy-efficient, and ready for whatever the season brings.

Contact us today to schedule your fall electrical safety check!

By taking these steps now, you’ll be able to enjoy a warm, comfortable, and safe fall season without worrying about unexpected electrical issues. Stay safe, stay prepared, and get ahead of the colder weather with a professional inspection.