Things to Inspect Before It Gets Cold Here in Utah – A Checklist
Things to Inspect Before It Gets Cold Here in Utah – A Checklist. As winter approaches, preparing your home’s electrical system is crucial to avoid potential hazards and ensure efficiency during the colder months. Here are a list of electrical items in your house to inspect before the weather turns cold here in Utah.
A thorough inspection of electrical components is important to prevent issues such as power outages and electrical hazards. This comprehensive guide outlines the essential steps to winterize your electrical system, ensuring your home remains safe and functional throughout the Utah winter season.
Did you know that January has the highest cause of electrical fires? It is, with the increased use of appliances and lights during the cold months, January has the highest rate of home electrical fires.
To Read More About Causes of Electrical Fires, Please click the hyperlink below this line:
Inspect Your Electrical Panel
Most people don’t know that their electrical panel can wear out. The last you want is for your electrical panel to fail in the middle of a cold night in Utah. Because of this, it is important to have your electrical panel inspected before winter hits.
- Check for Rust or Corrosion: Winter moisture can cause rust and corrosion in electrical panels. We recommend ensuring the panel is dry and free from any signs of rust.
- Test Circuit Breakers: Verify that all circuit breakers are operating correctly and trip as expected. Replace any faulty breakers to avoid potential issues.
- Look for Overloaded Circuits: Ensure circuits are not overloaded by balancing the load appropriately, which can prevent tripping and possible damage.
Examine Wiring and Outlets
Faulty wiring and damaged outlets are some of the primary causes of home fires. It is important to inspect wiring and outlets to ensure they are operating properly.
- Check for Frayed Wires: Inspect visible wires and cables for any damage. Replace or repair any frayed or damaged wiring.
- Inspect Outlets: Confirm that all electrical outlets are functioning properly and free from signs of overheating or damage.
- Test Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): Test GFCIs monthly to ensure proper operation and replace any that are not functioning correctly. These are the outlets commonly found in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room that have the on/off buttons in the middle of the outlet.
Assess Outdoor Electrical Components
Utah weather is hard on everything, especially items that are exposed to the outdoors year round. It is important to check them thoroughly before the snow flies.
- Inspect Outdoor Outlets: Ensure outdoor outlets are weatherproof and adequately protected from moisture.
- Check Exterior Wiring: Examine exterior wiring for signs of wear or damage. Ensure all connections are secure and insulated properly.
- Clear Snow and Ice: Keep outdoor outlets and electrical components clear of snow and ice to prevent moisture-related issues.
Test Your Heating System
Remember, for most Utahn’s it has been awhile since their heater has been running. Heater coils are probably covered in dust (which is why it can smell like something is burning the first time you turn them on). Also, your heater might not be working at all and you won’t know it until you need it. Fall is the best time to have your heating system inspected, before you need it and it doesn’t work properly.
- Inspect Heating Cables: If heating cables are used for pipes or driveways, verify they are functioning correctly and free from damage.
- Test Thermostat: Ensure the thermostat operates correctly and accurately reflects the temperature to maintain proper heating.
- Service Your Furnace: Have the furnace inspected and serviced to ensure efficient and safe operation.
PRO-TIP: Get Your Heater Inspected Before The Weather Turns Cold and The Snow Flies to Avoid Emergency Electrician Calls
- Something a lot of people don’t consider is that on that first cold night of the year, lots of people are going to discover that their heating system isn’t working. All of them are going to call and electrician at the same time. This can leave you waiting hours for an emergency electrician call for service to get to you. Get ahead of everyone else and test it today. One, because emergency electrician calls are more expensive, and two, you don’t know how many people will be in line in front of you.
Check for Energy Efficiency
- Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting: Consider switching to LED bulbs to reduce energy consumption and heat output.
- Inspect Insulation Around Electrical Components: Ensure electrical components are properly insulated to prevent heat loss and enhance efficiency.
- Use Smart Plugs and Thermostats: Implement smart technology to monitor and manage energy use more effectively.
Summary: Things to Inspect Before It Gets Cold Here in Utah – A Checklist.
Preparing your home’s electrical system for winter here in Utah is a vital step in maintaining safety and efficiency throughout the colder months. Key Lime Electric advises following this checklist to prevent common winter electrical problems and ensure a smooth winter season. For any issues or uncertainties, consulting a professional electrician is recommended. Ensure your home remains warm, safe, and well-prepared by adhering to these essential guidelines. Share your own tips or experiences in the comments to contribute to a well-prepared community.
Remember, it is important to get ahead of these things. You don’t wan’t to be waiting in line for emergency electrician services with everyone else that first cold night of winter here in the Wasatch.
About Key Lime Electric – Electrician Salt Lake City, Utah
Key Lime Electric provides electrical services for Salt Lake City and the surrounding area. If you have a new electrical project you’re working on and need some assistance, please contact us right away at (801) 200-3202
To learn more about our Electrician Salt Lake City Services – Please Visit our Electrician Web Page
