Extreme weather conditions can hit any time of the year, leaving us vulnerable to power outages and electrical failures. High winds, heavy rainfall, or extreme heat can cause widespread damage to the electrical systems in and around our homes. Homeowners in areas that experience severe weather regularly should be prepared to handle these power failure situations.
1. Inspect Your Electrical System
Before the storms hit, assess your electrical systems to identify potential hazards. Check your electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures to ensure they are all in working order. Call an electrician immediately if you notice any issues, such as overloaded circuits, frayed wires, or loose outlets. Ensure the service entrance cables are secured and in good repair. Eliminating existing issues can prevent bigger problems in the future.
2. Choose Surge Protection
Power surges can occur during thunderstorms and can lead to damage to your appliances or electrical systems. Choose high-quality surge protectors for critical and expensive electronic devices. Consider installing a whole-house surge protector to protect the entire house from surges.
3. Protect Your Electrical Equipment
Protect electrical appliances by unplugging them before the storm arrives. This can protect your home appliances from power surges and high voltage spikes. If you cannot unplug your appliances, protect them from electrical surges by plugging them into a surge protector. It will prevent your devices from getting damaged when power surges occur.
4. Backup Power Supply
A generator can keep your refrigerator, HVAC system, and other essential appliances running during an extended power outage. A battery backup keeps the lights on long enough after the power goes out, giving you enough time to shut down electronics, secure valuables, and prepare for the long haul.
5. Prepare Your Home for Power Outages
Always have a standby power supply kit in case of an extended power outage. The kit may include flashlights, batteries, or portable power banks. If you rely on refrigeration or medical equipment, consider early preparation and purchase of extra ice and battery backups. Keep significant phone numbers in a safe and accessible location, as extended power outages can impact communication services.
Houston Electrician
At Colwell Electric, we understand the importance of complying with all legal requirements for home electrical systems. Contact us today at (713) 940-6120 to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare your home's electrical systems for extreme weather conditions.