As winter approaches, there’s a lot homeowners can do to help get their homes ready for the cold season. As you make your list, it’s important to put your home’s electrical system on it. Making sure your home’s electrical system is prepared for the colder months is critical.
With over 95 years of experience, the team at Kolb Electric is here to give you expert advice on how to keep your electrical systems running smoothly through the winter. Following this checklist from our experts will ensure you have an electrical system you can count on.
Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter often means increased use of heating appliances, which can elevate the risk of fire or carbon monoxide issues. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working correctly. Replace the batteries and consider installing additional detectors in areas where you don’t have adequate coverage.
Check Your Insulation
Proper insulation in your home can reduce the strain on your heating system. Check the insulation in your attic, walls, and around electrical outlets and switches. Good insulation helps maintain temperature, reducing the need for constant heating, which will help lessen the load on your electrical system.
Inspect and Upgrade Lighting
With shorter days and longer nights, winter demands more from your home’s lighting. Inspect all bulbs, fixtures, and switches. Consider upgrading to LED bulbs since they are more energy-efficient and last longer, which is ideal for those long winter nights.
Examine Outdoor Electrical Systems
Check outdoor lighting, outlets, and power supplies. Ensure they are in good condition and properly insulated against winter weather. This is also a good time to evaluate if you have enough outdoor lighting for the darker months.
Surge Protection
Winter storms can bring power surges. Protect your home by making sure you have adequate surge protection. This can include whole-home surge protectors or surge protectors for individual appliances.
Emergency Preparedness
Double-check you have an emergency kit ready in case of power outages. This should include flashlights, batteries, and a backup power source like a generator. If you have a generator, test it before the winter weather sets in.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Finally, don’t forget to schedule a professional electrical inspection. Kolb Electric’s skilled electricians can identify and fix any potential issues before they become major problems, which will save you time, stress, and money in the long run. Remember, regular maintenance can prevent winter electrical emergencies.
Choose Kolb Electric for Electrical Services
When it comes to reliable electrical services, Kolb Electric is the premier choice for homeowners and businesses in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Our family-owned and -operated business has served this community since 1925, providing exceptional expertise and dedication to every service. Whether you need routine maintenance, complex installations, or emergency services, our skilled team is equipped to handle all your electrical needs with the utmost professionalism.
Schedule an electrical service with Kolb Electric by calling 877-287-1179 today.
