Summer storms are as inevitable as scorching afternoon heat. Here in the Piedmont Triad, NC, these storms are not just a nuisance; they’re a real threat to your home’s electrical safety. Sudden power surges, downed powerlines, and moisture intrusion can leave you and your family vulnerable.
Taking proactive steps for summer storm electrical safety ensures peace of mind and keeps your home protected before a storm even rolls in. Schedule a professional electrical safety inspection with Ogburn Electric today, and we’ll help you safeguard your home and loved ones. Contact us at 336-924-5166 today!
Understand the Risks
Before we jump into how to prepare, it’s important to understand the electrical hazards summer storms bring.
Power Surges
Lightning strikes and grid fluctuations are major culprits behind electrical surges. These surges can cause irreparable damage to your valuable devices, ranging from appliances to home theater systems. Without proper surge protection, even a single strike can fry your electronics in an instant.
Damaged Outdoor Wiring
Winds, rain, and flying debris during storms can wreak havoc on your outdoor electrical setup. Exposed wiring and damaged outlets can pose risks, especially when combined with moisture.
Water Intrusion and Circuit Issues
Summer storms often bring heavy rainfall and flash flooding. Water intrusion in outdoor outlets, garages, basements, and even circuit panels increases the risk of electrical shocks and fires. This is why having fully functional circuit breakers and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) is not just smart but essential.
Essential Electrical Safety Tips to Prepare Your Home
While some risks are unavoidable, you can prepare your home to mitigate potential dangers. Here are some practical tips you can start with today.
Install Surge Protectors
The simplest and most effective way to avoid damage during a storm is to prevent power surges. Install plug-in surge protectors for individual devices and consider whole-house surge protection to secure your entire system.
Test and Upgrade Your GFCIs
GFCI outlets are your first line of defense in areas prone to water exposure, like bathrooms, garages, and outdoor spaces. Regularly test these outlets to ensure they’re functioning properly, and upgrade older outlets for optimal performance and safety.
Inspect and Maintain Outdoor Electrical Fixtures
Take a walk around your home and examine all outdoor wiring, light fixtures, and outlets. Look for frayed wires or worn-down fixtures, and replace or repair them immediately. A little inspection now can prevent major issues later.
Invest in a Backup Generator
When the power goes out, a backup generator is a lifesaver. Whether you opt for a portable model or a fully installed standby generator, having a power source ensures your family stays comfortable and your essential appliances work during outages.
Unplug Your Devices
One of the simplest ways to protect your home during a storm is by unplugging non-essential devices. This provides an extra layer of protection for appliances and electronics that aren’t connected to surge protectors.
What to Do During and After a Storm
The storm itself is only part of the equation. Knowing what to do during and after can make all the difference.
During the Storm
- Avoid using or touching electrical equipment if it feels wet or damaged.
- Steer clear of exposed outdoor outlets and fixtures.
- Use flashlights instead of candles to minimize fire risks.
After the Storm
- Safely reset your circuit breakers if you experience power loss, making sure to inspect your system first for visible damage.
- If you suspect wiring issues or moisture in outlets, call an electrician immediately.
- Follow all safety guidelines for your generator, including proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
Why Choose Ogburn Electric Company for Your Electrical Safety Needs
At Ogburn Electric, we take summer storm electrical safety seriously. For decades, we’ve proudly served homeowners in the Piedmont Triad with dependable and proactive electrical solutions. Here’s why customers trust us:
- Experience You Can Count On
Our team of licensed and insured electricians has years of expertise, ensuring your home is in safe hands.
- 24/7 Emergency Support
From storm damage repairs to urgent inspections, we offer emergency services whenever you need us.
- Tailored Storm Preparation
We customize our inspections and upgrades based on your home’s unique needs, offering advice that’s both practical and comprehensive.
- Commitment to Customer Satisfaction
Our top priority is your peace of mind. We deliver quality services that align with your safety goals.
Get Storm-Ready Now
Summer storms aren’t just inconvenient; they can seriously compromise your home and family’s safety. With proactive measures like surge protection, GFCI upgrades, and generator preparation, you’ll be ready for whatever Mother Nature brings.
Don’t leave your home’s electrical safety to chance. Call Ogburn Electric at 336-924-5166 for a professional electrical inspection today. Together, we’ll make sure your home is not just storm-ready but storm-safe.