Keep Your Home Safe and Warm: Electrical Winter Prep Checklist
As temperatures drop, your home’s electrical systems work harder than ever. Taking a few preventive steps before winter sets in can help you stay safe, avoid costly repairs, and keep the lights (and heat!) on all season long.
1. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Heating systems, fireplaces, and space heaters increase carbon monoxide risks during cold months. Check that all detectors have fresh batteries and test them monthly. Replace any units more than 10 years old.
2. Inspect Outdoor Outlets and Extension Cords
Moisture and freezing temperatures can damage outdoor outlets or cords. Make sure covers are weather-resistant (“in-use” covers) and cords are rated for outdoor use. Never run extension cords through windows or doorways.
3. Check GFCI and AFCI Protection
Ground-fault (GFCI) and arc-fault (AFCI) breakers help prevent shocks and fires. Test outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas using the “TEST” button. If they don’t trip and reset properly, call a licensed electrician.
4. Protect Against Power Outages
Winter storms can knock out power when you need it most. Consider installing a whole-home surge protector or generator transfer switch. These protect your appliances and make backup power safer to use.
5. Inspect Outdoor Lighting and Holiday Displays
Before hanging lights or plugging in décor, check cords for cracks or exposed wires. Use LED bulbs to reduce load and energy use, and connect displays to GFCI-protected outlets.
6. Plan for Space Heater Safety
If you rely on space heaters, plug them directly into wall outlets—never power strips—and keep them three feet away from anything flammable. Turn them off when unattended.
Need help from a licensed electrician? Give us a call at Boone Electric!