Rainy Season Home Electric System Preparedness

While your house may seem perfect to you now, when the rain and winter weather arrive, your homeowner’s role is to look at it through the eyes of a safety advocate! When you imagine wet conditions and colder temperatures, you may see things you never realized were concerns before, such as electrical problems that could become unsafe and unreliable if not fixed. Be on the lookout for these potential problems before your real issues become inconvenient.

Here are some possible issues to be aware of and address before the rainy season.

1. Missing GFCI Outlets

If you have an outlet near water, you are in danger of an electric shock. A GFCI outlet protects you from that because the current is instantly shut off when it comes in contact with water. This ends the risk. Any outlet you have near water sources inside the house, as well as any outlets on the outside of your house, should be a GFCI outlet.

2. Two-Prong Outlets

Got space heaters? Two-pronged outlets are not grounded. As a result, these outlets put you at risk of shock. These types of outlets also have a difficult time with current technology, as most modern appliances and even extension cords have been upgraded to have a three-pronged end. There are many solutions. All of these outlets should be upgraded.

3. Problems With Circuit Breaker Panels

Breaker panels are the “heart of your system.” All the wiring in your house goes through the circuit breaker panel. If there is a problem with it, like old and outdated wiring and fuses, duct- taped repairs, or overcrowding of the panel itself, additional wintertime use may become the “tripping” point (get it?)!

4. Shortage of Outlets

If you have to use extension cords for a heater or just to vacuum one bedroom, there may not be enough outlets in the house.  Why not reduce or eliminate the small details that equal convenience, by having enough outlets to accommodate daily electric use. Aside from being annoying, too few outlets can mean extension cords and power strips, which can overload the system and be a potential fire hazard.

If you find any of these electrical problems in your home, contact Divine Electric and Plumbing. We are certified electricians who can assess your home and properly repair or update your electrical panels and outlets.  As a loyal customer, Divine Electric & Plumbing will perform a FREE Electrical Inspection and recommend the best way to repair any problems so you’ll be confident you are prepared for the rainy season.