Now that it’s October, fall is officially upon us. Though we have mild falls and winters here, there are still some maintenance tasks you should make sure are covered for your home’s electrical system now that the hottest days of summer are behind us. Electrical maintenance does not have to be complicated. In reality, the fall to-do list consists mainly of staying prepared and making sure your system receives simple, regular maintenance.
Keep in mind that electricity can be very dangerous- it can cause injury and even death. Therefore if you are not sure about an electrical project at your home, call in a professional.
- Check all major appliances, and upgrade them if necessary. Heading into fall and winter, it is likely that you will keep your lights on for longer, and you may turn your heat on overnight. Rather than experience a disappointing breakdown with any of your appliances, have a certified professional check them and ensure that they run smoothly throughout the coming cool seasons. Upgrade them if any are showing signs of being old or broken.This goes for your HVAC too. Our Florida HVAC systems are used to constant cooling; depending on how low you have your heat setting, it’s likely it may begin kicking on over the next couple of months. A professional should check your system to clean it and get the furnace component ready.
- Check your electrical tools. Now is an excellent time to upgrade or make repairs to your mower since you have time now that you only need to mow approximately 2 times per month. It would be best if you did the same for your other electrical yard tools. Check all cords for damage, and replace them if they have cracks or exposed wires. Get your hedge trimmers and other electrical pruning devices ready for the winter pruning by checking their engines and your extension cords as well. This will prevent malfunctions and potential electrical shocks.
- Inspect all your outdoor electric-powered decorations. We are entering the holiday season–Halloween is just around the corner, then Thanksgiving and the winter holidays follow soon behind. Many people enjoy putting up decorations that rely on electricity–from lights to inflatable figures. To ensure the safety of your family and visitors, have an electrician inspect your outdoor electrical outlets. Only purchase lights and cords that are certified for exterior use.
- Now is also a great time to install GFCI units if you do not already have them. They should be on all outlets that will potentially be exposed to water, not only the exterior ones but also any near your kitchen counters or in the bathroom. With all of the cooking that the holidays entail, it’s critical to have the utmost safety to prevent home fires. Because most fires begin in the kitchen, you should have a professional closely inspect all your kitchen appliances before you put them to more-than-usual use during the holiday season.
With the summer season calming down, there will be more time to repair, replenish, and prepare for the electrical needs of your home’s system and your tools over the winter and for the coming season. Now is not the time to waste – call your electrician to ensure your electrical maintenance checklist is completed and ready for the season.
Promise Electric‘s team of master electricians has been serving the Sarasota area for decades. From residential projects to commercial construction, we are the trusted electrical professionals you should call. Have any questions? We are here to help.
