Commercial Services, Electrical Safety, Industry Knowledge, Residential Services
In today’s blog, we’ll go over the top 5 common winter electrical issues and what you can do about them to ensure a safe and cozy season!
Winter brings cold noses, frozen roads, and some unique electrical challenges. As the chill starts to set in, don’t forget about the strain you are about to put on your electrical system. Serving our community as emergency electricians, there are a few issues that seem to consistently crop up around the holidays. In today’s blog, we’ll go over the top 5 common winter electrical issues and what you can do about them to ensure a safe and cozy season!
Issue 1 - Power Outages
In our northern climate, we rely heavily on electricity during the winter months. We experience below freezing temperatures and very little sunlight. This means that we are using more light and heat than any other time of the year.
Couple that with the festive decor of the holiday season, and your electrical system will be feeling the strain.
Some homes were not designed to handle the electrical power we demand and need to be adjusted. Before the season goes into full swing, have an electrician take a look at your home. They will be able to determine whether your system can handle the load and what to do to get it where you need it.
At 4-Star Electric we’re also proud to offer enhancement services including electrical panel upgrades and whole-home surge protection options to ensure you have the power you need, when you need it.
Issue 2 - Additional Heat Sources
Additional heat sources are another common winter electrical issues.
Electric fireplaces and space heaters are a popular way to keep warm when you don’t want to heat up the entire house. However, improper use of these gadgets can reduce efficiency and increase the risk of fire.
Always ensure that heaters are supervised when in use and unplugged when turned off. Furthermore, they shouldn’t be sharing an outlet as they create quite a bit of heat and could damage other devices.
Issue 3 - Overloaded Circuits
Similar to issue 2, too many appliances, gadgets and supplemental heating equipment can easily overload your circuits.
Overloaded circuits can trip your breaker leading to inconsistent power, and in extreme cases, can also become a fire hazard.
Issue 4 - Static Electricity
Dry winter air means chapped skin and fly-away hair, but it also means an insurgence of static electricity.
Static electricity is an imbalance of electrons on a surface. They will sit there until they are neutralized by discharging, which is the static shock we all know and probably don’t love. Static electricity occurs more often during the winter because there are fewer water particles in the air to dissipate the “stuck” electrons. This is a nuisance, but also a potential danger.
Nearby electrical currents and flammable substances can be affected, resulting in powerful shocks. Simply using a humidifier can help offset the dryness and alleviate static electricity.
Issue 5 - Damaged Outdoor Fixtures
Extreme cold, ice build up and large amounts of heavy snow can damage outside electrical outlets, extension cords and fixtures.
When these items are damaged they could short circuit and become unsafe to use.
To help prevent this, we recommend the installation of weather-rated fixtures including water-proof outlet covers, and to do a regular visual inspection for wear and damage.
Winter Electrical Repairs From The Experts at 4-Star Electric
A reliable power supply is the key to home comfort and safety this holiday season and beyond. When issues arise that require immediate attention, you can trust the experts at 4-Star Electric!
Evaluation
Upon arrival, your electrician will conduct a thorough assessment of the issue and quickly identify its cause. They will focus on immediate hazards such as exposed wires, electrical fire, power outages or sparking.
Your electrician will then review your current electrical system to ensure that any temporary fixes or repairs will meet local electrical codes and safety standards.
Recommendation
Your electrician will provide immediate actions to stabilize the situation, including temporary repairs, isolating faulty circuits or implementing safety measures.
They will then discuss long-term solutions to fully fix the underlying issue.
A detailed cost and timeline breakdown will be provided so you are well informed of the work.
Repair
Your electrician will proceed with the necessary emergency repairs, working quickly to ensure the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system.
If the issue requires more extensive work that cannot be completed immediately, your electrician will implement temporary solutions to ensure your home remains safe until permanent repairs can be made.
After completing the emergency repair your electrician will do a complete inspection to ensure quality workmanship. You can have total confidence in our team, we provide the highest quality repair services, and we’re proud to offer industry-leading repair and replacement guarantees, as well as 100% satisfaction guarantees.
Winter in Alberta brings a unique set of challenges, but don’t let your home’s electrical system be one of them. By staying informed on common winter electrical issues you can take proactive steps to keep your home warm, lit and protected all season long.
4-Star Electric has been the Calgary Area’s preferred choice for residential electrical service for over 35 years. With our experienced electricians, fully stocked service trucks and industry leading guarantees, you can count on us! Give us a call today, whether it’s an electrical inspection, panel upgrade or lighting installation, we’ve got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as an electrical emergency?
If you see or experience any of the electrical issues below, call a 4-Star Electric emergency service electrician immediately.
- Exposed live wires.
- Water in contact with electrical components.
- Power outage throughout your entire home.
- Sparks or smoke coming from your outlets.
Our electrical experts will provide steps for immediate action and dispatch an electrician to help you as soon as possible.
How can I avoid electrical emergencies?
Prevention is key. That means repairing or replacing old or damaged electrical wiring before it becomes an issue. You can help prevent electrical emergencies with the following products and services:
- Annual Electrical Inspections (especially for older homes)
- Whole-Home Surge Protectors
- Rewiring Services (to replace aluminum wiring)
Call us today and ask us about our Home Protection Plan. We offer fully-backed electrical service and extended warranties to ensure you, your family, and your home are protected.
