It’s fall task list time! While we often focus on things like weatherstripping windows and tuning up the furnace, electrical safety is another crucial aspect of home maintenance that shouldn’t be overlooked. At Northern Mister Sparky of the Twin Cities, we believe that a proactive approach to electrical safety is the best way to avoid potential problems. Ensuring your electrical system is in good working order can prevent hazards and keep your home and family safe during the darker, colder months when electrical demands often increase.
Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you get your home electrically ready for fall and winter:
1. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Between increased cooking duties and a working heating system, your home needs functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors more than ever. Test the batteries in all your detectors and replace them if needed. It’s generally recommended to replace the batteries twice a year. That’s why people often change their batteries when changing their clocks for daylight savings time. Ensure you have detectors on each level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Consider replacing any smoke detectors that are more than 10 years old. Northern Mister Sparky can help homeowners determine where the new detectors should be placed and whether your current ones are in good condition.
2. Inspect outlets and switches for electrical safety
When did you last check your home’s outlets and light switches? Fall is an ideal time to walk through and make sure nothing important is overlooked. Keep an eye out for any outlets that are loose, cracked, or discolored. These can be signs of underlying issues and potential fire hazards. Test all Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets – the ones with the “test” or “reset” buttons on the faceplate. GFCI outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock in damp locations.
3. Examine extension cords and power strips
As we spend more time indoors, the use of extension cords and power strips often increases. Inspect all cords for any signs of damage, such as fraying, cuts, or exposed wires. Avoid overloading power strips and never run extension cords under rugs or furniture, as this can trap heat and create a fire risk. Extension cords are intended for temporary use only; if you find yourself relying on them regularly, it’s a sign you may need more outlets installed. (Hint: Northern Mister Sparky can take care of the job for you.)
4. Check your circuit breaker panel
Your circuit breaker panel is the central control for your home’s electrical system. Ensure that all breakers are labeled clearly and correctly. Familiarize yourself with the location of the main breaker and how to turn it off in case of an emergency. If you notice any breakers tripping frequently, that indicates an overload or a potential problem in that circuit. Don’t repeatedly reset tripping breakers without identifying and addressing the underlying cause; call Northern Mister Sparky so one of our trained electricians can fix the problem.
5. Inspect indoor and outdoor lighting to ensure electrical safety
With shorter days, you’ll be relying more on both indoor and outdoor lighting. Check all light fixtures to ensure they are in good working order. Replace any burnt-out bulbs so you’re not sitting in the dark! Inspect outdoor lighting fixtures for any damage or exposure to the elements.
6. Evaluate heating appliance cords and plugs
If you use portable space heaters, inspect their cords and plugs carefully before use. Ensure they are in good condition and plug them directly into a wall outlet. Never plug space heaters into extension cords or power strips, as this can overload the circuit and create a fire hazard. Keep space heaters away from flammable materials like curtains, blankets, and furniture.
7. Consider an electrical system check-up
For a more thorough assessment of your home’s electrical system, consider scheduling a professional electrical safety inspection with Northern Mister Sparky. Our licensed electricians can check for any hidden issues, ensure your wiring is up to code, assess the capacity of your electrical panel, and provide recommendations for upgrades or repairs to enhance safety and efficiency.
Keep your home and family safe this winter when you team up with Northern Mister Sparky. If you have any questions about your home’s electrical system, or if you’re interested in talking about new electrical outlets or an electrical panel upgrade, call us now at (763) 335-6890. Prefer to book your appointment online? Stop by our website and click on the “schedule now” button in the upper right corner. Northern Mister Sparky is equipped to handle any system – any brand, any age. Trust your home to Northern Mister Sparky.