Spring has arrived, and we’ve got you covered with this handy electrical spring cleaning checklist!
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed. Pick a particular date, such as Memorial Day, and do this vital inspection annually.
Clean Electrical Fixtures: Dust off ceiling fans, light fixtures, and lamps to decrease fire risk. Check that ceiling fans are set to rotate counter-clockwise to push cool air down, improving energy efficiency during warmer months.
Review Electrical Cords and Plugs: Look for frayed wires or cracked cords. Winter can be harsh on extension cords for holiday lighting or heating units. Replace damaged cords to avoid potential fire hazards.
Inspect Outdoor Lighting: Check outdoor lighting fixtures for any damage or wear from the winter weather. Replace cracked fixtures or burned-out bulbs. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce energy consumption and increase longevity.
GFCI Outlets: Ensure all ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets function correctly, especially outdoors or in damp locations like bathrooms and kitchens. Press the test button to see if the outlet shuts off power; it should reset easily. If it doesn’t, it may need replacement.
Prepare for Spring Storms: Before the spring storm season kicks in, verify that surge protectors are in place for sensitive electronics. Consider a whole-house surge protection system to safeguard all your appliances and electronics.
Assess Landscape Lighting Needs: Consider your current landscape lighting layout as you prepare for spring planting and outdoor living. It might be time to add lights or update existing fixtures to enhance safety and aesthetics.
Check Your Air Conditioning Unit: Ensure the electrical connections to your air conditioning unit are secure. It’s often beneficial to have an HVAC professional inspect the unit before the season of heavy use.
Plan for Outdoor Projects: If you're planning any outdoor projects involving digging, such as planting trees or installing a fence, call 811 to have underground utilities marked to avoid accidentally hitting electrical lines.
Schedule an Electrical System Inspection: After heavy winter usage from heating systems and holiday lighting, having a professional electrician inspect your electrical system is an excellent idea to ensure everything functions safely and efficiently.
Completing this checklist means a safer and more efficient home. Need help getting your home’s electrical systems in good order this spring? Contact one of our licensed electricians!
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