Winter is a terrible time to have electrical issues or experience a loss of power. Freezing temperatures, winter storms, or slick surfaces can turn a simple power outage into something dangerous. Nipper Electric is here to help you tame those winter electrical issues. Our staff has over 15 years of Virginia Beach electrical experience. We’ll work overtime to make sure you have a safe and warm winter. To help you, we’ve made a list of some of the top winter electrical problems and how to deal with them.
- Damaged Electrical Wiring– Your electrical systems, at home and at work, all suffer wear and tear over time. Make sure you check the following for wear or tear:
- Weatherheads
- Meter Boxes
- Cable Junctions
- Outlets
- Cords
- Wiring (you’ll notice sparking, arcing, loose plugs, and/or warm outlets when electrical wiring is worn.
If any of these items are worn out or torn, call you trusted Virginia Beach electrician to come and repair or replace them. Even small tears can turn into big problems.
Downed Power Lines- In severe winter weather, falling snow can quickly melt then ice over. The added weight from the ice can pull down branches or even weigh down power lines. For downed power lines, the best defense is actually an offensive move. Make sure all overhanging branches are trimmed and removed. Contact your electrical power company. They will handle any branches near power lines, this is not a DIY job. In the event that a power line has fallen or is becoming weighed down, immediately call your power company and/or emergency services. While you wait for a response, follow these guidelines:
[checklist]- Stay at least 30 feet away from the downed wire.
- Do not drive over the electrical wire. You can still suffer electrical shock, even inside your car.
- Do not use any wood, branches or other items to move the wire.
- Keep children and animals inside the house or at a safe distance.
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Downed Power Lines- - Safe Breathing- One of the biggest winter issues is often a silent one. Carbon monoxide poisoning and electrical fires are both big problems during winter months. During a power outage, people will use kerosene lamps for warmth, turn on their generators, or light fires in the fireplace. Make sure there is enough ventilation to keep fumes from occurring. Also be certain to install a smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, or a combination alarm that has both. Nipper Electric is happy to help you choose, install, and program the right alarm for your home.
- Electrical Fires– Besides being careful with carbon monoxide, you must also be very careful with electrical fire hazards. If the power goes out, try to make sure you haven’t left anything big on. Check your stove, space heaters, and other dangerous appliances are turned off, just in case the electricity is restored while you sleep. Make sure plugs, panels, heating sources, and space heaters are all safe. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to call a professional electrician to help with troubleshooting. It’s better safe than sorry. Plus, most dependable electricians will give you free estimates and even come check issues for you at little to no cost.
Bundle Up or Generate Warmth– In the case of a winter power outage, the biggest issue you will have is going to be staying warm. Contain and create warmth by:
Bundle Up or Generate Warmth– - Wear Hats– Especially while sleeping. Most of your body heat escapes through your head, this will help trap it.
- Move to One or Two Rooms– Live in a couple basic rooms, shut off all other rooms and plug up big drafts.
- Use a Generator– If you have a generator, use it cautiously and carefully. Watch for ventilation. If you don’t have a generator, consider getting one. They are a great investment, especially in our area.
- Bundle Up– Wear layers of clothing to keep you warm but not too warm.
- Create Heat– You can use your wood burning stove, kerosene lamp, or fireplace to create some heat, but be cautious of carbon monoxide. Make sure any open flames are carefully monitored and that the air quality is still breathable.
Bringing Peace of Mind During Power Outages
While you can’t avoid all power outages, there are a lot of ways you can protect your home or office from dangerous power issues. Nipper Electric offers clear cut pricing, local discounts, and free estimates to help you with any electrical situation. If you have any questions on how to keep your home or office safe during a winter power outage, call us right away at 757-842-1710 or make an appointment online. We are here to help you stay safe in any loss of power.
