It’s that time of the year again: the temperature’s dropping, the days are getting shorter, and snow is on the horizon. Winter remains the most challenging season to be a homeowner, but there are definitely steps you can take to ensure that your home’s electrical system doesn’t just survive the season, but thrive throughout it. Here’s everything you need to know for proper Greenland winter electrical prep.

Beware of Space Heaters

Space heaters are a handy device that allow you to easily heat individual spaces in your home without the need for a permanently installed heating fixture. While these products are handy in a pinch, you need to handle them with the utmost caution. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that more than 25,000 residential fires and more than 300 deaths are caused each year by space heaters. In the interest of safety, space heaters should not be left unattended when switched on., and should never be placed near or on top of any flammable surfaces such as furniture, clothes, drapes, and the like.

Make Sure Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Up to Date

Carbon monoxide related deaths are more common during the winter, due in large part to people staying indoors more often and burning CO producing fuels like wood, oil, and coal. Take a few minutes out to make sure your detectors are in working order, and if you don’t have detectors, getting some should be a top priority. 

Wire Your Holiday Light Displays Properly

On a more cheerful note, the start of winter means the holidays are here! A lot of folks in the Greenland area celebrate with some dazzling light displays. While we all love a good light show at Ryan Gath its best to set your lights up responsibly. Stick to the recommended wattage of a given fixture and don’t overload wall outlets. While a lot of homes require extension cords to make their displays work properly, we recommend you limit their use to a temporary basis to avoid overloads. 

Consider A Backup Generator

The scouts out there will agree: it never hurts to be prepared. That’s the philosophy behind generator ownership. Losing power is never ideal, but in the winter, it can be downright dangerous to yourself and your home. Things like frozen pipes, and fires started by candles are just a few of the possible threats posed by a winter power-outage, to say nothing of the misery caused by a lack of heat. A generator is one appliance you can leverage to ensure those situations never come true in your home. 

Call Up a Pro for More Intensive Electrical Work

We’re always going to support the DIY spirit, but in instances of your electrical system, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Improper handling of a wire or outlet can result in serious injury. Give the pros at Ryan Gath Electric a call when things go south in the winter.

Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Ryan Gath Electric is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page. Greenland Winter Prep.

By Ryan Gath Electric