Now that the weather is warmer in Winnipeg and individuals are investing more energy outside, it is essential to verify that electricals are working appropriately and that you are properly using anything run by electricity both inside and outside of your home. 

Your home’s electrical system is a very fundamental part of your home and can turn into a fire risk if it is not regularly kept up and cared for. While an intensive electrical inspection has to be done by a professional Winnipeg electrician, there are things that you as a property owner can do to guarantee that your electrical system is healthy and prepared for the summer months ahead. Below is a Spring electrical maintenance checklist that you can use as a guide so you can relax knowing your family and home in Winnipeg is safe for the rest of the year. 

As safety is always our priority, focusing on electrical awareness can help guarantee that injuries caused by electrical malfunctions be avoided.

1. Change Batteries in Smoke Detectors and Test Carbon Monoxide Detector

We put this one at the top of the list simply because most property holders comprehend the significance of checking the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. First, test both the smoke and carbon monoxide indicator by finding the test button on the front or side of every unit. In the event that the caution sound doesn’t go off, you may have to replace the batteries. Smoke alarms need to be tested each month since they can mean a difference between life and death. Carbon monoxide detectors require less support, however, they need to be changed at least every 5 years. In case you’re not particularly good at monitoring time, it will be wise to come up with a set reminder.

2. Inspect Electrical Cords, Outlets and Sockets

Check outlets and unplug extension cords and machines when not being used. In the event that you notice outlets that are stained or scorched outwardly, this might be an indication that your wiring is old or broken. Frayed or old wiring can prompt an electrical fire whenever left unrepaired. Also, if your outlets are obsolete it very well may be cause for concern. You’ll have to replace old outlets with GFCI outlets to eliminate the danger of electrical stun and forestall tipping your breakers. For circumstances that include replacing old outlets and fixing defective wiring, it is best you contact your local Winnipeg electrical contractor to inspect the power source and fix it accordingly.

Be sure to make a note to inspect all your indoor and outside cords and outlets, as they are usually neglected. Search for baggy fittings and frayed wires. 

3. Check Appliances and Machines

All machines and appliances need to be connected to a GFCI source for added grounding and surge protection. This is particularly the case with coolers, washers and dryers, and wall unit air conditioner systems. Ensure all appliance cords are in good condition and are not yet frayed. Any frayed cords can be a fire danger and should be fixed right away. 

4. Clean Air Vents and Filters

Whether you have a central heater and air conditioning unit or independent warming and A/C wall units, you’ll need to ensure they are free from any residue and trash. This means checking their filters. Dust, dirt, and allergens can gather through the cold weather months. For launderable filters, clean them appropriately. For dispensable filters, check out what size and sort of filters you need and get a replacement. Another important thing is to verify that all indoor and outside vents are free from obstructions.

5. Check the Exterior of Your Home

The outside of your house is comparably significant as the inside. Make sure that all the outdoor outlet covers can close appropriately and also inspect the open-air outlets to see if they are fit as a fiddle. Check that all outdoor lightings were not damaged because of the winter climate and check your property for tools or yard gear that might have been forgotten about and left plugged in. Ensure that trees are trimmed and not trapped with the fundamental electrical wires that go from your home to the road. In the event that a branch does manage to harm any of the external electrical wires, DO NOT move toward a live wire all alone. Quickly call your power company to send a crew out. 

6. Set up Your Home for Power Outages and Surges

With summer fastly drawing closer and temperatures likely on the rise, it will mean more homeowners running their cooling units nonstop. At the point when the electrical grid is invaded and pushed past beyond its limits, blackouts and surge can happen. It is significant that you have some additional safety measures set up in case of a blackout. Having your home furnished with entire house surge protection can help secure your home if the electrical grid encounters a shock or your appliances are conflicting with each other during top hours. Having a first aid kit with electric lamps, water and perhaps a hand-wrench charging station for your cell phone is consistently a smart thought. Lastly, generators are an astounding thought in the event that you are attempting to avoid blackouts altogether. A generator can power your home through storms, power surge, and unexpected disasters

7. Secure Electrical Lines on Your Swimming Pool

Ensure that the electrical connections on your pool and hot tubs are completely grounded. Utilize a water-safe outlet cover on your outdoor receptacles found close to the pool and utilize a ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) protection for all your pool electrical plugs. In the event that you use a wet-dry vacuum cleaner or pressure washer, adhere to the manufacturer’s instruction.

8. Schedule an Energy Audit

An energy audit is useful on the grounds that it allows homeowners to perceive how they can make upgrades to their electrical system, save energy and get a good deal on their service bill. Easily overlooked details like changing your water warmer temperature by only a couple degrees or installing a programmable thermostat can save you a significant measure of cash consistently. 

9. Schedule a Regular Electrical System Inspection

Some electrical hardware like air condition control systems and fans have been sitting inactive for quite a long time. Before you put them into overdrive, consider scheduling an electrical check up from a certified Winnipeg electrician. This forestalls expensive fixes, address failure, and recognizes expected risks. The last thing you need when the hotter months set in is a wrecked cooling system. So make sure to call the pro before it’s too late.

Now that the winter months are over,  it is a perfect chance for you to check down and compute your electric expenses and make a few improvements. Spring is the best and ideal opportunity to replace your air conditioner if it is on its last leg. Consider updating your lighting system as well to limit your general energy cost. Here and there, home upgrades like LED installations or water radiator setting change can have a major effect in your power use. Contact your local Winnipeg electrical contactor to help you decide with all of these.

Who to Call for Professional Electrical Inspections in Winnipeg 

Disregarding your electrical system this spring season won’t just mean putting your property at risk – it means putting your family in danger too. You can always have an electrical inspection routine on your own, however, when it is time to get your electrical system examined, you can trust the experts at Southcan Electric Ltd. 

Our electricians will be glad to help you with all your spring electrical maintenance repairs. Regular maintenance of your electrical system may recognize minor concerts before they become costly fixes. Let us help you with tackling your electrical issues. We can help give you an added peace of mind and ensure your safety. Contact us  204.230.3217 today!

_{“This blog is made accessible by Southcan Electric Ltd for educational purposes just to give the reader general data and an overall understanding on the particular subject above. The blog ought not to be utilized as a substitute for a licensed electrical professional in your state or region. Check with city and state laws prior to performing out any household project.”}