Electrical Safety Tips for Summer
Summer brings warm weather, longer days—and the heightened risk of severe thunderstorms. In Maryland, sudden downpours, lightning, and power outages can all wreak havoc on your home’s electrical system. At Cook Electric, we’ve seen how damaging these weather events can be if your home isn’t properly prepared. In this article, we’ll share essential tips to help homeowners safeguard their electrical systems during storm season, reduce the risk of electrical fires, and keep your family safe.
Why Summer Storms Are a Real Electrical Threat
Thunderstorms don’t just bring heavy rain—they often come with lightning strikes, fallen branches, and unstable power lines. A single lightning strike can send thousands of volts surging through your home’s electrical system. Power outages and voltage spikes can damage expensive appliances, electronics, and even your home’s wiring. Taking preventive steps before the storm hits can save you from costly repairs and major disruptions.
1. Install Surge Protection—Whole House and Point-of-Use
One of the most effective ways to protect your home’s electrical system during summer storms is by using surge protectors. There are two main types:
- Point-of-use surge protectors (the kind you plug your computer or TV into) help shield sensitive electronics from smaller surges.
- Whole-house surge protectors, installed directly at your main electrical panel, offer broader protection by stopping high-voltage spikes before they enter your home’s wiring.
A whole-house surge protector acts as your first line of defense during a lightning strike or power surge. It’s a wise investment, especially for homes with expensive appliances, smart home systems, or home office setups. Cook Electric can install whole-house surge protection that works in tandem with your existing breakers.
2. Schedule a Professional Electrical Inspection Before Storm Season
Routine maintenance is key to ensuring your system is storm-ready. Before summer arrives in full force, schedule a professional electrical inspection. During this check-up, Cook Electric’s licensed electricians will:
- Examine your electrical panel and breakers for signs of corrosion or overload.
- Check grounding and bonding systems to ensure safe current flow.
- Identify outdated or faulty wiring that could pose a fire risk.
- Recommend any necessary upgrades to meet current electrical code.
An inspection gives you peace of mind and can uncover hidden hazards that could worsen during a storm.
3. Unplug Devices During Severe Storms
When a powerful storm rolls in, the safest move is to unplug major appliances and sensitive electronics. Even with surge protection, an extreme power surge from a lightning strike can overwhelm protective devices. Unplugging TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances when you know a storm is approaching adds another layer of safety.
4. Use a Backup Generator Safely
Many homeowners in Maryland invest in standby or portable generators to keep power flowing during outages. But improper generator use can be dangerous. Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet—that can cause backfeeding, which endangers utility workers and your electrical system.
If you rely on a backup generator, have it professionally installed with a transfer switch that isolates it from the main grid. Cook Electric offers generator wiring and setup services that ensure your backup system is safe and code-compliant.
5. Secure and Inspect Outdoor Electrical Components
Summer storms can damage outdoor electrical features like landscape lighting, hot tub wiring, and outlets near decks or patios. Before the season starts, check for:
- Frayed wires or exposed connections
- Water pooling near outlets or extension cords
- Loose or cracked weatherproof outlet covers
Replace or repair any damaged components right away. For added safety, consider upgrading outdoor outlets to GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) receptacles, which shut off power if they detect a fault.
6. Know When to Call a Professional
If you experience flickering lights, frequent breaker trips, or outlets that don’t work after a storm, don’t wait. These can be signs of hidden damage that puts your home at risk. Cook Electric’s experienced team is available to troubleshoot issues, repair storm damage, and restore your system to safe working order.
Storm-Proof Your Home with Cook Electric
At Cook Electric, we’ve proudly served Maryland homeowners for decades, offering trusted electrical services backed by quality craftsmanship and prompt, courteous service. Summer storms may be unpredictable, but your electrical safety doesn’t have to be.
Let’s make sure your home is storm-ready. Contact us today to schedule a safety inspection, surge protection installation, or backup power consultation.