There are several benefits that come from living near the coast. Enjoying the somewhat endless sunshine and beauty that the beach brings is a big one. However, when you live near the coast, at least in Florida, you have to worry about hurricane season every year. There are several things that you can do in your home to ensure your electrical system is ready for whatever hurricane season may throw at you. Simon Electric is here to share our best tips to make sure your electrical system is ready.
How Can You Protect the Electrical System in Your Home for a Hurricane?
Whenever a hurricane hits land, you can almost count on losing power throughout it all. This can leave power companies scrambling to get everybody back up and running again. While there is nothing you can really do to prevent this, you can take steps to ensure your electrical system isn’t damaged once power is back up and running. Following is what you can do to make sure your electrical system is ready.
– Whole House Surge Protector: The first thing you should strongly consider is having a whole house surge protector installed in your home. Often, a hurricane can cause extensive damage to the electrical grid infrastructure. When power is restored, it can cause severe power surges to happen. If you don’t have a surge protection system on your home, all the appliances will experience serious damage that can leave them useless. A whole house surge protector can help you avoid this problem.
– Electrical Codes: Your wiring needs to be up to code in your home. This is something you can’t look into on your own. It is worth having your electrical system inspected to make sure there isn’t anything that needs to be updated before hurricane season hits. If you live in a flood plain or a surge zone, you need to have underground wiring or UF wiring to meet code. If you don’t, you need an electrician to get you up to code before hurricanes hit.
– GFCI Outlets: Ground fault circuit interrupt outlets are essential when water is involved. When water comes in contact with electrical system, these outlets can help you avoid damage to your system and ensure you are healthy and safe as well. If you are planning on using a portable generator to power your home, you will also need to make sure you are using a GFCI outlet as well. This way, you know that you are as safe as possible while using the generator.
– Transfer Switch Installation for Portable Generator: Portable generators can keep your appliances and devices running as well as the light own when the power goes out. The main benefit of having a transfer switch installed is that it gives you the ability to power electronics via your circuit breaker panel instead of having to use extension cords.
Electrical Wiring, Lighting & Fixture Installations & More in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County, Florida
As we get ready to head into hurricane season, it’s more important than ever to make sure your electrical system is ready for it. At Simon Electric, we have the training and expertise needed to make sure your home is safe and ready for whatever mother nature throws its way. Whether you’re in need of a whole house surge protector, transfer switch or electrical upgrades, you don’t regret choosing us. Call us today!
