Common Summer Electrical Problems: How To Prevent Them

Rusty Electrical Panel

It’s been a hot summer in central and eastern Massachusetts. The summer heat doesn’t just bring humidity and sunburns. Electrical systems  can run into problems during hot summer weather. Landry Mechanical is here to break down the most common summer electrical problems: how to prevent them.

 

 

Damage From Insects and Pests

Humans aren’t the only animals that seek the shade when heat waves hit. Small animals like mice, rats, squirrels, and chipmunks can all nest within your home. These pests chew through electrical wires causing issues. Insects like termites and ants can build nests within your home’s electrical system leading to damaged fixtures and outlets.

Chipmunk
Chipmunks can create nests inside your home and damage electrical systems!

To keep insects and small animals out of your home consider the following:

 

  • Inspect your attic and garage wiring at least once per season
  • Inspect the outside of your home and look for potential access points
  • Use mouse traps, ant bait, and other poisons to kill small animals before they can build nests
  • Consider hiring a pest control company to remove pests from the home
Termite
Termites like this one can eat through electrical wires!

Did you end up finding any electrical damage from pests? “Just Call Landry” Our local electrical experts can help with electrical repair & troubleshooting to find and fix your problems.

 

Pool & Hot Tub Wiring Issues

Water exposure from pools and hot tubs can cause electrical issues. To prevent electrocution, it’s important to make sure your electrical system is running properly.

 

Consider checking the following before your next pool party:

 

  • Check any pool or hot tub wiring for cracked conduits or exposed wiring
  • Check GFCI outlets and make sure the outlets are functioning

 

GFCI Outlet Outdoors
GFCI outlets protect your home from power surges and keeps your outlets safe from water damage

 

Need a new GFCI outlet for your pool or hot tub? “Just Call Landry” Our electricians can install and repair GFCI outlets to keep your backyard safe.

 

Faulty Outdoor Lighting

 

Outdoor lighting can add ambiance to any backyard pool party or cookout. However, summer weather can degrade wires and bulbs leaving your event in the dark.

 

Here are some tips to keep your backyard lit up:

 

  • Use Proper Outdoor Lighting Fixtures that are Weather Rated
  • Check all lighting fixtures for corroded wires
  • Switch to LED’s to prevent overheating
  • Change any broken bulbs
IP Rating Chart for Outdoor Lighting
IP Ratings are important when it comes to outdoor lighting. The higher the rating the better the protection!

Need help with your faulty outdoor lighting? “Just Call Landry” our expert electricians offer tailored outdoor lighting solutions to light up your summer!

 

Overheated Electrical Panel

 

High heat with increased electrical usage can lead to overheating your electrical panel. Overheated electrical panels are dangerous and can cause electrical fires and breaker failure.

 

Here are some tips to prevent electrical panel overload:

  • Inspect your electrical panel for loose connections or rust
  • Ensure your electrical panel isn’t near anything flammable
  • Ensure your electrical panel is in a well-ventilated area
  • Have a Landry Electrician evaluate panel load and balance the circuit
Rusty Electrical Panel
Does your electrical panel look like this? Time For A Replacement From Landry!

Need a new electrical panel? “Just Call Landry” Our local electricians can inspect, repair, upgrade, and replace electrical panels!

 

Power Outages

 

Higher electrical use and thunderstorms often lead to power outages that can damage electronics.

 

Here are some steps you can take to stay safe during power outages:

 

  • Be prepared by keeping batteries, flashlights and candles in an easy to access place
  • Consider installing a whole home generator to keep electronics running smoothly
  • Install Whole-Home Surge Protectors to keep appliances safe from surges
Whole Home Surge Protector
Whole Home Surge Protectors keep your appliances and other electronics safe during power surges!

 

Interested in a generator or whole-home surge protector? “Just Call Landry” our local electrical experts can install generators and surge protectors to keep your home safe.

 

Air Conditioner Overload

Air conditioning units use a lot of power. If the circuit isn’t built to handle this increased usage it can cause breakers to trip or overheated wires.

 

Here are some tips to prevent A/C Overload:

 

  • Ensure your A/C filter and coils are cleaned regularly
  • Confirm the breaker size matches your A/C’s amp draw
  • Check to see if your A/C is on a dedicated circuit
  • If your circuit is undersized, “Just Call Landry”
Dirty A/C Filter
Does your A/C Filter look like this? Time to clean or replace it!

 

If you’re worried about air conditioner overload it’s best to “Just Call Landry” Our electrical experts are standing by ready to make sure your A/C runs smoothly this summer!

 

Conclusion

 

New England summers can cause many problems for your home’s electrical system. By taking preventive measures you can keep your electrical system running smoothly this summer.

If you run into any issues, “Just Call Landry” and we’ll do our best to keep your comfortable this summer.

 

Landry Mechanical We Take COMFORT in YOUR Comfort!

Top 5 Summer Electrical Projects to Boost Curb Appeal

Top 5 Summer Electrical Projects to Boost Curb Appeal

With summer coming around the corner, it’s the perfect time to take on new home projects! With the longer days and fresh weather, it’s never been easier. Electrical upgrades not only modernize your home but also boosts curb appeal and raises value. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start this summer to enjoy a more aesthetic home or looking to impress potential buyers, here are five electrical projects to consider this summer!

 

#1 Smart Outdoor Lighting

 

Outdoor Lighting Display at Night Time
Adding more LED lights to pathways, porches, or dark corners can create a more inviting environment.

 

Warmer weather brings family and friends together outside more. So why not replace old outdated lights with more energy efficient lighting to make it more enjoyable and cost effective! Adding more LED lights to pathways, porches, or dark corners can create a more inviting environment. Motion-sensor lights add an extra layer of security while boosting curb appeal. Dimming lights can also create the perfect ambiance while reducing energy consumption.

 

Are you interested in upgrading your outdoor lighting? “Just Call Landry” Our Electrical Experts are here to take your patio to the next level!

 

#2 EV Charging Station

EV Charging Station Charging Electric Vehicle

With rising popularity with electric vehicles, installing a home EV charging station would be a smart investment to boost your home’s value! EV owners love the convenience of being able to charge at home. EV charging stations are not only more efficient and practical but follow the “green mindset” that buyers are looking for. This can set your property apart and increase value. 

Interested in an electrical charging station in your home? “Just Call Landry” Our Electrical Experts frequently install EV Charging stations in Central & Eastern Mass!

 

#3 Electric Panel Upgrade

Electrical Panel Before & After Upgrade
Upgrading your electric panel will ensure more efficient energy usage and a safer environment.

Dated electrical panels may have a tough time keeping with the high demand that modern appliances bring. If you are experiencing flickering lights, frequent breaker trips, or a burning smell – it may be time to replace it. Upgrading your electric panel will ensure more efficient energy usage and a safer environment. It would also boost the appeal of new buyers.

Does your electrical panel need an upgrade? “Just Call Landry” our Electrical Experts will upgrade your panel and keep your home safe!

 

#4 Whole House Surge Protection

Electric Surge Protector Connected To Electrical Panel
Installing surge protectors ensures everything from your refrigerator to your TV stays safe.

Electrical surges can damage expensive appliances and electronics. Installing surge protectors ensures everything from your refrigerator to your TV stays safe. The peace of mind of installing surge protectors also goes farther to even having long term savings! It reduces the risks of fires, extends lifespans of appliances and electronics, and prevents costly repairs. Having a safer and more efficient house is a major selling point for potential buyers and increases value in your home.

 

Want to protect your appliances from electrical surges? “Just Call Landry” Our Electrical Experts can install a whole home surge protector today!

 

#5 Solar Power

Solar Panels on Home
Switching to Solar promotes sustainability and ends up saving you more money!

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular. Solar panels would not only be more energy efficient but are very sought after for potential buyers. Homeowners would be able to generate their own electricity to power their homes and A/C this summer! Solar panels also come with government tax incentives and rebates to make the installation more affordable. Switching to solar promotes sustainability and ends up saving you more money!

 

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about boosting your home’s value this summer, consider these tips from Landry Mechanical! We’re here to bring comfort to your home and elevate your home’s curb appeal.

Landry Mechanical, We Take COMFORT in YOUR Comfort!!