December 12, 2025
Preventing Hazards During Winter: What Every Homeowner Should Know
With the first signs of winter weather behind us, now is the perfect time to make sure you and your home’s electrical system are prepared for all the storms still ahead. Understanding the dangers of winter and taking precautions can keep your family, home, and electrical system safe. Here are the things to be aware and prepared for:
- Overloaded Circuits
During winter, many homes use electric blankets, holiday lights, space heaters and candle warmers that add extra demand. Combined with storm-instibility this can easily lead to wires overheating and breakers tripping. Make sure to use separate circuits when possible and avoid plugging multiple high draw devices at once to avoid these dangers. If Santa left you something special this holiday that draws a lot of electricity, such as an electric vehicle or hot tub, you may also need to consider upgrading your home’s electrical service.
- Downed Power Lines
Snow and ice can add excessive weight to tree branches, often resulting in trees falling on power lines and knocking them out. This can create dangerous live wire situations. Always assume down lines are live and stay at least 30 feet away from them at all times.
- Space Heaters
Space heaters are a great tool, but become especially risky in cold homes during storms. Space heaters pull a lot of power and using them with wires, circuits, or outlets that are not at full strength can cause overheating, tripped breakers, and electrical fires. Make sure to always plug space heaters directly into the wall and consider having an electrician check your system before using them
- Electrical Panels and Breakers
Harsh storms can cause stress on older panels. Make sure after major weather to inspect your panel and look for any buzzing, burn marks, unexplained heat, or a breaker that won’t reset. Call a professional if anything seems unusual after a storm.
Winter weather can be unpredictable, but electrical safety doesn’t have to be. A few precautions and awareness of safety measures can ensure you enjoy the season. If you have any questions, you can always count on a licensed electrician, like Esposito’s Electric, to help. Esposito’s Electric is located in Denville, NJ and you can contact them anytime at 973-366-9902.