Preparing Your Home’s Electrical System for Hurricane Season

Central Florida knows hurricane season all too well. As Floridians, we’re no strangers to battening down the hatches and preparing for the potential of power outages. But what about your home’s electrical system? Here at A-Lumination Electric, we want to make sure your home is as prepared as you are. So, ‘let’s prepare your electrical system for hurricane season once and for all.

Before the Storm

The “calm before the storm” – literally. Here are some things you can do ahead of time to prepare for hurricane season in Florida:

• Inspection is Key: Schedule an inspection with a licensed electrician to identify any pre-existing issues. Look for frayed wires, loose connections, or outdated components. A professional can also ensure your circuit breaker panel is labeled correctly and functioning properly.
• Surge Protection: Lightning strikes and power fluctuations are common during storms. Invest in surge protectors to safeguard your electronics and appliances. Consider a whole-house surge protector for the main electrical panel, and individual surge protectors for valuable electronics.
• Power Outage Prep: Charge all your devices – phones, laptops, tablets – in case you lose power. Unplug non-essential electronics and move them to higher ground in case of flooding. Consider labeling your circuit breaker panel for easier shut-off if advised by local authorities.

Safety During the Storm

Preparing for a hurricane before the storm hits your area isn’t the only important thing. It’s also important to stay safe during the storm. Here’s how:

• Safety First: If there’s a power outage, turn off major appliances like the air conditioner and water heater to prevent damage when power returns. Never operate a portable generator indoors – carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk.
• Water and Electricity Don’t Mix: Stay away from downed power lines and flooded areas. If your home floods, assume all electrical components are compromised. Leave electrical work to a qualified professional once the storm has passed.

After the Storm

We’re all relieved when the storm passes through. But just because the storm is behind us, doesn’t mean everything involving our electrical system is, too. There are still a few things to do after the storm to ensure you and your family stay safe:

• Visual Inspection: Once it’s safe to go outside, do a quick visual inspection for downed power lines or damaged electrical equipment. Report any downed lines to your utility company immediately.
• Professional Help is Crucial: Don’t attempt to turn on your power or troubleshoot electrical issues yourself. Floodwater exposure or wind damage can create hidden dangers. Call a licensed electrician to assess the situation and ensure your home’s electrical system is safe before turning the power back on.
• Drying Out: If your home has flooded, allow for proper drying before using any electrical appliances. A qualified electrician can help ensure everything is dry and functioning properly before restoring power.

Contact A-Lumination Electric Today for All Your Electrical Needs Before, During, and After a Hurricane in Orlando, FL and the Surrounding Areas

Hurricanes are stressful, but with some preparation, you can minimize the impact on your home’s electrical system. By taking these steps and having a qualified electrician on call, you can weather the storm with a little more peace of mind. Here at A-Lumination Electric, we are Orlando’s trusted electrical experts. Call us today to schedule a pre-hurricane inspection and ensure your home’s electrical system is ready for anything!