Prepare for Electrical Storms

Prepare for Electrical Storms

How to Prepare for Electrical Storms: Tips from Gowdy Electric

Weeks before dark skies or weather alerts roll in, it’s time to think about your home’s electrical resilience. Storms can cause power surges, outages, and damage to wiring – so being prepared isn’t just smart, it’s essential. Here’s a proactive checklist from your trusted team at Gowdy Electric.

Why Electrical Preparedness Matters

  • Protect Your Appliances: Even a brief power surge can fry costly equipment – think refrigerators, TVs, or smart devices.

  • Prevent Fire Risks: Water intrusion or downed lines can lead to shorts or dangerous conditions.

  • Ensure Residential & Business Continuity: Even short outages disrupt work and daily routines.

Step 1: Install Surge Protection at the Panel

You may have power strips with surge protection – but that only goes so far. A whole-home surge protector connected directly to your breaker panel offers far stronger defense. It helps absorb voltage fluctuations before they enter your circuits.

Gowdy Tip: Choose a unit rated for your home’s voltage and amp capacity, and have a licensed electrician install it for maximum effectiveness.

Step 2: Test and Replace Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

During electrical storms, moisture and condensation can create hazardous paths for power. GFCIs – typically found in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor outlets – serve as critical safety devices.

Test Tip: Flip the “Test” button regularly; if it doesn’t cut power, it’s time to replace it. Make sure your Beaufort‑styled patio outlet and bathroom GFCIs are responding correctly.

Step 3: Get a Professional Backup Power Assessment

Do you rely on powered devices for work, healthcare, or comfort? If a blackout will severely impact your day-to-day, consider these solutions:

  • Portable Generators: Great for short-term outages.

  • Standby Generators: Automatic and capable of powering your whole home or business.

  • Battery Backup Systems & Solar + Storage: Clean, smart, and ideal for extended outages.

We’ll help you evaluate your needs and recommend systems tailored to your load and budget.

Step 4: Secure and Inspect Wiring Ahead of Bad Weather

Whether it’s strong winds, rain, or hail, outer-wall wiring – including any exposed conduit or outlet housing – can take a beating. Loose fittings or old wiring can lead to moisture intrusion, corrosion, and eventually shorts.

Our Inspection Covers:

  • Sealing or replacing weathered outlet covers

  • Ensuring attic wiring is up to code and moisture shielded

  • Evaluating any aluminum wiring or vintage installations for risk

Step 5: Schedule a Post-Storm Safety Review

Storms can mask subtle electrical damage. After the weather clears, consider a post-event inspection to:

  • Identify wiring exposed to moisture or wind stress

  • Test GFCIs and bonding

  • Check for signs of insect or rodent damage around eaves and wires

A quick follow-up visit can prevent long-term problems and ease safety concerns.

Why Gowdy Electric Is Your Trusted Partner

  • Licensed, background-checked electricians with years of experience

  • Detailed safety-first assessments

  • Transparent quotes with no surprises

  • Emergency support when storms hit

Final Thoughts

Storm season doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation – surge protection, GFCI care, backup systems, and professional wiring checks – you can keep your home or business safe and powered, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Want help preparing for the next storm, or curious about a backup system or surge protector? Contact Gowdy Electric today for a friendly consultation and peace of mind.

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