As the crisp fall air settles over Western New York, homeowners begin preparing for cooler temperatures, earlier sunsets, and cozy nights indoors. But before you plug in those space heaters or string up festive outdoor lights, it’s important to make sure your home’s electrical system is ready for the season. When it comes to electrical in Buffalo, safety and preparation can make all the difference in protecting your home and family during the colder months.
At Scherer Electric, we care about keeping your home safe, efficient, and comfortable all year long. Here are some essential fall electrical safety tips every Buffalo homeowner should know before winter arrives.
1. Check Your Extension Cords for Safety
Fall is the season for decorating, power tools, and portable heaters — all of which rely heavily on extension cords. Unfortunately, these convenient cords can also be a major fire hazard if misused. Always inspect cords for frayed wires, cracked insulation, or damaged plugs before use. Avoid running extension cords under rugs, through doorways, or across high-traffic areas where they can be pinched or tripped over.
If you find yourself using multiple extension cords regularly, it may be time to install additional outlets. A licensed electrician from Scherer Electric can safely add outlets where you need them most, reducing clutter and potential hazards. Remember, extension cords are designed for temporary use, not as a permanent power solution.
2. Prepare Outdoor Lighting for Shorter Days
As daylight hours decrease, outdoor lighting becomes more important for safety, security, and convenience. Take some time this fall to inspect all outdoor fixtures around your home. Check for loose connections, burned-out bulbs, or water intrusion that could cause electrical shorts.
If your fixtures are outdated or inefficient, consider upgrading to LED lighting with weather-resistant housings. These not only use less energy but also stand up better to Buffalo’s harsh fall and winter conditions. Timers, photocells, and smart lighting controls can also help you maintain energy efficiency by ensuring your lights come on only when needed.
3. Schedule a Seasonal Electrical Inspection
Fall is the perfect time to schedule a professional electrical inspection—before the heavy electrical demands of winter kick in. A licensed Scherer Electric technician can check your home’s wiring, panel, outlets, and safety devices to ensure everything is functioning properly.
We’ll also test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, both of which are essential as you start using heating equipment more often. Identifying small issues now can prevent costly repairs or dangerous electrical problems later in the season.
4. Keep Outdoor Outlets Weather-Protected
With unpredictable fall rain and the first snowflakes just around the corner, it’s crucial to make sure all outdoor outlets are equipped with weatherproof covers. These “in-use” covers protect plugs from moisture even while they’re connected, reducing the risk of short circuits or electric shock.
5. Be Proactive, Stay Safe
A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to electrical safety. Taking the time now to inspect cords, prepare lighting, and schedule maintenance will help ensure a warm, worry-free fall and winter season.
