Florida is renowned for its sunny beaches, but it’s also notorious for its unpredictable and often severe weather. Unexpected storms, characterized by sudden, intense bursts of wind, rain, and lightning, can wreak havoc on homes and their electrical systems. In this blog, we’ll share crucial tips on how to safely deal with freak storms and how to address any electrical damage that might occur.
Preparing for a Storm
Inspect Your Electrical System Regularly: Before storm season hits, it’s essential to have a professional electrician inspect your electrical system. This proactive approach can prevent potential hazards during a storm.
Install Surge Protectors: Power surges caused by lightning strikes can damage your appliances and electronics. Installing whole-house surge protectors can safeguard your valuable equipment from these sudden spikes in electricity.
Secure Outdoor Electrical Fixtures: Ensure that all outdoor electrical fixtures, such as lighting and outlets, are securely mounted and properly sealed to prevent water ingress. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and proper sealing can mitigate the risk of electrical shorts and fires.
Trim Trees and Maintain Landscaping: Overhanging branches and debris can cause significant damage to your home’s electrical system if they fall during a storm. Regularly trim trees and clear any potential hazards from your yard to minimize this risk.
During the Storm
Unplug Appliances and Electronics: To prevent damage from power surges, unplug all non-essential appliances and electronics. This includes televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances. If you have a standby generator, ensure it is properly connected and ready to provide power if the main supply is interrupted.
Avoid Using Wired Electronics: During a storm, avoid using wired electronics like landline phones and wired internet connections. Lightning can travel through these lines and cause serious injury or damage.
Stay Indoors and Away from Electrical Sources: Stay indoors and avoid contact with any electrical sources, including outlets, switches, and appliances. Lightning can cause unpredictable power surges that may be hazardous.
Monitor Weather Updates: Keep an eye on weather updates and heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities. Knowing when a storm is likely to strike can give you precious time to prepare and secure your home.
After the Storm
Inspect for Damage: Once the storm has passed, carefully inspect your home for any signs of electrical damage. Look for frayed wires, scorch marks around outlets, and damaged appliances. If you notice any issues, contact a professional electrician immediately to assess and repair the damage.
Check for Water Damage: Water damage can compromise your home’s electrical system. If any areas of your home have been flooded or exposed to water, do not attempt to turn on the power. Instead, call a professional electrician to evaluate the situation and ensure it’s safe to restore power.
Test GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to protect you from electric shock by shutting off power when a fault is detected. Test all GFCI outlets to ensure they are functioning correctly. If any are not working properly, have them replaced by a certified electrician.
Document and Report Damage: If you find any damage to your electrical system or home, document it with photos and detailed notes. This information will be useful when filing an insurance claim. Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible to expedite the claims process.
Recovering with Tru-Line Electric
At Tru-Line Electric, we bring over 40 years of combined electrical and construction experience to customers in Palm Harbor and surrounding areas. Our technicians are background-checked, certified, and drug-tested, ensuring you receive the highest quality service. We prioritize on-time service with clear two- or four-hour windows, use only high-quality products, and provide upfront pricing with no hidden costs. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee ensures that if you're unhappy for any reason, we will work hard to resolve the issue immediately.
For expert assistance in preparing for, weathering, and recovering from powerful storms, contact Tru-Line Electric at (727) 308-6680 to experience the TRU Difference.