When storm season arrives in Eugene, your home’s electrical system can be put to the test. High winds, heavy rain, and lightning strikes increase the risk of power surges, outages, and electrical hazards. At Associated Heating and Air Conditioning, we want to help you protect your home, your family, and your investments. Our licensed electricians provide expert electrical services and reliable solutions to keep your electrical system running safely, no matter the weather.
Inspect Your Electrical System Before the Storm
- Have a qualified electrician check your electrical panel, wiring, and outlets for signs of wear or damage before the storm season begins
- Make sure all outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of electrical shock
- Consider upgrading old wiring or outdated panels to handle the demands of modern appliances and electronics safely
Invest in Whole-Home Surge Protection
Lightning strikes and downed power lines can send sudden electrical spikes through your home’s wiring. These surges can damage sensitive electronics, appliances, and even your HVAC system. Whole-home surge protectors installed by Associated Heating and Air Conditioning offer a first line of defense against costly damage. They work at your electrical panel to stop excess voltage before it reaches your devices.
Use Portable Generators Safely
Portable generators can be a lifesaver during an outage, but they must be used correctly to avoid dangerous situations.
- Never operate a generator indoors or in an enclosed space
- Keep generators at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup
- Avoid connecting a generator directly to your home’s wiring unless a transfer switch has been installed by a licensed electrician
Secure Outdoor Electrical Equipment
Before storms roll in, check outdoor outlets, lighting, and other electrical fixtures. Make sure they have proper weatherproof covers and are rated for outdoor use. If you have a hot tub, pool, or outdoor kitchen, ensure all associated wiring is protected and up to code. Our team can inspect and repair outdoor electrical systems to reduce hazards during heavy rain and high winds.
Know How to Respond to Electrical Issues During a Storm
If you notice flickering lights, burning smells, or unusual buzzing sounds from your panel or outlets, turn off the power at the breaker and call a professional immediately. Avoid touching electrical equipment if you are standing in water or if the equipment is wet. Never attempt to repair storm-damaged wiring yourself; our electricians have the tools and training to handle these situations safely.
Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Storm season is a good time to evaluate whether your home’s electrical panel meets your needs. An outdated panel can make your system more vulnerable to surges and overloads. Upgrading to a modern panel improves safety, provides capacity for future upgrades, and ensures your home is ready for backup power solutions like whole-home generators.
Schedule Preventive Maintenance
Routine electrical inspections and maintenance from Associated Heating and Air Conditioning can identify and fix issues before they turn into emergencies. Our experienced electricians understand the unique weather challenges in Eugene and can recommend upgrades and safety measures tailored to your home.
Contact Associated Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. today for electrical service.