Summer's On The Way: 4 Tips To Prevent Electrical Malfunction

Summer is almost here. You'll soon be using your air conditioner, ceiling fans, and a multitude of other electrical devices. With all that energy flowing through your home, it's just a matter of time before something shorts out. If that happens, you might find yourself without power – and cool air – for a few days while you have your electrical system repaired by someone like AAA Home Services. Here are four simple steps you can take, to reduce the chances of an electrical malfunction this summer.

Inspect the Circuit Board

If it's been a while since you inspected your circuit board, this might be a good time to take care of that. Faulty fuses and circuit breakers can cause your home to short out, which means your electricity will go out. If it's just one circuit that goes out, you'll only be without power to one area of your home. However, if multiple circuits go out, you could be looking at a total power outage. Before summer arrives, have your circuit board inspected. If your circuits are worn out, have them replaced as soon as possible.

Check the Wiring in the Attic

You might not realize this, but it's a good idea to inspect your wiring at least once a year – usually after the winter thaw. This is the time when those winter pests – such as rats, mice and squirrels – would have left their nests inside your attic. During the winter, pests can chew through the wiring will trying to build their nests. Before you're left facing an electrical fire caused by damaged wiring, head up into the attic and look for pest damage. It's also a good idea to look for signs of fraying, which could signify that your wiring is getting old and should be replaced.

Get Your Air Conditioner Serviced

If your air conditioner has been exposed to the elements all winter, now's the time to have it serviced. During the annual servicing, your HVAC contractor will look for visible signs of damage to the motor, blades, and electrical wiring. If your inspection identifies problems, you should have them taken care of before you turn your AC on this summer.

Test Your GFCI Outlets

If you have GFCI outlets in your home, it's a good idea to test them before summer arrives. The GFCI outlets are designed to shut power off to outlets at the first sign of trouble – such as contact with water. Locate the test and reset buttons on your GFCI outlets. Press the test button. It should stay pressed in until you press the reset button. If any of your GFCI outlets don't work properly, it's time to have them replaced.