Is Your Electrical System Storm-Ready?

Summer brings longer days, backyard barbecues, vacations, and plenty of time spent outdoors. But it also marks the beginning of thunderstorm season. Heavy rain, lightning, high winds, and power outages can put your home’s electrical system to the test, and if your electrical system isn’t prepared, a summer storm can leave behind more than just downed tree branches.

The good news is that a little preparation now can help protect your home, your family, and your electronics before the next storm rolls in.

At High West Electric, we help homeowners stay safe year-round. Here are a few ways to make sure your electrical system is ready for summer storm season.

Protect Your Home From Power Surges

One of the biggest threats during a thunderstorm isn’t always a direct lightning strike. Power surges can occur when lightning strikes nearby or when electricity is restored after an outage.

These sudden spikes in voltage can damage expensive electronics and appliances, including:

• Televisions
• Computers
• Wi-Fi equipment
• Kitchen appliances
• HVAC systems
• Smart home devices
• Garage door openers

While power strips offer some protection, they’re only designed to safeguard the devices plugged directly into them.

A whole-home surge protector offers a much higher level of protection by helping prevent damaging voltage spikes from entering your home’s electrical system in the first place.

It’s a simple upgrade that can save you from costly repairs or replacements after a storm.

Check Your Electrical Panel

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system.

If your panel is outdated, overloaded, or showing signs of wear, it may struggle to safely handle electrical demands during severe weather.

Some warning signs include:

• Breakers that trip frequently
• Buzzing or crackling sounds
• Burn marks around the panel
• Flickering lights
• Rust or corrosion
• Warm spots on the panel

If you’ve noticed any of these issues, don’t wait until the next storm to have them inspected.

A licensed electrician can determine whether repairs or an upgrade are needed to keep your home safe.

Test Your GFCI Outlets

Summer storms often bring heavy rain and increased moisture.

That’s why Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are especially important in areas where water and electricity may come into contact.

You’ll commonly find GFCI outlets in:

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Garages
• Basements
• Laundry rooms
• Outdoor living areas

These outlets are designed to quickly shut off power if they detect a fault, helping reduce the risk of electrical shock.

Most GFCI outlets have a “Test” and “Reset” button that allow homeowners to verify they’re working properly.

If an outlet doesn’t reset or fails the test, it should be inspected or replaced by a qualified electrician.

Inspect Outdoor Electrical Equipment

Your home’s outdoor electrical components face the elements year-round.

Before storm season is in full swing, take a few minutes to inspect:

• Exterior outlets
• Outdoor lighting
• Landscape lighting
• Extension cords
• Electrical boxes
• Pool or hot tub equipment
• Outdoor ceiling fans

Look for cracked covers, exposed wiring, water damage, or loose connections.

Damaged outdoor electrical equipment should never be ignored, especially before heavy rain arrives.

Proper weatherproof covers and professional repairs help keep your outdoor electrical system operating safely.

Don’t Overload Portable Generators

If you rely on a portable generator during power outages, it’s important to use it safely.

Portable generators should always be operated outdoors and away from windows, doors, and garages to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.

Equally important is making sure your generator is connected properly.

Never plug a generator directly into a household outlet, a dangerous practice sometimes called “backfeeding.” This can send electricity back into utility lines, creating serious hazards for utility workers and your home’s electrical system.

If you frequently lose power, talk with a licensed electrician about installing a transfer switch or a permanent standby generator that can provide safe, reliable backup power when you need it most.

Trim Trees Around Power Lines

While tree trimming isn’t electrical work, it’s an important part of storm preparation.

Overgrown branches can damage power lines during high winds, increasing the likelihood of outages and creating dangerous conditions.

If you notice tree limbs growing near electrical service lines, avoid attempting to trim them yourself.

Always contact your utility company or a qualified professional for assistance.

Electricity and tree work are never a safe do-it-yourself combination.

Know When to Call an Electrician

After a major storm passes, take a careful look around your home before turning everything back on.

Call a licensed electrician if you notice:

• Burning smells
• Flickering or dimming lights
• Water around electrical panels
• Damaged outlets
• Exposed wiring
• Breakers that won’t reset
• Electrical equipment that stopped working after a surge

Even if everything appears normal, hidden damage can sometimes occur after severe weather.

Having your electrical system inspected can help identify potential issues before they become expensive repairs or safety hazards.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Summer storms are unpredictable, but your electrical system doesn’t have to be.

Taking proactive steps before storm season arrives can help protect your family, reduce the risk of electrical damage, and give you greater peace of mind when severe weather strikes.

Whether it’s installing whole-home surge protection, inspecting your electrical panel, testing GFCI outlets, or evaluating your home’s overall electrical system, preventive maintenance is always easier and often less expensive, than emergency repairs after a storm.

Trust High West Electric to Keep Your Home Protected

At High West Electric, we’re committed to helping homeowners stay safe through every season. Our experienced electricians provide thorough inspections, electrical repairs, panel upgrades, surge protection, generator solutions, and a wide range of residential electrical services designed to keep your home operating safely and efficiently.

If you’re unsure whether your electrical system is ready for summer storm season, we’re here to help. Our team can evaluate your home’s electrical system, answer your questions, and recommend solutions that fit your needs and budget.

Don’t wait until the next thunderstorm to discover a problem. Contact High West Electric today to schedule an electrical inspection and enjoy greater confidence knowing your home is prepared for whatever summer weather brings.

High West Electric is based in Denver, CO, and serves the entire metro area. Our customer service-based approach ensures that each client enjoys the process from installation to the end product – no matter the size of the job. Our goal is to be YOUR electrician and offer an experience that goes Beyond the Wires. Visit our website to learn more