Learn how to prevent winter electrical problems with help from CMI Lighting.
Winter brings its own set of challenges, and for commercial property owners, electrical issues can be a significant concern during these cold months. From increased power usage to weather-related hazards, the winter season can put a strain on electrical systems, potentially leading to costly damages or disruptions. The commercial electricians of CMI Lighting know that safeguarding your property from these common electrical problems is essential to ensure a smoothly running operation throughout the winter months. Keep reading for tips on protecting your commercial property from three major winter electrical problems.
Overloaded Circuits
During winter, businesses tend to increase their reliance on electrical appliances like heaters, lighting systems, and other equipment to combat the cold. However, this heightened power demand can overload circuits, leading to tripped breakers, power outages, or even electrical fires.
Preventative Measures
- Audit and Upgrade: Conduct an audit of your electrical system to identify overloaded circuits. Consider upgrading circuits or adding additional outlets where needed.
- Distribute Load: Distribute high-power appliances across different circuits to avoid overloading specific ones.
- Professional Assessment: Engage a commercial electrician from CMI Lighting to evaluate your system’s capacity and make necessary adjustments or upgrades to handle increased winter demand.
Weather-Induced Damage
Snow, ice, and cold temperatures can wreak havoc on electrical systems, particularly outdoor fixtures, wires, and circuitry. Moisture infiltration, freezing temperatures, and the weight of snow or ice can damage exposed wiring, leading to short circuits or electrical failures.
Preventative Measures
- Weatherproofing: Inspect outdoor electrical components and ensure they are adequately weatherproofed. Seal any cracks or openings to prevent moisture intrusion.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks before and during winter to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities or damages.
- Trim Trees and Branches: Trim tree branches that could fall onto power lines during heavy snow or ice storms to reduce the risk of damage.
Faulty Heating Systems
Some winter electrical problems will be related to your heating systems, such as electric heaters or furnaces. These systems are essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures during winter. However, faulty or inefficient heating systems pose a risk of electrical problems, including short circuits or increased power consumption.
Preventive Measures
- Scheduled Inspections: Before winter, have your heating systems inspected by a professional to ensure they are in proper working condition.
- Clean and Maintain: Regularly clean and maintain heating systems to prevent dust buildup, which can cause inefficiencies or malfunctions.
- Upgrade If Necessary: Consider upgrading to more energy-efficient heating systems to reduce electrical strain and lower utility costs.
Protecting your commercial property from winter electrical problems requires proactive measures and professional oversight. By addressing potential issues before they escalate, you can mitigate risks, ensure safety, and maintain the smooth operation of your business throughout the colder months.
CHECK OUT COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES FROM CMI LIGHTING
With over 35 years in the industry, CMI has an array of equipment to handle the logistics of any in-house job. We also frequently provide solutions to property managers and upcoming developments. CMI Companies provides services in the Mid-Atlantic Region and proudly serves clients in Northern Virginia, Maryland, Richmond, Southern Virginia, Manassas, Prince William County, Fairfax County, Rockville, and Prince George’s County. Also, check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.