Living in Louisiana means facing the reality of hurricanes. Ranked as the state with the 3rd highest number of hurricanes in the US, Louisiana has experienced its fair share of severe storms, weathering 19 major hurricanes and 63 total.
These natural phenomena can wreak havoc on homes, particularly their electrical systems. The best way to keep your home protected? Being prepared. The Atlantic hurricane season is set to start June 1st, and it’s essential to make preparations now to ensure your electrical system is protected. Check out our hurricane preparedness guide below for the best course of action for weathering this season’s storms.
Inspect and Maintain Your Electrical System
Before hurricane season hits, it’s crucial to inspect and maintain your home’s electrical system. Hire a professional electrician to check for any signs of wear and tear, loose connections or outdated wiring. Addressing these issues beforehand can prevent electrical failures during a storm.
At Cajun Electric, we conduct comprehensive electrical examinations of both residential and commercial systems. Our thorough inspections are designed to verify that all wiring and components meet the necessary safety standards. Following our examination, clients receive a detailed report outlining our findings and any recommended actions to ensure optimal safety and performance. Contact us today to schedule your inspection!
Install Surge Protection
Hurricanes often bring powerful lightning strikes that can cause electrical surges. Install surge protectors throughout your home to safeguard your electronic devices and appliances. Consider investing in a whole-house surge protector for added protection against high-voltage surges.
Secure Outdoor Equipment
Outdoor electrical equipment such as air conditioning units, generators and electrical panels are vulnerable during hurricanes. Make sure they are securely anchored and elevated to prevent flooding. Trim any nearby trees or branches that could potentially fall and damage these components.
Turn Off Breakers to Avoid Power Surges
Turning off breakers before a hurricane or severe storm hits helps prevent power surges that can damage electrical appliances and equipment. By cutting off the main power supply to your home, you reduce the risk of electrical overload and potential fires caused by sudden increases in voltage. This precautionary measure also protects against electrocution hazards, especially in flooded areas where water can come into contact with live electrical components.
Waterproof Vulnerable Areas
Water intrusion is a common problem during hurricanes, and it can wreak havoc on your electrical system. Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior to prevent water from seeping into electrical outlets, switches and wiring. Install waterproof covers on outdoor outlets and switch boxes for additional protection.
Install GFCI Outlets
Consider installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in areas prone to water exposure, such as kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor outlets. These devices can help prevent electrical shocks in wet conditions.
Invest in a Home Standby Generator
Installing a home standby generator is the best way to ensure the safety of your home and everyone in it. Though they are a greater investment than alternative power sources, the invaluable benefits home standby generators offer in terms of enhanced safety, comfort and superior reliability during power outages make them an indispensable asset.
Engineered to endure years of harsh weather conditions, reputable standby generator manufacturers such as Generac Industrial Power prioritize equipment reliability, durability and minimized maintenance requirements. As a Generac Industrial installer, our Cajun Electric experts are ready to help you find the best home standby generator for your needs.
Already have a home standby generator? Check out these four crucial safety tips to ensure you’re using your generator as safely as possible!
Hurricane preparedness is essential for every Louisiana resident, and protecting your home’s electrical system should be a top priority. By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of electrical damage and ensure the safety of your family and property during hurricane season.