When the cold weather hits the Lehigh Valley in winter, it’s common for electrical systems to face some extra strain. At GC Electric, we often see homeowners dealing with winter-related electrical problems that can cause inconvenience or even safety hazards. Knowing the common electrical issues and how to prevent them can save you time, money, and stress this season.
Here are the top five electrical issues that show up in cold weather—and how you can protect your home and family.
1. Flickering or Dimming Lights
Cold snaps often cause flickering or dimming lights, which can be a sign of overloaded circuits or loose wiring. When the temperature drops, electrical resistance in wiring changes slightly, sometimes triggering this issue. Flickering lights can also mean there’s a loose connection somewhere—a fire hazard you don’t want to ignore.
Prevention Tip: Schedule a professional electrical inspection to check your wiring and circuit breakers. Tightening connections and upgrading outdated components can help prevent flickering and keep your home safe.
2. Tripped Circuit Breakers
Winter means increased use of electric heaters, holiday lights, and other electrical devices. This extra load can cause circuit breakers to trip more frequently, cutting power to parts of your home unexpectedly.
Prevention Tip: Avoid plugging multiple high-energy devices into one outlet or power strip. If your breakers trip often, it may be time for a panel upgrade to handle your home’s electrical demand.
3. Space Heater Hazards
Space heaters are a popular winter accessory, but they can be a source of electrical problems. Overloaded circuits, improper placement, or faulty heaters can cause short circuits or even electrical fires.
Prevention Tip: Use space heaters with built-in safety features, plug them directly into wall outlets (not extension cords), and never leave them unattended. For added safety, consider installing dedicated circuits for heavy-use devices.
4. Frozen or Damaged Outdoor Wiring
In colder months, outdoor wiring such as that for lighting, security systems, or irrigation controls can freeze or get damaged by ice and snow. This can lead to short circuits or complete power loss for outdoor features.
Prevention Tip: Have a professional inspect and weatherproof your outdoor wiring before winter arrives. Regular maintenance and protective coverings can prevent damage and extend the lifespan of your outdoor electrical systems.
5. GFCI Outlet Issues
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to protect against electric shocks, especially in damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Cold weather can cause these outlets to trip unexpectedly or stop working due to moisture or wiring problems.
Prevention Tip: Test your GFCI outlets monthly to ensure they function properly. If they frequently trip or don’t reset, call an electrician to diagnose and repair the issue.
Why Winter Electrical Safety Matters
Ignoring these common winter electrical issues can lead to bigger problems, including costly repairs, power outages, or serious safety risks like electrical fires. At GC Electric, our licensed electricians are experts in diagnosing and fixing winter-specific electrical problems to keep your home running smoothly and safely.
Need a Winter Electrical Inspection or Repair in the Lehigh Valley?
If you’re experiencing flickering lights, frequent breaker trips, or just want to be proactive, don’t wait until a problem becomes an emergency. Schedule a professional inspection with GC Electric today to ensure your home’s electrical system is winter-ready.
Contact GC Electric now to book an appointment or learn more about our full range of residential electrical services.
Stay safe and warm this winter with GC Electric, your trusted Lehigh Valley electrical contractor!
