Best Electrical Services to Tackle in Fall 2024

As fall approaches in Peterborough, Ontario, homeowners and businesses should begin prepping their electrical systems for the colder months. Hiring a professional "electrician near me" to handle essential electrical tasks can save you money, reduce risks, and increase the efficiency of your home. Fall is an ideal season for electrical upgrades and maintenance, and there are several key services that a local Peterborough electrical company can tackle to ensure your home or business is ready for winter.

1. Electrical Panel Upgrade

Your electrical panel is the core of your home’s electrical system. In Peterborough, many older homes have outdated panels that can’t meet modern energy demands. This was the case for one local family in Peterborough’s East City. After experiencing frequent power outages, they hired a licensed Peterborough electrical contractor, who discovered their outdated panel couldn’t handle the load from their newer appliances, such as a washer/dryer and an air conditioning unit.

The family upgraded to a 200-amp panel just in time for the fall and winter months, preventing potential electrical fires and eliminating their frequent outages. This story serves as a cautionary tale of the importance of electrical panel upgrades, especially in older homes. Fall is a great time to take care of this, ensuring your home can handle the winter increase in electrical usage.

2. Outdoor and Landscape Lighting Installation

With fall comes shorter days and longer nights, making outdoor and landscape lighting essential for safety and aesthetics. Proper lighting helps prevent accidents and enhances curb appeal. Peterborough’s natural beauty is best highlighted with well-placed, energy-efficient lighting. Imagine having your outdoor space lit for evening gatherings or to simply light pathways and driveways.

An electrician can install outdoor LED lights that are durable enough to withstand Peterborough’s weather conditions, especially the cold and snow in winter. These installations also improve security by deterring potential intruders, keeping your home safe during the darker months.

3. Electrical Heating Systems Check and Maintenance

As temperatures drop, your electric heating system becomes critical for comfort. In Peterborough, winters are cold, with average lows dipping below -10°C. Ensuring your electrical heating systems are in working condition before winter is essential. An experienced electrician can inspect your system, check the wiring, and perform any necessary maintenance or repairs.

A Peterborough business owner learned this the hard way. Their electric baseboard heating failed during a cold snap in November. After calling Electricians Peterborough, they discovered faulty wiring was the cause. A simple electrical inspection earlier in the fall could have prevented the costly repairs and the business downtime.

4. GFCI Outlet Installation

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are a vital safety feature, especially in areas with moisture, like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. Many older homes in Peterborough still lack these essential outlets, putting residents at risk of electrical shock. Fall is an excellent time to have a Peterborough electrical contractor install GFCI outlets in key areas of your home to ensure it meets current safety standards.

5. Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installation

With electric vehicle (EV) ownership on the rise in Peterborough, more homeowners are looking to install convenient EV charging stations at home. If you’ve recently purchased an EV, having a home charging station is a must, and a licensed electrician near me can help install it. A local Peterborough electrical contractor can assess your home’s system and safely install a Level 2 charger to meet your needs.

6. Whole-House Surge Protection

Power surges, often caused by storms, can damage your appliances and electronics. With Peterborough’s fall storms, whole-house surge protection is a smart investment. This type of protection prevents power spikes from damaging your home’s electrical system. A qualified electrician near Peterborough, ON can install a whole-house surge protector to keep your home safe.

Conclusion

Fall 2024 is the ideal time to invest in essential electrical services. From electrical panel upgrades to outdoor lighting installation and heating system checks, a licensed Peterborough electrical contractor can help prepare your home for winter. Don’t wait for electrical issues to arise—hire a trusted electrician this fall to handle these important tasks and ensure your home is safe, efficient, and comfortable for the colder months ahead.