With the weather turning, you may see your lights flicker from time to time. It is natural to ask whether the electrical system in your home can stand up to what the coming weeks of cold and short days will bring. If you are at a loss as to how to prepare for winter in Missoula, read on.

There is a reason fall is such a busy season for home electrical work. When it gets colder and the sun goes down earlier, one puts more strain on space heaters, indoor lighting and heating systems. The added load has a way of bringing to light issues that were not apparent over the summer. We of Hometown Electric make it our business to ensure Missoula homeowners have electrical systems that are in good working order and safe. Should you have any concerns, (406)-508-1970 is our number.

Since 2020 we have been of service to the Missoula community. We are licensed and insured and the 80 plus Google reviews we have garnered with a 5.0 star rating are something we take pride in. For this post we have put together some fall safety advice that is useful to have.

Why give your system extra thought in the fall?

The summer months are no trouble for an electrical system; there is ample daylight, the furnace is off and you are outside more. Then comes fall and all of that is put to the test. Put on the heat, switch on the lights before their usual hour and your system is put to work.

A measure of awareness and a couple of checks will go a long way to stave off most problems in the autumn. Regrettably, too many do nothing until a failure occurs. Some seasonal maintenance is a good habit to have, for the sake of your family and your wallet.

Heating and electrical load: an inspection is in order

Before you fire up the furnace and the like, consider the draw on your home’s electricity. An overloaded circuit or fire hazard is often the result of a space heater.

Things to be on the lookout for when the temperature falls:

• Any outlet or switch plate that is warm
• Circuit breakers prone to tripping
• Space heaters on an extension cord or power strip
• Lights that dim or flicker with an appliance running
• Outlets or the panel giving off a burning odour
• Scorch marks or discoloration on outlets

Do not put off dealing with these; they could be indicative of something serious requiring a professional. One call to us at (406)-508-1970 and we will have a look.

Outdoor and seasonal lighting

Rain and wind are part and parcel of a Missoula fall, along with the early dark. Your outdoor fixtures are going to be working hard and taking on moisture. Make an inspection of them, the walkway lights and exterior outlets.

You will be putting up holiday lights in the weeks to come so now is as good a time as any to get ready. See that your outdoor outlets are in shape before you plug in the displays.

Some reminders for the season:

• Get rid of any fixture that is cracked
• See to it that outdoor outlets are weather resistant and covered
• Do not put too many strands of lights on one circuit
• Check for exposed wires or fraying on the cords
• Stand water and electrical connections should not mix

Safety devices need testing

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are of greater consequence once the heating season is upon you. Fall is a sensible time to check them and put in new batteries. They are small but provide your family with considerable protection.

You might as well examine your GFCI outlets while you are about it, the kind with a reset button in the bathroom or kitchen. Hit the test to verify they are in order. A unit that will not reset is due for replacement.

The holidays are not far off

They mean more guests, more cooking and more light. Older homes in Missoula sometimes have wiring or panels not suited to the demands of today. If you are in any doubt as to whether your panel can cope, let a professional make an assessment before the winter is fully here.

Hometown Electric is at your service

An electrical system that is in order in the fall will see you and your home through the coldest part of the year. We are open 8 to 5 Monday to Friday and stand behind our work with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, free of charge estimates included.

For a professional opinion on your system or if you have any questions, call us at (406)-508-1970. Let us put your Missoula home in shape for what is to come.