Living on the Gold Coast means enjoying beautiful weather for much of the year, but it also means preparing for storm season. With heavy rain, strong winds, and even cyclones, ensuring your home is electrically safe should be a top priority. Here are some handy tips to protect your property and loved ones from electrical hazards during extreme weather events.
1. Check Your Switchboard and Circuit Protection
Your switchboard is the heart of your home’s electrical system, and a well-maintained switchboard can help prevent electrical faults during a storm. Ensure that your switchboard is up to date with safety switches and circuit breakers that can prevent power surges and electrical fires. If your switchboard is outdated or lacks safety switches, consider upgrading before storm season hits. Our professional Gold Coast electricians can inspect and upgrade your switchboard to meet current safety standards.
2. Surge Protection: Defending Against Power Surges
Power surges caused by lightning strikes or downed power lines can damage appliances and electrical systems. Installing surge protectors at your switchboard and using plug-in surge protectors for valuable electronics like TVs, computers, and fridges can help safeguard your home. If you’re unsure about your home’s surge protection, consulting a local electrician is a smart move.
3. Secure Outdoor Electrical Fixtures and Appliances
Storms bring strong winds that can damage external electrical installations such as outdoor lighting, air-conditioning units, and ceiling fans. To prevent hazards:
– Ensure all outdoor electrical outlets are weatherproof.
– Secure or store away any outdoor appliances when a storm is approaching.
– Check that your split system air-conditioning unit is properly mounted and protected from wind and debris.
4. Inspect Smoke Alarms and Backup Power Options
Storms and cyclones increase the risk of electrical fires and power outages. Make sure your smoke alarms are in working order and comply with Queensland’s smoke alarm regulations. Battery-operated or backup-powered smoke alarms are crucial in case of power failure.
For homes that experience frequent outages, installing a backup generator or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for essential appliances is a great way to stay prepared.
5. Prepare for Flooding and Water Damage
Water and electricity don’t mix. If your home is in a flood-prone area, take extra precautions:
– Elevate electrical appliances above potential flood levels.
– Waterproof any outdoor power points and wiring.
– Know how to safely turn off your home’s electricity at the switchboard in case of severe flooding.
If your home does experience flooding, do not turn the power back on until a qualified electrician has inspected your electrical system.
6. Lightning Safety and Electrical Storm Precautions
During a storm, avoid using electrical appliances that are directly plugged in, as lightning strikes can travel through power lines. Also:
– Unplug major appliances like TVs and computers to prevent damage.
– Avoid using wired phones or standing near metal fixtures that could conduct electricity.
7. Post-Storm Electrical Safety Checks
Once the storm has passed, check your home for any electrical damage before using power. Look for:
– Fallen power lines (stay clear and report them immediately to authorities).
– Water-damaged outlets or wiring.
– Flickering lights, burning smells, or unusual noises from appliances.
If you notice any electrical issues, contact a licensed Gold Coast electrician to assess and repair any damage before using your power supply.
Stay Safe with Professional Electrical Services
Storm and cyclone season can be unpredictable, but taking the right precautions can keep your home safe. Sparks Electrical & Air-Conditioning is your trusted Gold Coast electrician, offering expert services in switchboards, lighting, smoke alarms, air-conditioning, and general electrical maintenance. If you need an electrical safety inspection or upgrades before storm season, get in touch with us today.
Stay prepared, stay safe, and let’s keep your home powered and protected, no matter the weather!
