Electrical Safety for Fall: What Every Homeowner Should Check Before Winter
As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, many homeowners start thinking about fall clean-up and winter prep. But one area that’s often overlooked is your home’s electrical system.
At Corrigan Electric, we want to make sure your home is not only warm and well-lit but also safe as you head into the colder months. Here’s a fall safety checklist every homeowner should consider before winter hits.
Test and Inspect GFCI Outlets
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are critical for preventing electrical shock, especially in areas with moisture like kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor spaces. Press the "Test" and "Reset" buttons to ensure they’re functioning. If they don’t reset or trip too easily, call a licensed electrician.
Check for Outlet Wear and Tear
Loose outlets, cracked faceplates, or plugs that fall out easily can signal worn or damaged components. These are more than a nuisance—they can lead to arc faults and fire risks. Replacing or securing them is a quick fix that can improve both safety and convenience.
Examine Your Breaker Panel
Fall is the perfect time to have your panel checked, especially if your home is older or has had new appliances added recently. Look for signs like rust, buzzing sounds, or a panel that’s warm to the touch. Corrigan Electric offers licensed inspections that ensure your panel is ready for winter load demands.
Inspect Outdoor Wiring and Fixtures
Cold weather, moisture, and animals can damage exterior wiring. Walk around your home and check outdoor outlets, flood lights, or detached structures like sheds for frayed wires or damaged casings. We can help you weatherproof or replace compromised fixtures before winter sets in.
Be Smart About Space Heaters
If you use space heaters in the fall or winter, plug them directly into a wall outlet—never a power strip. Make sure the outlet can handle the heater’s wattage. If breakers trip while using one, that’s a sign your circuit may need to be evaluated.
Replace or Install Smoke and CO Detectors
Shorter days mean more indoor time and more appliance use. That increases the need for functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries, test each unit, and consider upgrading to interconnected models for added safety.
Schedule an Electrical Safety Inspection
A licensed electrician can spot risks before they become emergencies. Corrigan Electric offers fall safety checks that identify overloaded circuits, outdated panels, or hidden wiring damage—and provide solutions that meet modern code.
Fall Safety Starts with Corrigan
Since 1995, we’ve helped homeowners prepare for Kentucky and Southern Indiana winters the right way, with licensed electricians, clear communication, and safety-first service.
Don’t wait for cold weather to cause problems. Let us help you get ahead of the season.
Schedule your fall inspection at CorriganElectric.com
You know us at Corrigan, give us a call! Your Electrician.