Is Your Home Summer-Ready? Electrical Safety Tips for Heatwaves and Outdoor Living
Summer in Vancouver is a season to enjoy—sunshine, backyard BBQs, and warm evenings on the patio. But with the joys of summer also come unique electrical challenges. From increased power usage during heatwaves to the safe use of outdoor lighting and appliances, now’s the perfect time to make sure your home’s electrical system is ready.
At Wicks Electric, we care about your comfort and safety. So before you plug in the string lights and fire up the fan, here are a few smart electrical safety tips to keep your summer stress-free and hazard-free.
1. Inspect and Weatherproof Your Outdoor Outlets
Outdoor outlets are exposed to the elements year-round, and summer activities often push them into heavy use. Whether you’re plugging in patio lights, a sound system, or an electric grill:
✅ Make sure all outdoor outlets are GFCI-protected (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)
✅ Use weatherproof covers that protect even when cords are plugged in
✅ Never use damaged cords or overloaded power strips outdoors
Pro tip: If your outdoor outlets spark, hum, or feel loose—call us. It’s a sign of a potential hazard.
2. Avoid Overloading Circuits During Heatwaves
When the temperature rises, so does your energy usage. Air conditioners, fans, and dehumidifiers can overload older electrical panels or outdated circuits.
Here’s how to avoid tripping breakers or overheating:
- Spread out usage across multiple outlets
- Don’t plug multiple high-draw appliances into the same circuit
- Upgrade your panel if your system is older and struggling to keep up
If your lights flicker when appliances turn on or breakers trip often, it’s time to let a pro take a look.
3. Keep Electrical Gear Away from Water
Pools, splash pads, and even garden sprinklers bring fun to summer—but they also raise electrical risks. To stay safe:
- Keep extension cords and equipment far from water
- Only use outdoor-rated, waterproof lighting and decor
- Never operate electrical devices barefoot or while wet
If you’re planning new lighting or a water feature, ask us about safe installation and proper grounding.
4. Plan for Patio Perfection—with Safe Power
Thinking of string lights, outdoor speakers, or a hot tub? Make sure your electrical setup can handle it safely. A quick consultation or small upgrade can go a long way.
We often help clients with:
- Installing dedicated circuits for outdoor kitchens and hot tubs
- Running safe, code-compliant underground wiring for backyard lighting
- Adding dimmers, timers, and smart switches for convenience
5. Leave the Electrical Work to the Pros
DIY is tempting in the summer—but it’s not worth the risk when it comes to wiring. Even small jobs like moving an outlet or swapping a light fixture outdoors can carry major risks if not done properly.
Let our licensed electricians handle it so you can relax and enjoy your space worry-free.
Ready to Book a Summer Electrical Safety Check?
Our team at Wicks Electric is here to help you stay cool, comfortable, and safe all season long. Whether you need a quick inspection, an outlet upgrade, or a full backyard lighting plan—we’ve got your summer covered.
📞 Call us today or book online to schedule your summer-ready electrical checkup.
