Electrical Safety Tips for February
February is one of the toughest months on your home’s electrical system. Cold temperatures, shorter days, and more time spent indoors all lead to increased electricity use. From space heaters and electric blankets to lights, TVs, and home offices running nonstop, your system is working overtime.
At Coffing Electric, we often see electrical issues spike during the winter months. The good news? Many of these problems are preventable. Here’s how to make sure your home is ready to handle winter power demand safely and reliably.
Why Winter Puts Extra Stress on Your Electrical System
When temperatures drop, your electrical usage goes up. Portable heaters, electric fireplaces, heated floors, and even kitchen appliances are used more frequently. Older homes or outdated electrical panels may struggle to keep up, increasing the risk of tripped breakers, flickering lights, or even electrical fires.
Winter weather can also expose hidden issues such as worn wiring, loose connections, or overloaded circuits that may not be noticeable during milder seasons.
Watch for Warning Signs of Electrical Overload
If your home isn’t equipped to handle winter power demand, it will usually show signs. Pay attention to:
Circuit breakers that trip frequently
Lights that flicker or dim when appliances turn on
Warm outlets or switches
Buzzing sounds near outlets or the electrical panel
Burning smells or discoloration around outlets
These warning signs should never be ignored, especially during high-demand months like February.
Use Space Heaters Safely
Space heaters are one of the biggest causes of winter electrical problems. To use them safely:
Plug heaters directly into a wall outlet (never an extension cord)
Keep heaters on dedicated circuits whenever possible
Keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable
Turn them off when leaving the room or going to sleep
If you rely heavily on space heaters, it may be a sign your home’s heating or electrical system needs an upgrade.
Avoid Overloading Extension Cords and Power Strips
During winter, many homeowners rely on extension cords for heaters, lights, and electronics. Overloading cords or power strips can lead to overheating and fire hazards.
Extension cords should only be used temporarily and never as a permanent solution. If you find yourself constantly needing more outlets, it’s time to consider having additional outlets installed by a licensed electrician.
Is Your Electrical Panel Keeping Up?
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system. Older panels or undersized services may not be able to handle modern winter energy demands.
Signs your panel may need attention include:
Breakers that trip regularly
A panel that’s more than 25–30 years old
Limited space for additional circuits
Buzzing or heat coming from the panel
Upgrading your panel can improve safety, reliability, and peace of mind during the coldest months of the year.
Schedule an Electrical Inspection for Peace of Mind
February is a smart time to schedule an electrical inspection. A professional electrician can identify potential hazards, ensure your system is handling the load safely, and recommend upgrades before small issues become major problems.
At Coffing Electric, we’re committed to keeping your home safe and powered all year long. If you’re experiencing electrical issues or want to be proactive this winter, our team is here to help.
Contact Coffing Electric today to schedule an inspection or service and make sure your home is ready for winter power demand.