Living in Springfield or any part of Brisbane means we’re no strangers to the wild weather that comes with storm season. From thunderstorms to cyclones, our region experiences its fair share of electrical storms and heavy rain.
As expert electricians in Springfield and the surrounding areas, we understand the importance of preparing for these seasonal challenges. Without proper precautions, the electrical systems in our homes and businesses can be vulnerable to damage, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.
Be Prepared
Imagine this scenario: one particularly stormy night in Springfield Lakes, lightning strikes a customer’s property, causing a power surge that could damage their electronics and leave their home without power. Luckily, they have surge protectors installed, which will save their devices from destruction.
Additionally, they have a backup generator, ensuring they have power until the main supply is restored. This real-life experience can happen to anyone and highlights the importance of being prepared for storm season.
Safety First
Remember, safety should always come first. If you need clarification on the electrical safety of your home or business, feel free to contact us at AMAC Electrical. We are qualified electricians in Springfield and the surrounding area and can thoroughly inspect your setup for you.
Here are some essential tips to help protect your property and ensure your safety during storm season in Springfield:
Install Surge Protectors
Installing surge protectors is a wise investment to safeguard your sensitive electronics from the damaging effects of power surges during storms. These devices work by diverting excess voltage away from your devices, preventing them from being overloaded and damaged.
When choosing surge protectors, opt for those with a high joule rating, as they can absorb more energy and provide better protection. It is also important to install surge protectors at key locations, such as power outlets where your electronics are plugged in.
Remember that surge protectors have a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced periodically to ensure they remain effective. Regularly inspecting and replacing surge protectors can help maintain the safety of your electronics during storm season and beyond.
What is a Joule Rating?
Understanding joule ratings is critical to selecting the right surge protector for your home. A joule is a measure of energy released over a period of time, with an average lightning strike releasing about one billion joules of energy in a fraction of a second. The surge protector’s joule rating indicates how much power it can absorb before it fails.
How To Choose The Right Surge Protection
Generally, the higher the joule rating, the greater the surge protection provided. When deciding on the level of protection needed, we need to consider the type and value of the equipment that needs protection.
A unit with up to 1000 joules may be adequate for inexpensive devices like lamps or digital clocks. However, surge protectors with ratings of 1000 to 2000 joules are required for valuable electronics like computers or home theatres. For even greater protection, especially for devices storing sensitive or irreplaceable data, opting for surge protectors with 2000 joules or higher ratings is crucial.
Ensure Proper Grounding
Proper grounding is essential for ensuring the safety of your electrical system, especially during storm season. Grounding provides a path for electrical current to safely dissipate into the ground, reducing the risk of electric shocks and fires.
To ensure your electrical system is grounded correctly, it’s essential to have it inspected by a qualified electrician. They can check the integrity of your grounding system and make any necessary upgrades or repairs. This may involve installing additional grounding rods or upgrading existing wiring to meet safety standards.
Regular maintenance of your grounding system is crucial to ensure its effectiveness. By keeping your system properly grounded, you can reduce the risk of electrical hazards while protecting your home or business during storm season and beyond.
Inspect Outdoor Wiring
Inspecting outdoor wiring and fixtures is an important step in preparing for storm season. Outdoor wiring is exposed to the elements and can be damaged by heavy rain, strong winds, and falling debris during storms. Here’s what you can do to protect your outdoor electrical system:
- Check for Damage: Inspect outdoor wiring for any signs of damage, like frayed insulation, exposed wires, or corrosion. Replace any damaged wiring to prevent electrical hazards.
- Secure Loose Wires: Make sure all outdoor wires are properly secured and not dangling or hanging loosely. Use cable clips or straps to secure wires to walls or structures.
- Trim Branches: Trim tree branches that are close to or hanging over overhead lines. During storms, these branches are high risk of breaking and falling onto the lines, causing damage and power outages.
- Protect Outdoor Fixtures: Ensure that outdoor light fixtures, outlets, and switches are properly sealed and waterproof. Replace any damaged fixtures to prevent water infiltration.
Regularly inspecting and maintaining your outdoor electrical system can help prevent damage and ensure safety during storm season. If you’re unsure about the condition of your outdoor wiring, contact us at AMAC Electrical for a thorough inspection. We are qualified Springfield electricians servicing Springfield and the surrounding region.
Create an Emergency Kit
Creating an emergency kit is an important part of storm preparedness. Your kit should contain essential items that can help you and your family stay safe and comfortable during power outages and emergencies. Here’s what you should include:
- Flashlights: Ensure you have several flashlights with extra batteries. Avoid using naked flames like candles, as they pose a fire hazard.
- First Aid Kit: Include a basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, and any other necessary medications.
- Non-Perishable Food: Stock up on items like non-perishable food, such as canned goods, healthy snack bars, and dried fruits. Don’t forget a manual can opener.
- Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of your emergency contacts, including your electrician’s number, local emergency services, and utility providers. AMAC Electrical: 0431 747 855
- Battery-Powered Radio: Include a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive emergency alerts and updates.
- Blankets: Have extra blankets or sleeping bags on hand to stay warm if the power is out for an extended period.
- Personal Items: Include personal hygiene items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, and sanitary products.
- Cash: Keep some cash on hand, as ATMs may not be operational during power outages.
- Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents like identification, insurance policies, and any medical records in a waterproof container.
Store your emergency kit in an easily accessible location and ensure all your family members know where to find it. Review and update your kit regularly to ensure that all items are in good condition and supplies are not expired. Being prepared ahead of time can help you stay safe and comfortable during storm season.
Have a Backup Power Source
Having a backup power source, such as a generator, can provide peace of mind and essential power during storm-related outages. Here’s why you should consider installing one:
- Prevent Food Spoilage: A backup generator can keep your refrigerator and freezer running during power outages, preventing food spoilage and saving you money.
- Keep Medical Devices Running: If you or someone in your household relies on medical devices requiring electricity, a backup generator can ensure these devices continue to function correctly.
- Maintain Security Systems: A backup generator can keep your security systems, such as alarms and cameras, operational during power outages, helping to protect your home or business.
When choosing a backup generator, consider the size and capacity needed to power your essential devices and appliances. It is also essential to install the generator properly and follow safety guidelines to prevent any accidents.
Having a backup power source can provide you with the necessary power to stay safe and comfortable during storm season.
Springfield Lakes
Located in Ipswich, Brisbane, Springfield Lakes is a community we at AMAC Electrical proudly serve. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and natural beauty, Springfield Lakes offers residents a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning parks, lakes, and walking trails.
Our team of Springfield electricians understands the importance of electrical maintenance and keeping homes in this area safe and powered, especially during storm season. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we ensure that the electrical systems in Springfield Lakes are well-maintained and protected, providing residents with peace of mind all year round.
At The End Of The Day
Preparing for storm season is essential to protect your home or business from electrical issues. By following these tips, including installing surge protectors, ensuring proper grounding, inspecting outdoor wiring, creating an emergency kit, and considering a backup power source, you can mitigate the risks associated with storms and stay safe during outages.
Always prioritise safety and consult with us at AMAC Electrical for any electrical concerns. We are qualified Master electricians in Springfield and the surrounding region. Stay safe this storm season!
Areas we serve:
Darra · Ipswich · Forest Lake · Jindalee · Karalee · Ripley · Springfield · Wacol · Oxley
