Summer Storms
Summer Storms: Can Your House Handle Them?
As per the Bureau of Meteorology, this summer season, drought conditions are likely to continue across NSW/ACT, with plenty of summer storms to follow. These storms can bring about significant electrical surges that may disrupt your daily life and damage your appliances.
How Well Will Could You Cope Without?
Internet
Lights
Power
Air conditioning
Computer
Electricity is essential for a home to function well, especially in this era of advanced technology. However, constant electricity supply can be disrupted, causing serious inconvenience and damage. The good news is that these issues can be prevented with some simple and effective equipment, like surge diverters.
Tips to Safeguard Your Home from Summer Storms
1. Install a Surge Diverter at Your Meter Board
Lightning can cause electrical power surges. Installing a surge diverter protects all electrical appliances in your house, including your television, oven, and other essential devices.
2. Watch Out for Live Wires
If you see damage to your wiring, don’t go outside to check it. Call an electrician, especially during a storm. Fallen power lines can be concealed and deadly. Be aware of your home’s electrical structure to prevent sudden electrical shocks. A current over 10 milliamps (0.01 amp) can produce severe shock, and currents between 100 and 200 mA (0.1 to 0.2 amp) are lethal.
3. Ensure Safety Switches are Installed on All Electrical Circuits
Have your RCDs or safety fuses checked and replaced by a licensed electrician if needed. Be proactive about electrical safety.
4. Prepare a Household Disaster and Evacuation Plan
Prevention is always better than cure. Have a plan in place to ensure your family’s safety.
5. Check the Condition of Your Roof and Guttering
Ensure your house is sealed and ready before the storm hits. Clean out the gutters and ensure the downpipes are clear and flowing.
6. Know Where to Turn Off the Main Supply
Identify where to turn off the main supply for water, power, and gas in an emergency.
7. Consider Purchasing a Portable Generator
If your area is susceptible to storm activity, having a portable generator can be invaluable, especially if you have a family. Significant power line damage could take days to repair. A generator can keep your house powered and help out friends in your area.
8. Inspect Your Home After the Storm
After a storm, have a professional tradesperson inspect your property for electrical or plumbing damage.
Need Assistance?
Call us at 13 10 91, and we will send our best local electrician to assist you. We serve areas in Canberra, Newcastle, Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Lake Macquarie, and Port Stephens. Stay safe and prepared this summer!
THE DOCTOR GETS IT DONE