How to Protect Your Home from Electrical Hazards This Summer

Electricity is one of the most essential systems in your home, but when something goes wrong, it can become one of the most dangerous. Whether you’re in Portland, Troutdale, Gresham, or Lake Oswego, knowing the basics of electrical safety isn't just helpful—it’s critical for protecting your family, home, and peace of mind.

As temperatures rise and homeowners start plugging in more devices—fans, air conditioners, outdoor lighting—your electrical system can quickly be pushed to its limits. If your wiring, outlets, or circuit panels are outdated or damaged, you could be at risk for shocks, system failure, or even fire.

Worried about your electrical system? Don’t wait—reach out to our team now or call (971) 253-7883 to schedule a safety inspection today.

Why Electrical Safety Matters More in Warmer Months

Aside from being hard on your air conditioning system, summer puts added strain on your home’s electrical infrastructure. With kids home from school, more electronics running throughout the day, and outdoor appliances like pool pumps and string lights in use, it's not uncommon to see higher electrical loads in residential homes across the Portland area.

While modern homes are generally equipped to handle this demand, older properties or systems that haven’t been maintained may begin to show signs of stress. The results can range from inconvenient to dangerous. That’s why taking the time to understand common warning signs and safety tips is so important this time of year.

Top Signs You Might Have an Electrical Problem

Electrical issues often start small but can escalate quickly if ignored. Fortunately, your home will usually send you warning signs. Here are some of the most common indicators that it’s time to call in a licensed electrician:

• Frequent circuit breaker trips – If your breakers constantly trip, your system may be overloaded or experiencing a short.
• Flickering or dimming lights – This could indicate poor wiring connections or an overloaded circuit.
• Buzzing noises near outlets or switches – Any humming or buzzing from electrical components usually points to faulty wiring.
• Burning odors or discoloration – Scorch marks or a faint burnt smell near an outlet should never be ignored.
• Warm or sparking outlets – Heat buildup or visible sparks are major red flags and should be addressed immediately.

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s important to stop using the affected area and call a professional immediately. Waiting too long can turn a simple fix into a serious safety hazard.

6 Electrical Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

The best way to stay ahead of electrical problems is to follow a few proactive safety practices. These tips apply to all homes, regardless of age, and can help reduce risk, especially during high-usage months:

1. Avoid overloading outlets
   Plugging too many high-powered appliances into a single outlet can cause overheating and even fire. Stick to one major appliance per outlet, and use surge protectors where needed.

2. Unplug appliances when not in use
   Devices like toasters, coffee makers, and hair dryers can still draw power when plugged in. Unplugging them reduces your risk of shock and helps conserve energy.

3. Keep cords away from traffic areas
   Extension cords or power strips should never be run under rugs or across walkways. Doing so creates a tripping hazard, can damage the cord, and increases the risk of fire.

4. Install GFCI outlets in wet areas
   Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to cut off power when moisture is detected. They're essential in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor spaces.

5. Inspect cords regularly for damage
   Check your appliance cords and extension cables often for frays or exposed wires. Damaged cords should be replaced immediately—they should never be taped or patched.

6. Call an electrician for any upgrades or repairs
   DIY work may save money upfront, but can lead to unsafe results. Licensed professionals ensure your system is safe and up to code.

These simple tips are low-effort but high-impact. Taking them seriously can help avoid many of the electrical problems homeowners face when temperatures (and power demands) rise.

Is Your Home's Electrical System Outdated? Here’s How to Tell

Many homes in Portland and its neighboring communities were built before modern electrical codes came into place. Even if everything appears to be working fine, your system may be struggling to keep up with today’s energy demands.

Some common indicators of an outdated electrical system include:

• Two-prong (ungrounded) outlets
• No dedicated circuit for large appliances (like HVAC systems or washers)
• Aluminum wiring, which poses higher fire risk
• Frequent breaker issues or flickering lights
• Lack of AFCI or GFCI protection in critical areas

If your home was built before the 1990s and hasn’t had an electrical upgrade since, it's a good idea to schedule a professional evaluation. Wolcott offers comprehensive residential electrical services to ensure your home is as safe and efficient as possible.

When to Call an Electrician Right Away

Some electrical issues can wait a day or two, but others need attention immediately. If you experience any of the following, don’t delay:

• A burning smell with no clear source
• Getting shocked when touching outlets or appliances
• Buzzing or humming from your breaker box
• Sudden loss of power not caused by a utility outage
• Smoke coming from an outlet or panel

These issues can point to serious problems such as electrical arcing, wiring faults, or potential fires. The safest choice is always to turn off power to the area and call a professional right away.

We’re Here to Help Keep Your Home Safe

You don’t have to be an expert to stay safe—you just need a reliable partner who is. At Wolcott, we help homeowners in Portland, Gresham, Troutdale, Lake Oswego, and beyond stay ahead of electrical risks with fast, friendly service and expert advice you can trust.

If something doesn’t feel right with your system—or if you want the peace of mind of a professional inspection—contact our team today through our online contact form or call us directly at (971) 253-7883. Let’s keep your home safe, efficient, and fully powered all season long.