Raleigh’s weather is all over the place, from hot, humid summers to sudden storms that roll in without warning, and your home’s electrical system feels the impact more than you might realize. At CMC Electric, we’ve seen firsthand how Raleigh’s climate can take a toll on electrical systems, and we’re here to help you stay ahead of the problem before it turns into a costly repair.
How Humidity Can Damage Your Electrical System
One of the most significant components of your electrical system affected by humidity is your breaker box. If it’s in a basement, garage, or any other place that doesn’t get much airflow, condensation can form on the metal components inside. That extra moisture can lead to rust, weakening the connections that keep your electrical system working safely. If your breakers start tripping more often than usual or if your panel feels warmer than it should, excess moisture could be to blame.
Even wiring hidden inside your walls isn’t completely safe. Over time, humidity can weaken the protective coating around wires, making them more brittle and prone to cracking. This can make short circuits more likely or even cause sparks behind your walls—something you don’t want. If you’ve noticed a musty smell near your outlets or seen discoloration around them, it’s worth having a professional take a look to determine what is happening behind your walls.
Summer Storms and Power Surges
Lightning strikes can cause sudden power surges, sending an intense burst of electricity through your wiring. If your home isn’t protected, that surge can fry appliances, damage your HVAC system, or even cause small electrical fires.
However, surges don’t just come from direct lightning strikes. Even if lightning hits a power line miles away, the energy can travel through the grid and reach your home. If your lights flicker or electronics randomly shut off during a storm, chances are your home is experiencing a power surge. Over time, they can wear down sensitive components inside your devices and even damage the electronics in your appliances. This damage can shorten their lifespan and result in the need for premature replacements.
One of the best ways to protect your home is with whole-house surge protection. If you live in an area that sees frequent storms, investing in surge protection could save you from replacing expensive electronics down the road.
Impact of Freezing Temperatures on Wiring
Winter might not seem like the time to worry about your electrical system, but cold weather can be just as tough on your home as summer storms. When temperatures drop, the materials inside your wiring contract. Over time, repeated expansion and contraction can weaken connections, causing loose wires that may lead to flickering lights or outlets that don’t work correctly.
Outdoor electrical components take an even bigger hit. If you have exposed wiring in your garage, porch, or exterior outlets, extreme cold can make them more brittle and prone to cracking. Any small gap in the insulation can let moisture seep in, which could lead to short circuits or electrical shocks.
Another common issue in winter is overloaded circuits. When temperatures drop, people tend to use more space heaters, electric blankets, and other high-power devices. If your home’s wiring isn’t up to the task, breakers can start tripping more often. This indicates your electrical system may be unable to handle your household’s demand. Our electricians can assess your system and recommend solutions, such as upgrading your panel, to resolve the problem.
Tree Limbs and Power Lines
If a tree near your home has branches close to power lines, it’s only a matter of time before it becomes a problem. Falling branches don’t just cause power outages. They can also yank electrical wires loose from your home, which can be dangerous if the exposed wiring is still live. If you ever notice a power line down in your yard, never try to handle it yourself—always call your utility company or an electrician to assess the situation.
Regular trimming is a good idea if you have trees near your house. Keeping branches away from power lines can help prevent damage during storms. Homeowners should maintain at least a 10-foot clearance between tree branches and power lines on their property to reduce the risk of outages and electrical hazards.
Schedule a Professional Inspection Today
At CMC Electric, we have been serving the residents of Clayton, NC and the surrounding areas since 2005. We are experienced electricians who install, maintain, and repair residential electrical systems. Additionally, we can help with all your surge protection and generator needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable team members.
