Is Your Electrical System Ready for Summer Heat?

Before You Plug In Another Air Conditioner, Make Sure Your Home Is Ready.

When temperatures and humidity rise many homeowners will be looking for ways to keep their homes cooler. Whether it’s replacing an older air conditioning unit, adding a window AC, bringing out a portable air conditioner, or simply running your central air more often, all of that extra cooling places additional demand on your home’s electrical system.

For many homes, especially older homes throughout Beverly, Mount Greenwood, Morgan Park, and surrounding neighborhoods, that increased electrical load can expose issues that may have gone unnoticed during the cooler months.

Summer Heat Means More Than Higher Electric Bills

Air conditioners are among the largest electrical loads in most homes. When you add another cooling appliance to the mix, your electrical system may suddenly be powering:

·      Central air conditioning

·      Window air conditioning units

·      Portable air conditioners

·      Ceiling and box fans

·      Dehumidifiers

·      Garage refrigerators or freezers

·      Pool or hot tub equipment

·      Outdoor lighting and entertainment

If your electrical system is already operating near capacity, adding another large appliance could be enough to push it beyond its comfort zone.

Planning to Add More Cooling? Here Are a Few Things to Consider

Before installing a new window or portable air conditioner, ask yourself:

·      Is this outlet already powering other large appliances?

·      Am I relying on an extension cord? (Portable air conditioners and window units should be plugged directly into a properly rated outlet.)

·      Does this room have enough electrical capacity for another high-demand appliance?

·      Has my home’s electrical panel ever been upgraded?

These simple questions can help prevent overloaded circuits and unnecessary stress on your electrical system.

Warning Signs Your Electrical System Is Feeling the Heat

As electrical demand increases, watch for these common warning signs:

Lights Flicker or Dim

If your lights dim every time the air conditioner starts, your electrical system may be working harder than it should.

Breakers Keep Tripping

Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home. Frequent trips are often a sign that your electrical system is overloaded or that additional evaluation is needed.

Warm Outlets or Electrical Panel

Outlets, switches, or your electrical panel should never feel unusually warm. If they do, discontinue use and have them inspected by a licensed electrician.

Extension Cords Becoming Permanent Solutions

Extension cords should never become a long-term answer for powering high-demand appliances like air conditioners. If you’re running out of outlets, it may be time to install additional dedicated circuits.

Older Homes May Need a Little Extra Attention

Many homes were built decades before today’s electrical demands.

If you’ve recently added:

·      A larger central air conditioning system

·      Window or portable air conditioners

·      An EV charger

·      A finished basement

·      A remodeled kitchen

·      Additional home office equipment

…your home’s electrical system may be carrying significantly more load than it was originally designed to handle.

A professional evaluation can determine whether your existing panel and circuits are keeping up safely.

Stay Comfortable—and Stay Safe

Summer should be about enjoying your home, not worrying about electrical problems during the hottest time of the year.

For more than 20 years, SAFE Electrical Service has helped homeowners throughout Beverly, Mount Greenwood, Morgan Park, and the surrounding communities ensure their homes are ready for every season.

If you’re planning to add additional cooling equipment—or you’ve noticed flickering lights, tripped breakers, or other signs of electrical strain—contact SAFE. We’ll make sure your home’s electrical system is ready to handle whatever summer brings.

SAFE Electrical — Your Neighborhood Electrician

Schedule an on-site, no-cost estimate today.

708-361-1555

Serving Beverly, Mount Greenwood, Morgan Park, and the South and Southwest Suburbs of Chicago.

SAFE Electrical. It’s Not Just Our Name. It’s Our Promise.