Australia is no stranger to wild weather. From powerful thunderstorms to damaging winds and heavy rainfall, storms can strike at any time, leaving homes and businesses vulnerable to electrical hazards. At Switchsafe Electrical, we prioritise your safety by helping you understand the risks and best practices for protecting your home’s electrical system during a storm.
Understanding the Electrical Risks During Storms
Storms bring a range of electrical dangers, from power surges and lightning strikes to flooding and fallen power lines. These can lead to electrical fires, equipment damage, or even life-threatening situations. Being prepared and knowing how to respond can make all the difference in keeping your household safe.
How to Protect Your Home’s Electrical System
1. Install Surge Protection
One of the most effective ways to safeguard your home’s electrical system is by installing surge protectors. These devices absorb excess voltage from power surges, preventing damage to appliances and electrical systems. A licensed electrician can install whole-house surge protection at your switchboard for comprehensive coverage.
2. Unplug Electrical Appliances
Before a storm hits, unplug non-essential appliances such as televisions, computers, and kitchen devices. This prevents them from being damaged if a power surge occurs. If you’re away from home, consider using power boards with surge protection as an extra layer of safety.
3. Check Your Home’s Wiring
Older or faulty wiring can be more susceptible to damage during storms. If your home hasn’t had an electrical inspection in recent years, it’s wise to have a professional check for potential issues. Frayed wires, outdated switchboards, and ungrounded outlets can all increase the risk of electrical fires.
4. Keep Outdoor Electrical Fixtures Secure
Outdoor power points, lighting, and electrical appliances should be weatherproof and properly secured. If heavy rain or flooding is expected, switch off outdoor power sources to prevent short circuits or electrical hazards.
5. Prepare for Power Outages
Storms often cause power outages, which can last from a few minutes to several days. Keep a battery-powered torch and radio on hand for updates. If you use a generator, ensure it is properly installed by an electrician and never operate it indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
What to Do During a Storm
- Stay indoors and avoid using wired electrical devices like landline phones or corded appliances.
- Avoid contact with water as it can conduct electricity. Don’t use electrical appliances if there is water damage or flooding inside your home.
- Turn off the main power if you suspect electrical damage. If safe to do so, switch off the power at the circuit breaker until a professional assesses the situation.
Case Study 1: Lightning Strike Damages Home Appliances
Last summer, a Sydney family experienced the devastating effects of an electrical storm when lightning struck a power pole near their home. The surge travelled through their electrical wiring, damaging multiple appliances, including their refrigerator, air conditioner, and entertainment system. Unfortunately, they had no surge protection installed, resulting in thousands of dollars in repairs and replacements.
Following the incident, Switchsafe Electrical installed a whole-home surge protection device, ensuring their household is better protected from future storms. This simple upgrade provided peace of mind and reinforced the importance of proactive electrical safety.
Case Study 2: Flooded Switchboard Causes Power Failure
In Brisbane, a homeowner noticed flickering lights and unusual buzzing noises from their switchboard after a major storm. Upon inspection, it was discovered that heavy rainfall had flooded the switchboard, causing water to seep into the electrical panel. The homeowner wisely turned off the main power and called Switchsafe Electrical.
Our team promptly arrived to assess the damage, replace the compromised switchboard, and install waterproof enclosures to prevent future incidents. Had the homeowner ignored the warning signs, it could have led to a severe electrical fire or electrocution risk.
After the Storm: Checking for Electrical Damage
Once the storm has passed, it’s crucial to check your home for any signs of electrical damage. Here’s what to do:
- Inspect power lines and electrical poles – If you notice fallen or damaged lines, stay away and report them to your local power company.
- Check your switchboard for signs of water damage – If you suspect moisture has entered, don’t turn the power back on. Call a professional for an inspection.
- Look for burnt outlets or flickering lights – These could indicate a surge-related issue or short circuit.
- Test appliances before use – If any appliance was left plugged in, check for unusual smells or malfunctions before using them.
Why Choose Switchsafe Electrical?
At Switchsafe Electrical, we specialise in ensuring your home’s electrical system is storm-ready. Our qualified electricians provide:
- Professional surge protector installation
- Electrical safety inspections
- Switchboard upgrades and waterproofing
- Emergency repairs after storm damage
Storms are unpredictable, but your electrical safety doesn’t have to be. By taking proactive measures and knowing when to call in the experts, you can protect your home and loved ones from dangerous electrical hazards. If you need an electrical safety assessment or storm protection solutions, contact Switchsafe Electrical today!