It’s hard to beat winter in North Queensland! Even in North Queensland’s milder winter climate, it’s important not to overlook electrical maintenance for your home. Neglecting electrical housekeeping during the cooler months can lead to safety hazards and unnecessary energy consumption. Here are five electrical housekeeping tips tailored specifically for a North Queensland winter.
1. Upgrade (or invest in) your outdoor lighting & outlets:
- Although winter is the nicest time of the year to enjoy the outdoors in North Queensland, the days are shorter and it starts to get dark earlier. Make sure your outdoor lights, fittings and extension cords are all operating to keep you, your family and your house safe this winter. At a minimum:
- – inspect your lights & fittings for damage,
- – replace burnt out light bulbs,
- – clear any debris or fallen leaves from outdoor electrical components to maintain their functionality,
- – check any extension leads are designed for outdoor use (look for the letter ‘W’ on the cord).
You might consider upgrading your existing fittings for a more modern aesthetic, or upgrade your security lighting (we can recommend some great SMART floodlights and other options!)
2. Don't forget your air-conditioning system:
Now that your air con is not being heavily used, it’s the best time to have it cleaned and maintained! Rolly’s Electrical offers professional air-con cleaning services, specifically tailored to the needs of North Queensland homes during the winter months. Professional maintenance ensures its optimal performance, improves indoor air quality, extends its lifespan, and maximises energy efficiency. By having your air conditioner cleaned and maintained during winter, it will be ready to work at its best by the time the warmer days arrive!
3. Clean & maintain your solar panels:
Much like cleaning & maintaining your air conditioner, cleaning & maintaining your solar panels in winter is a great idea! We are lucky to have beautiful sunny winter days, so why not make the most of our North Queensland winter sunshine by harnessing its energy. We recommend cleaning & maintaining your solar panels once per year so they work most effectively, so winter is a great time to start this annual habit. Be wary, there are ‘solar cleaning’ operators out there that do not clean according to the panel manufacturer’s specifications! As licensed solar technicians, not only do we clean according to the specifications, we also perform a system check to make sure everything is running smoothly.
4. Inspect and insulate electrical outlets & switches:
Although winters in North Queensland are relatively mild, there may still be occasional chilly days. Ensure that your home is properly insulated by inspecting electrical outlets and switches for gaps or cracks. Install foam gaskets or weatherstripping to seal them effectively. This will not only prevent any cold drafts but also improve your home’s overall energy efficiency to save you money on your electricity bill.
5. Schedule an electrical inspection:
Though winters in North Queensland are not severe, temperature fluctuations can still impact your home’s electrical system. To prevent any electrical failures or hazards, consider scheduling a comprehensive inspection with Rolly’s Electrical. An expert electrician will thoroughly assess your system, identify potential issues, and recommend necessary repairs or upgrades. This proactive approach will minimise the risk of electrical emergencies during winter and the impending wet season at the end of the year.
Maintaining your home’s electrical system during winter is crucial for safety, efficiency, and longevity. By following these five essential tips and taking advantage of Rolly’s Electrical services, you can keep your electrical system in top shape and enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient winter season (and for the seasons to come). Please contact us with any questions or to arrange any electrical work.
