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West Central Florida
Summer is right around the corner, and while many people are prepping their air conditioners and pulling out their patio furniture, there’s another vital part of your home that deserves some attention: your electrical system.
When temperatures soar, your electrical system is under more pressure than any other time of year. From running the AC around the clock to powering fans, appliances, and outdoor lighting, summer heat pushes your wiring, breakers, and outlets to the limit. That’s why taking care of a few smart electrical upgrades before the heat kicks in can save you money, prevent power outages, and improve energy efficiency.
In this blog, we’ll break down the top 5 electrical projects you should tackle before summer arrives. Whether you’re a homeowner or a property manager, these tips will help you stay cool, safe, and energy-efficient all season long.
1. Upgrade or Inspect Your Electrical Panel
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system. If it’s outdated, overloaded, or showing signs of wear, it can cause serious problems during high-demand months like summer.
Why it matters:
- Older panels can overheat or trip breakers more frequently when ACs and fans are running constantly.
- Undersized panels may not support modern air conditioning systems, leading to inefficiency or electrical hazards.
What to look for:
- Flickering lights
- Frequent tripped breakers
- A panel over 25 years old
Solution: Have a licensed electrician inspect your panel. If needed, upgrade it to handle your current and future power needs.
2. Install or Upgrade Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for show—they significantly improve airflow and help reduce your AC usage.
Why it matters:
- A good ceiling fan can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler.
- It reduces strain on your HVAC system and lowers your energy bill.
Pro tip: Make sure your fan is set to spin counterclockwise in the summer. This pushes cool air downward and improves circulation.
Bonus project: Install fans in rooms that don’t already have them, especially bedrooms or second-story areas that tend to trap heat.
3. Add Surge Protection for Summer Storms
With summer often comes thunderstorms, and with storms come power surges. These can damage your electronics, appliances, and HVAC system in seconds.
Why it matters:
- Whole-house surge protection helps protect your home from voltage spikes caused by lightning or grid issues.
- Even small surges over time can degrade your equipment, costing you more in repairs or replacements.
Solution: Ask your electrician about installing a surge protection device (SPD) directly at your electrical panel. It’s a small investment for major peace of mind.
4. Install a Smart Thermostat
Summer energy bills can skyrocket if your AC is running non-stop. A smart thermostat gives you better control over your home’s climate—and your wallet.
Why it matters:
- Automatically adjusts temperature based on your habits
- Can be controlled remotely via smartphone
- Helps reduce energy consumption during peak hours
Popular options: Google Nest, Ecobee, and Honeywell all offer models that integrate with smart home systems.
Expert tip: Make sure the thermostat is installed on an interior wall, away from direct sunlight or drafts, for accurate readings.
5. Outdoor Lighting and Electrical Safety Check
Summer means more time spent outside—so don’t forget your outdoor electrical systems. From landscape lighting to pool pumps, make sure everything is safe and efficient.
Why it matters:
- Outdoor outlets and wiring are more vulnerable to weather damage
- Faulty or outdated outdoor systems can pose fire or shock hazards
Checklist:
- Replace broken fixtures or exposed wiring
- Upgrade to LED outdoor lights for better energy savings
- Make sure all outdoor outlets are GFCI protected
- Check that pool and spa equipment is properly grounded and bonded
Schedule a Pre-Summer Electrical Inspection
If you’re not sure where to start, or just want to be thorough, call a licensed electrician for a whole-home electrical inspection. They’ll identify potential problems before they turn into expensive emergencies.
What a typical inspection covers:
- Breaker panel check
- Outlet and switch inspection
- GFCI and AFCI testing
- Load testing and wire integrity
- HVAC and AC electrical connection checks
Think of it as a check-up for your home’s nervous system.
By handling these 5 electrical projects before the summer heat hits, you’ll save money, reduce energy consumption, and make your home more comfortable. Most importantly, you’ll help keep your family safe from electrical issues during the most power-hungry time of year.
Whether you’re installing a ceiling fan or upgrading your entire panel, it’s always best to partner with a licensed, experienced electrician to ensure the work is done safely and to code.
Stay Safe and Comfortable This Summer with Taddeo Electrical Contractors
At Taddeo Electrical Contractors, we specialize in preparing homes and businesses for the demands of summer. From panel upgrades to smart home installations, our team of licensed electricians is ready to help you make the most of the season.
Contact us today to schedule your summer-ready electrical inspection or get a quote on your next home project.