Colorado Summer Storm Prep: 5 Electrical Safety Tips for July and Beyond
Colorado’s summer skies may be beautiful, but they’re also unpredictable. July marks the start of the state’s thunderstorm season, bringing heavy rains, high winds, lightning, and sudden power outages. For homeowners, that means now is the time to prepare your home’s electrical system before a storm does damage.
Whether it’s safeguarding your electronics from a power surge or ensuring your backup generator is ready to go, these tips from Colorado Industrial Electrical Services (CIES) will help keep your home safe and powered—even when the weather turns wild.
⚡ 1. Install Whole-Home Surge Protection
Lightning strikes or utility grid disturbances can send dangerous voltage spikes through your home’s wiring—damaging appliances, HVAC systems, and electronics in seconds.
Why It Matters:
- Surge protectors divert excess voltage safely into the ground.
- They protect your entire system, not just single outlets like power strips.
- They’re especially crucial in storm-prone areas like Colorado’s Front Range.
✅ Tip: Have a licensed electrician install a panel-mounted surge protector for full-home protection.
🔌 2. Prepare or Upgrade Your Backup Generator
Power outages are common during summer storms. A backup generator can keep essentials running—like your fridge, sump pump, medical equipment, and lights.
Key Considerations:
- Portable vs. Standby Generators: Standby models power your home automatically.
- Fuel Source: Natural gas, propane, or diesel? Each has pros and cons.
- Transfer Switches: Essential for safety—automatically switches your power source from the grid to the generator.
✅ Tip: Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. A transfer switch installed by a pro like CIES is a must.
💡 3. Test GFCI Outlets and Circuit Breakers
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to shut off power in damp areas (like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoors). They’re vital during storm season when flooding or water exposure is more likely.
What to Do:
- Test all GFCI outlets monthly using the “test” and “reset” buttons.
- Upgrade any old outlets near water sources.
- Inspect your circuit breaker panel for signs of corrosion or wear.
🌪️ 4. Know What to Do During a Power Outage
Even with prep, outages happen. Keep your family and home safe by following a simple checklist when the lights go out.
Outage Checklist:
- Unplug electronics to prevent damage when power returns.
- Use battery-powered lights—avoid candles.
- Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible.
- Turn off major appliances (AC, water heater, washer) to prevent overload when power returns.
✅ Tip: CIES can help install automatic transfer switches and dedicated circuits to protect your most important systems.
🔧 5. Schedule a Professional Storm Readiness Inspection
DIY only goes so far. Let the professionals ensure your system is truly storm-ready. A storm-readiness inspection from CIES includes:
- Panel check for wear and load issues
- Wiring inspection for water intrusion or loose connections
- Generator and surge protection setup review
- GFCI/AFCI testing
- Recommendations tailored to Colorado weather conditions
🛠️ Why Trust CIES for Your Electrical Storm Prep?
Colorado Integrated Electrical Services has years of experience helping homeowners prepare for Colorado’s unique seasonal challenges. Our licensed electricians know what to look for and how to prevent the damage that storms can cause. We’ll help you stay ahead of the storm and avoid costly emergency calls later.
Colorado storms don’t wait—so don’t wait to protect your home. From whole-home surge protection to generator readiness and outlet safety, these electrical upgrades can help your family stay safe and comfortable all season long.
Get peace of mind this summer. Schedule your storm-readiness inspection with CIES today.
