As Northern Virginia families prepare for Thanksgiving celebrations, the kitchen becomes central to holiday activity. While you’re planning the perfect meal and gathering, CoreTrade Electric wants to ensure your home’s electrical system is ready to handle the increased demands of holiday cooking.
Electrical issues are common on Thanksgiving. In fact, more than double the average number of fires are reported on Thanksgiving compared to all other days of the year. We’ve compiled this quick guide to help people prevent common electrical problems and fire hazards during their holiday this year.
Understanding the Strain on Your Home’s Electrical System
Thanksgiving cooking puts unique demands on your home’s electrical system. From electric ovens and microwaves to slow cookers and electric carving knives, multiple appliances running simultaneously can strain your electrical circuits beyond their normal capacity. This increased load requires special attention to prevent potential hazards.
Common Home Electrical Concerns During Thanksgiving
#1 Overloaded Circuits
When multiple cooking appliances run simultaneously, circuits can become dangerously overloaded. Signs of an overloaded circuit include:
- Frequently tripping circuit breakers
- Dimming lights when appliances start
- Warm or buzzing outlets
- Burning odors
To prevent circuit overload, distribute your appliances across different circuits throughout your kitchen and dining area. Consider staggering the use of high-draw appliances like microwaves and electric ovens when possible.
#2 Outdated Electrical Systems in Older Homes
Northern Virginia’s charming older homes often have electrical systems that weren’t designed for modern appliances. If your home is more than 20 years old, pay special attention to:
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Unusual burning smells
- Outlets that feel warm to the touch
- Frequent circuit breaker trips
These warning signs indicate your electrical system may need professional evaluation before the holiday cooking begins.
#3 Extension Cord Safety
While extension cords offer convenient solutions for holiday cooking arrangements, they can also pose safety hazards. Overloading extension cords with high-draw appliances or using frayed or damaged cords can cause both electrical and fire hazards.
It’s better to use an outlet rather than an extension cord, if possible. Outlets provide a direct connection to your home’s electrical system and are properly rated for your circuit’s full power load. Plus, you avoid pesky tripping hazards from running cords across rooms.
#4 Essential Smoke Alarm Maintenance
With Thanksgiving being the peak day for home cooking fires, properly functioning smoke alarms are your first line of defense. Before the holiday, make sure to test all smoke alarms, replacing batteries if needed.
Alarms should be less than 10 years old and should be installed near sleeping and living areas and on each level of your home. Regularly vacuum or dust alarms to prevent false triggers from debris.
Ensure a Safe and Worry-Free Thanksgiving This Year with an Electrical Inspection with CoreTrade
Don’t let electrical concerns interfere with your holiday celebrations. CoreTrade Electric’s team of licensed electricians specializes in residential electrical services throughout Northern Virginia. Whether you need a pre-holiday inspection or encounter an unexpected electrical issue, we’re here to help—contact us today!
