Electrical
House blanketed in snow

While you never know when an emergency will occur, you can still plan around a predicted winter storm. For instance, you may want to gather supplies in case of a winter power outage. This way, you can keep your household safe from the cold, power surges and other outage-related issues. If you need help preparing your home, turn to Service Professor in Grand Rapids, MI.

1. Seal & Insulate Your Home

When you know a storm is coming, walk through your home to check for drafts. Use caulk or weather stripping around your windows and doors to prevent air leaks. It’s also important to ensure your walls are well-insulated, upgrading the insulation as needed. Double-check the attic to ensure it is properly insulated.

You can also add an extra layer of protection by covering your interior windows using plastic film kits. Another idea is to install storm windows.

2. Inspect Your Heating & Vents

Service your furnace before winter to ensure your home is warm before and after power outages. Fortunately, we offer furnace maintenance, installation and repair. We can also show you how to reset the furnace after an outage as needed.

Furthermore, you must ensure all gas-burning appliances are well-ventilated to keep your home safe and healthy. This includes your fireplace and wood-burning stove. You also want to ensure the outdoor vents are clear of snow, ice and other debris.

3. Install & Test Safety Devices

Install and test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before a winter storm hits in Grand Rapids. Install each device near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances, complete with a working battery, and consider upgrading to hard-wired devices that alert together when one senses smoke or carbon monoxide. You should also ensure you have backup batteries for each device. Remember, the key is to ensure these devices work properly before a potential outage. Additionally, keep a fire extinguisher near areas with a fireplace, wood-burning stove and other heating appliances.

4. Protect Your Pipes From Freezing

Pipes start freezing when the temperature drops to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below, which can happen during winter power outages. You need to protect these pipes from freezing, especially if they’re uninsulated or in cold areas. Start by opening under-sink cabinet doors to let the warm air flow around the pipes. Wrap any exposed pipes with insulation or towels to slow down the freezing process. You can keep the water flowing by letting the faucets drip slightly. However, prepare to shut off the main water valve to prevent burst pipes.

5. Prepare Your Power & Communication

When you know a winter storm is on the way, keep your mobile phones and other necessary electronics fully charged. This includes tablets and power banks. You also want to ensure your power banks and charging cables are easily accessible. Keeping your electronics charged allows you to communicate with others outside your home as needed, especially in an emergency.

6. Consider Your Alternative Heat Sources

If possible, consider alternative heat sources for your home, such as a fireplace or wood-burning stove. Moreover, be sure to stock up on dry firewood to continue using these appliances during the outage. Follow all the safety guidelines for heated appliances. For example, you should never use an unvented heater inside the house.

Another option is contacting Service Professor about installing a gas-powered generator. Our generators use propane or natural gas to power your whole home, making it easier to get through an outage. Of course, you need to ensure you have enough fuel before the storm hits. However, never store the fuel inside your home.

7. Gather Items for Heating & Warmth

There are other items you can use for heating and warmth, such as throw blankets and comforters. You also want to ensure everyone has a sleeping bag, especially if you are staying in a room with a fireplace. Everyone should also keep sweaters, sweatshirts and other warm clothes within reach. If you’re using a generator, even periodically, hot beverages and soup can help everyone stay warm.

8. Pack a Bin of Essentials

The minute you know a winter storm is heading to Grand Rapids, pack a bin or bag of essentials. It’s better to pack these items and not need them than to be without them during an outage. Your kit should include flashlights or lanterns, a crank or battery-powered radio and extra batteries. Other items include a lighter, waterproof matches and a can opener.

You also need to refill the first-aid kit and medications as needed, and keep these essentials on hand. A generator is ideal for those who use electrical medical equipment, such as sleep apnea machines.

9. Stock up on Food & Water

Plan to have at least three days of non-perishable food per person. You also need at least one gallon of bottled water per person for several days. It never hurts to stock up on extra water for cooking, especially if you turn off the main water valve. If you have pets, stock up on food and water for them as well.

10. Unplug Electronics & Major Appliances

Once the storm arrives, start unplugging important electronics and appliances before the power goes out. You may receive a warning sign of an outage, such as flickering lights. Unplugging your electronics and appliances protects them from power surges, which can happen as the power returns. A power surge can damage your electronics and appliances.

Our company offers whole-home surge protection, providing peace of mind during and after power outages. With this type of surge protection, you can protect all the devices in your home, ranging from refrigerators, microwaves and washers to computers, game consoles and modems.

Schedule Your Generator Service With [company_Name] Today

Since 1978, we have grown from a small electrical company to a large home service company in Grand Rapids. Every technician has undergone training in a range of tasks, including electrical installation, generator installation and surge protection. In addition to installing your generator, we will provide tips on how to properly use it during power outages. We’ll also recommend surge protectors to reduce your stress during winter storms. Our team provides additional services, including rewiring, outlet repair, breaker repair and lighting installation, to create a safe, functional home all year round. We have an A+ rating with the BBB and positive reviews on Google, Facebook, Nextdoor, Angi’s List and HomeAdvisor. We have also won several awards, including the 2020 Angi Super Service Award and 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves.

If you want to install or upgrade a generator before the next storm in Grand Rapids, contact Service Professor today.

company icon