Summer is a season of sunshine, cookouts, and family fun—but it can also bring a wave of electrical problems you may not expect. As temperatures climb, your home’s electrical system works harder than almost any other time of year. More power is drawn to keep your space cool and comfortable, and that extra demand can strain older wiring, outdated panels, or neglected circuits.
If you’re noticing flickering lights, tripping breakers, or unusual behavior from appliances, it’s time to pay attention. You need a reliable electrician in Des Moines, IA! Here’s a look at some of the most common electrical issues homeowners face in the summer—and why you shouldn’t ignore them.
Heavy A/C Load on the System
Your air conditioner is the hardest-working appliance in your home during the summer months. When it kicks on, especially if it’s an older or oversized unit, it can put a big demand on your electrical system. If you notice the lights dimming briefly when the A/C starts up or your breaker trips unexpectedly, that’s a red flag. You might need a dedicated circuit, a panel upgrade, or at the very least, an inspection to ensure your wiring is up to the task.
Breaker Box Overload
Summer often means more people at home, more electronics plugged in, and more appliances running at once. Add that to the usual demands from your cooling system, and it’s no surprise many homeowners run into issues with tripped breakers. If this is happening regularly, your panel may be underpowered or failing. A professional can assess whether you need an upgrade or just some rebalancing of circuit loads.
Worn or Unsafe Outdoor Outlets
Outdoor kitchens, power tools, pool equipment, and decorative lighting all get more use during the warmer months. If your exterior outlets aren’t properly protected or weatherproofed, you could be at risk for shocks or electrical shorts—especially if rain or sprinkler systems get involved. Make sure all outdoor outlets are GFCI-protected, and get any cracked or damaged covers replaced promptly.
Voltage Fluctuations or Surges
With all the heavy usage in your home—and across the neighborhood—voltage dips and spikes are more likely in the summer. You may notice devices acting strangely, lights flickering more often, or electronics failing prematurely. Installing a whole-home surge protector can go a long way toward preventing serious damage, especially during thunderstorm season when lightning-related surges are also a concern.
Aging Electrical Infrastructure
Summer often reveals the weak spots in your electrical system. If your home was built several decades ago, chances are its electrical panel, wiring, and outlets were never designed for today’s energy demands. Even newer homes can suffer from builder-grade panels or overloaded circuits if additions or upgrades weren’t wired properly. A summer inspection can uncover these issues before they cause trouble.
Don’t Wait for a Breakdown
Summer electrical problems can range from mildly annoying to seriously hazardous. If you’re seeing any unusual signs—or just want to make sure your home is ready to handle the summer load—call our expert team. We’ll troubleshoot, repair, and upgrade whatever your system needs to stay cool, safe, and reliable. Let us help you enjoy a stress-free summer, without worrying about what’s going on behind the walls.
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! Contact us today for a qualified electrician in Des Moines, IA!