Electrical fires are one of the leading causes of home damage in the United States, and unfortunately, they’re more common during the summer months. As temperatures rise, households often put more strain on their electrical systems like running fans, air conditioning units, pool equipment, outdoor lighting, and more. Combine that with older wiring or overloaded circuits, and the risk of fire increases significantly.
At Cecil Construction, Inc. (CCI), we’ve seen firsthand how devastating electrical fires can be to families in Nevada and Placer Counties. The good news? Most of them are preventable with awareness, maintenance, and the right precautions. In this post, we’ll break down why electrical fires spike in summer, what you can do to lower your risk, and when it’s time to call in professionals for help.
Why Electrical Fires Are More Common in Summer
In Nevada County people mainly worry about the possibility of a wildfire, but summer also poses a higher threat of electrical fire:
- Increased Energy Demand – Air conditioners, ceiling fans, refrigerators, and pool pumps all run for longer periods during hot months. This puts stress on circuits and wiring that may already be outdated.
- Outdoor Electrical Use – From hosting backyard barbecues with string lights to power tools for summer projects, extension cords and outdoor outlets get more use in summer—often in ways that aren’t safe.
- Higher Heat Levels – Electrical components naturally run hotter in warm weather. Combine high usage with high outdoor temperatures, and wires, outlets, and breakers are more likely to overheat.
- Aging Homes – Many homes in Nevada County were built decades ago, and if wiring or panels haven’t been updated, they may not be designed to handle today’s electrical demands.
Understanding these risks is the first step toward prevention.
Warning Signs of Electrical Problems
Electrical issues often give warning signs before they become fire hazards. Homeowners should look out for:
- Frequent breaker trips – Indicates circuits are overloaded or wiring is faulty.
- Warm or discolored outlets/switch plates – A sign of overheating and potential melting behind the walls.
- Buzzing or crackling sounds – Electricity should run silently. Any unusual sound could mean loose connections.
- Flickering or dimming lights – May point to overloaded circuits or wiring issues.
- Burning smell – Even faint odors of burning plastic should be taken seriously.
If you notice any of these, call a licensed electrician immediately. Acting early can prevent a small issue from becoming dangerous.
Tips to Prevent Electrical Fires in Summer
Preventing electrical fires doesn’t require complicated steps, it comes down to safe habits and timely maintenance. Here are some key tips:
- Avoid Overloading Circuits
Plugging too many appliances into one outlet can cause overheating. Spread out high-energy devices like air conditioners, microwaves, and hair dryers across different circuits.
- Use Extension Cords Safely
Extension cords should be temporary solutions not permanent wiring. Never run them under rugs, through doors or windows, or across areas where they can overheat or be damaged. For outdoor use, always choose cords rated for exterior conditions.
- Check Air Conditioning Units
AC units are among the biggest power draws in the summer. Have yours serviced yearly to ensure it’s not straining your electrical system. If you notice lights dimming when the AC kicks on, you may need an electrical upgrade.
- Inspect Outlets and Wiring
Check for cracked outlet covers, loose plugs, or cords that feel warm to the touch. Replace damaged cords and outlets right away. For older homes, consider a professional inspection to evaluate whether wiring meets modern safety standards. Many two pronged (non grounded) outlets were replaced with newer 3 pronged (grounded) outlets without the ground wire resulting in an open ground. This is a hazard and common in older homes.
- Unplug Unused Appliances
Appliances left plugged in still draw power and can overheat. Make it a habit to unplug devices like toasters, chargers, and fans when not in use.
- Use GFCI Outlets Outdoors
Outdoor outlets should always be protected with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), which shut off power when they detect an imbalance. This is especially important in damp or wet areas like patios and near pools.
- Keep Flammable Items Away from Outlets
Curtains, rugs, and paper stored near outlets or cords can quickly ignite if an electrical component overheats. Maintain a clear space around outlets, power strips, and electronics.
- Schedule Regular Inspections
The most reliable way to protect your home is with professional electrical inspections. A trained eye and professional equipment can identify issues you may overlook like deteriorating wiring, outdated panels, or improperly installed circuits.
What to Do if You Suspect a Problem
If you notice any signs of electrical trouble such as burning smells, hot outlets, or frequent tripping breakers, don’t ignore them. Here’s what to do:
- Turn off the power to the affected area at the breaker box.
- Unplug appliances from the affected circuit.
- Call a licensed professional to inspect and repair the issue.
- Do not under any circumstances attempt DIY electrical work electrical systems are dangerous and attempting to work on or repair could be fatal.
How CCI Can Help
At CCI, we’ve been helping Nevada and Placer County homeowners protect their homes for over 40 years. Founded in 1983 by Robert Cecil, a Nevada County native, now helped run by his 2 sons Trent and Colton Cecil, we’ve built our reputation on craftsmanship, honesty, and clear communication.
Our team works directly with homeowners and insurance companies to restore homes after electrical fires, but our goal is to help you prevent disaster in the first place. Here’s why CCI is a trusted partner:
- Comprehensive Services – From home inspections to full restoration after fire damage, we cover every stage of protecting and repairing your home.
- Local Expertise – We know the unique risks in our community such as aging homes, heavy summer AC use, and wildfire season. Our experience helps us spot and fix problems before they escalate.
- Trusted by Insurance Companies – Companies like CSAA have chosen CCI for decades because of our quality and reliability.
- Commitment to Education – We believe informed homeowners make safer choices. That’s why we provide resources like this blog to help you understand risks and solutions.
If you’re worried about your home’s electrical safety or if you’ve experienced fire, smoke, or water damage from an electrical issue, CCI is here to help. We are happy to answer any questions or provide recommendations based on your needs.
Electrical fires can devastate a home, but most are preventable with the right precautions. Summer brings increased electrical demand, which means it’s the perfect time to be proactive: inspect your outlets, avoid overloaded circuits, and schedule professional inspections if you’re unsure about your wiring.
At CCI, we’ve served this community for over four decades, and we’re committed to keeping your home safe, strong, and prepared for whatever the season brings.
📞 Call us today at (530) 274-1516 to schedule an inspection, request repairs, or learn more about our restoration services.
Your safety starts with prevention and CCI is here to stand beside you every step of the way.