As temperatures climb and heatwaves hit Australia, your home’s electrical system works harder than any other time of the year.
Air conditioners run nonstop, appliances overheat, and storms roll in with little warning, the perfect recipe for electrical fires, outages, and expensive surprises.

This summer electrical safety checklist is designed to help every Aussie homeowner stay safe, reduce risks, and keep their home running smoothly during the hottest months of the year.

1. Inspect Your Switchboard for Summer Overload Risks

Your switchboard is the MVP of your electrical system.
In summer, the load increases dramatically, and small faults quickly become major hazards.

Look for:

• Power frequently tripping

• Lights flickering

• Burning smells

• Buzzing noises

• Old ceramic fuses
  
  

If any of these sound familiar, your switchboard needs immediate attention before the heatwave arrives.

2. Make Sure Your Air Conditioner Is on Its Own Circuit

Your AC is a power-hungry beast, especially during 30–40°C days.

To prevent overloads and blackouts:

• Ensure it has a dedicated circuit

• Don’t plug it into extension cords

• Clean the filters for better airflow

• Make sure the wiring is up to date
  
  

Older homes often struggle to handle modern AC units; a professional check is recommended.

3. Check All Power Points for Heat Damage

Hot weather exposes weak wiring and worn-out outlets.

Warning signs include:

• Warm or hot power points

• Cracking or discoloration

• Loose connections

• Electrical burning smell

A damaged outlet can become a fire hazard in extreme heat.

4. Install Surge Protection Before Storm Season

Summer storms are unpredictable and they can fry your appliances instantly.

Surge protection can save your:

• TV

• Fridge

• Computer

• Solar inverter

• Aircon system

• Smart devices
  
  

A whole-home surge protector is a small upgrade that prevents massive repair bills.

5. Replace Damaged Extension Cords and Power Boards

Summer = fans, outdoor fridges, Christmas lights, more appliances.

Avoid:

• Using frayed or pinched cables

• Running cords under carpets

• Overloading power boards

• Using indoor boards outside

These are some of the biggest causes of electrical fires in summer.

6. Test Your Smoke Alarms (Critical for Fire Season)

Summer is peak house-fire season in Australia.

Your home must have:

• Working smoke alarms

• Interconnected alarms (recommended)

• Monthly testing

• Yearly battery changes

• Alarms replaced every 10 years

This is one of the simplest and most important safety steps.

7. Give Appliances Proper Ventilation

Heat makes appliances work harder, and they must be able to breathe.

Check:

• Fridges aren’t pushed against walls

• Dryers have ventilation

• Entertainment systems are not enclosed

• Outdoor fridges aren’t in direct sun

• Fans are stable and safe

Poor ventilation = overheating = electrical failure.

8. Ensure Outdoor Electrical Areas Are Summer-Safe

Summer is full of:

• BBQs

• Christmas lights

• Pool parties

• Garden gatherings

Make sure your outdoor electricals are:

• Weatherproof (IP-rated outlets)

• Not overloaded

• Properly sealed

• Free from exposed wires

• Safe around pools and wet areas

This is where most outdoor accidents happen.

9. Book a Summer Electrical Safety Inspection

Before the heatwave arrives, get a licensed electrician to check:

• Switchboard condition

• Circuit load capacity

• Safety switch operation

• Aircon circuits

• Old or unsafe wiring

• Outdoor power setups

• Surge protection

• Fire risk areas

A quick inspection now prevents emergencies later.

Australian summers hit hard, and electrical systems take the biggest beating.
By following this checklist, you’ll protect your home, prevent breakdowns, and keep your family safe during the hottest months of the year.

Don’t wait for a heatwave or an electrical emergency. Call us now to book your Summer Electrical Safety Inspection and keep your home protected all season long.