Northern Colorado summers can push your home to its limits, not just with soaring temperatures but also with increased energy consumption. As temperatures rise, so does the demand on your electrical system. Between central air conditioning, portable AC units, fans, and refrigerators working overtime, your home may pull more power than it was ever designed to handle.
Understanding summer electrical safety isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It’s about preventing dangerous overloads, reducing fire risk, and protecting your appliances and HVAC system from costly damage.
This blog breaks down how to manage your home electrical load in Colorado, how to safely use cooling appliances like portable ACs, and how to stay comfortable without sacrificing safety or energy efficiency. These tips apply whether you’re in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Windsor, or anywhere across Northern Colorado.
Why Summer Puts Extra Strain on Your Electrical System
The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that air conditioning accounts for about 12% of total home energy usage and a much higher percentage during peak summer months. If your electric HVAC system is outdated, inefficient, or not properly maintained, that load increases significantly.
In Colorado, the combination of hot days, frequent storms, and older homes can add up to electrical systems being pushed to their limit.
Common Signs of Electrical Overload:
- Circuit breakers frequently tripping
- The lights dim when major appliances turn on
- Warm or buzzing outlets
- Burning smells from electrical panels or cords
- Power strips overheating or failing
These are not minor annoyances; they’re warning signs that your home’s wiring or panel may not be keeping up.
Understanding Home Electrical Load in Colorado
Your home electrical load refers to the total demand placed on your system by all operating devices, appliances, and systems. Every circuit has a limit. When the combined power draw exceeds that limit, the circuit breaker trips to prevent overheating or fire.
In Colorado, older homes, especially those built before the 1980s, often have 60-amp or 100-amp panels, which may not be sufficient for modern air conditioning systems, EV chargers, or home office setups. If your system hasn’t been upgraded in years, it may be time for an inspection.
A professional electrical inspection from Lion Home Service can measure your total load and help determine whether your panel or wiring needs an upgrade to safely handle the demands of summer cooling.
Portable AC Safety: What You Need to Know
Portable AC safety is a major concern, especially as more homeowners turn to standalone units to cool specific rooms. While they’re convenient and cost-effective in the short term, they can pose serious risks if misused.
Safety Tips for Using Portable AC Units:
- Plug Directly into a Wall Outlet
- Never plug a portable AC unit into a power strip or extension cord. These devices are high-draw appliances and should only be used with outlets that can handle the amperage.
- Don’t Overload the Circuit
- Avoid plugging other major appliances into the same outlet or circuit. If your breaker trips when the AC is on, it’s a sign the circuit is overloaded.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation
- Portable units require a vent to expel hot air. Improper venting can cause overheating and reduce the unit’s effectiveness.
- Keep Cords Away from Water Sources
- Always place your unit on a level, dry surface and keep cords away from windows and sinks to reduce shock risk.
- Check the Unit’s Wattage
- Know how much energy your portable AC is using and whether your circuit can support it. This is especially important in older homes with limited electrical capacity.
Optimizing an Electric HVAC System
Your electric HVAC system is often the biggest contributor to your summer energy use. But with the right care and upgrades, you can improve efficiency and reduce the strain on your electrical panel.
How to Reduce HVAC Load:
- Schedule annual maintenance: Regular tune-ups ensure your system is operating efficiently and not drawing more power than necessary.
- Seal ducts and insulate properly: Leaks and poor insulation force your HVAC system to work harder, drawing more electricity.
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat: Smart thermostats help optimize run times and reduce overuse, especially during peak hours.
- Change air filters regularly: A clogged filter can reduce airflow, forcing the unit to run longer and pull more energy.
- Consider zoning: If your home has rooms that aren’t in regular use, zoning can help you cool only the areas that need it.
When to Call an Electrician
If you’re experiencing frequent tripped breakers, notice dimming lights when your AC turns on, or use multiple portable units in your home, it’s time to call a licensed electrician.
Lion Home Service’s licensed professionals can:
- Assess your total home electrical load.
- Upgrade outdated panels to 200 amps or higher.
- Add dedicated circuits for HVAC or portable units.
- Install surge protection to protect appliances.
- Provide whole-home energy assessments.
Addressing these concerns early not only prevents emergencies, but it also ensures your family stays safe and cool all summer long in Northern Colorado.
Summer Electrical Safety Checklist
Before the next heatwave, run through this basic summer electrical safety checklist:
- Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Make sure major appliances are plugged directly into grounded outlets
- Avoid connecting multiple power strips together or “daisy-chaining” as it’s a fire hazard.
- Unplug unused appliances to reduce phantom load
- Avoid running the AC, dryer, and oven all at once during peak heat hours
- Have your panel inspected if it’s more than 25 years old
- Consider adding surge protection for the whole home
These small steps can prevent big problems and keep your cooling systems running safely and efficiently.
Energy-Saving Cooling Alternatives
To further reduce your electric HVAC system load, consider supplementing with passive and low-energy cooling options:
- Ceiling fans: Help circulate cool air, allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees.
- Blackout curtains: Block heat from sunlight during peak hours.
- Nighttime ventilation: Open windows at night to let in cooler air, then seal the home in the morning.
- Dehumidifiers: Removing humidity makes your space feel cooler even at higher temps.
- Whole-house fans: Move hot air out through the attic and pull in cooler air from outside.
These methods can make a noticeable difference, especially when paired with a properly functioning HVAC system.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, improving HVAC efficiency and maintaining your electrical system can cut summer cooling costs by 20% to 50%.
Does Lion Offer Electrical Services Near Me?
Need electrical help for your lights and decorations this holiday season? Contact our electricians in the following locations:
- Fort Collins
- Loveland
- Greeley
- Longmont
- Windsor
- Boulder
- Estes Park
- Bellvue
- Fort Lupton
- Eaton
- Fort Morgan
Stay Safe, Stay Cool with Lion Home Service
Summer comfort shouldn’t come at the expense of electrical safety. If your system is struggling or you’re unsure whether your home can handle another heatwave, trust the experts at Lion Home Service.
We provide:
- Electrical panel upgrades
- Home energy audits
- HVAC maintenance and repair
- Safe portable AC integration
- Surge protection and circuit balancing
With one call, you can protect your family, your property, and your cooling equipment from preventable damage.
Ready for a safe and cool summer? Book your electrical and HVAC checkup today. Call or text at (970) 510-0522, or schedule online with Lion Home Service.
