What to Do If You Suspect Electrical Damage After Storms in St. Louis

If you suspect electrical damage after a storm, immediately switch off your main breaker, avoid touching any wet outlets or appliances, and call a licensed electrician to inspect and repair your system.

Residents in St Louis and Nashville trust professional inspections after severe weather.

 

Signs of Storm-Related Electrical Damage

 

• Frequent breaker trips or blown fuses with no clear cause
• Flickering or dimming lights when other appliances turn on
• Outlets or switches that feel warm or emit a buzzing sound
• Visible scorch marks, cracks, or melted plastic around outlets
• Unusual odors like burning plastic or ozone near electrical panels
• Power surges causing appliances to reset or fail

 

Immediate Safety Measures

 

• Shut off the main breaker: This cuts power to the entire home and stops further damage or shock risks.
• Avoid water-damaged areas: Do not step into puddles near outlets or appliances until power is off.
• Unplug appliances: Remove plugs from all outlets, especially electronics and large appliances.
• Keep children and pets away: Secure any dangerous areas to prevent accidental contact.
• Use flashlights, not candles: Flashlights are safer and reduce fire risk in case of wiring faults.

 

Why You Need a Licensed Electrician

 

• Safety expertise: Professionals know how to handle live wiring and hidden damage without risking injury.
• Proper diagnostics: Electricians use specialized tools to test wiring integrity, voltage levels, and ground faults.
• Code compliance: Licensed experts ensure repairs meet local building codes and pass inspection.
• Insurance requirements: Many insurance policies require certified repairs for coverage after storm damage.

 

How Professionals Assess and Repair Damage

 

• Visual inspection: Checking panels, breakers, outlets, switches, and visible wiring for damage.
• Voltage and continuity testing: Using meters to confirm circuits carry correct power and have no breaks.
• Ground fault analysis: Testing safety devices like ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to ensure they trip properly.
• Wiring replacement: Removing and installing new wires or cables where water intrusion or arcing caused deterioration.
• Panel and breaker repairs: Replacing melted breakers, corroded bus bars, or damaged panels to restore safe operation.
• Appliance testing: Verifying major appliances (HVAC, refrigerators, etc.) operate safely after power restoration.

 

Preventing Future Electrical Problems

 

• Install surge protection: Whole-house surge protectors defend sensitive electronics from voltage spikes.
• Seal and elevate outlets: Weatherproof covers and raised outlet boxes protect against water entry.
• Regular inspections: Schedule annual electrical checkups to catch early wear or code updates.
• Backup power solutions: Consider generators or battery systems with automatic transfer switches for safe temporary power.
• Trim nearby trees: Prevent branches from damaging overhead lines during high winds or ice storms.
• Maintain gutters and drainage: Direct rainwater away from your foundation and exterior receptacles to reduce moisture intrusion.

 

Following these steps ensures your home’s electrical system is safe, fully restored, and better prepared for future storms.