Sun's Out, Power's Out! Are You Overloading This Summer?

Ah, British summertime—the season of BBQs, garden parties, and the inevitable realisation that your outdoor extension lead is carrying more wattage than the national grid. While we all love making the most of the sun (when it actually appears), many of us don’t realise the strain we’re putting on our home’s electrics. Overloaded sockets, dodgy extensions, and garden lighting wired like a Christmas tree can all lead to power outages—or worse, electrical fires.

So, let’s talk about how to keep the lights on (safely) while you enjoy your summer fun.

Common Summer Electrical Overloads

Here are some of the biggest culprits that can trip your circuits or fry your fuses:

1. Too Many Extension Leads – Plugging multiple high-power devices (think patio heaters, sound systems, electric grills) into one extension lead is a recipe for disaster. Overloading leads to overheating, and overheating leads to a very unplanned firework display.

2. Outdoor Sockets at Full Capacity – Just because it has four sockets doesn’t mean all four should be running high-energy appliances. If your inflatable hot tub, fridge, and lighting are all on the same socket, you might be in for a blackout.

3. Old or Low-Quality Cables – Using indoor extension leads outside is a no-go. If they’re not IP-rated for outdoor use, they can be damaged by moisture, heat, or little paws and claws (yes, your pets are also at risk!).

4. Dodgy DIY Wiring – It might seem easy to rig up your own outdoor lights or rewire a plug, but incorrect wiring is one of the top causes of electrical failures. If it looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, it’s probably not safe.

Tips to Avoid Power Problems This Summer

Stay safe and keep your summer shenanigans shock-free with these tips:

✔ Use Outdoor-Rated Equipment – Extension leads, sockets, and lights should all be IP-rated for outdoor use to prevent electrical faults.

✔ Spread the Load – Avoid plugging too many high-wattage appliances into one circuit. If you need more power, consider installing additional outdoor sockets.

✔ Keep Leads & Sockets Dry – Water and electricity are NOT friends. Keep all plugs and leads off the ground and away from puddles, grass, and damp areas.

✔ Unplug When Not in Use – Don’t leave garden electrics running overnight or when you’re not home. Not only will you save energy, but you’ll also reduce the risk of overheating.

✔ Invest in a Surge Protector – Sudden power surges can damage appliances and trip your electrics. A surge protector can help prevent this.

When to Call a Professional

Some electrical jobs are best left to the pros. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to pick up the phone:

⚠ Frequent Power Trips – If your electrics keep cutting out when using garden equipment, your circuits may be overloaded or faulty.

⚠ Burning Smell or Hot Plugs – Any sign of burning or excessive heat around sockets or cables is a serious fire risk.

⚠ Flickering Outdoor Lights – This could be a sign of loose wiring or an overloaded circuit.

⚠ DIY Gone Wrong – If you’ve attempted a ‘quick fix’ and now nothing works (or worse, sparks are flying), it’s time to get an expert in.

Enjoy Summer, Stay Safe!

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to electrical safety. By following these tips, you can enjoy a fully powered, stress-free summer without any unexpected blackouts. And if in doubt, give our professional electricians a call—we’re here to keep your summer shining, safely!

Need a professional to check your garden electrics? Contact us today for a friendly and safe solution!

Wye Electrical Solutions Ltd.

info@w-es.co.uk

01600712737