Electrical Fire Safety in the Summer: Don't Let Overloaded Circuits Ruin the BBQ

Kristin Woolley
Aug 6
3 min read

When the weather heats up, so does your home’s electrical load. From air conditioning units and outdoor lighting to patio refrigerators and electric grills, summer puts serious pressure on your electrical system. Unfortunately, overloaded circuits and improper wiring can quickly turn your backyard BBQ into an emergency.

Here’s how to stay safe, cool, and fire-free all summer long.

🔥 Why Electrical Fires Spike in the Summer

Electrical Fire caused by overload from Extension Cords

Most people associate electrical fires with winter space heaters, but summer poses its own risks:

Air conditioners pull heavy power loads, especially if they're older units.
Extension cords often get overused for outdoor appliances or lighting.
Outdoor outlets might not be properly GFCI-protected.
DIY wiring for outdoor projects can lead to unsafe connections or code violations.

All of these factors can overload your system and potentially spark an electrical fire.

⚡ Warning Signs of an Overloaded Circuit

Not sure if your system is stressed? Look for these red flags:

Circuit breakers trip frequently
Lights dim or flicker when appliances run
Outlets feel warm or smell burnt
You’re daisy-chaining power strips or running multiple heavy-load appliances on the same outlet

A tripped breaker is visible in an electrical panel, with one switch in the "off" position while others remain on.

If any of this sounds familiar, it's time to call a licensed electrician—before the next cookout turns into chaos.

🔌 Summer Safety Tips for Outdoor Electrical Use

A master electrician conducts a thorough inspection of an electrical panel, using a multimeter to ensure safety and functionality.

Use GFCI Outlets Outdoors
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters help prevent shock and electrical fires. If your outdoor outlets aren’t GFCI-protected, get them upgraded ASAP.
Avoid Overloading Circuits
Don’t plug your A/C unit, beer fridge, and sound system into the same circuit. Spread the load or consider adding dedicated circuits for high-demand devices.
Use Outdoor-Rated Extension Cords Only
Never use indoor cords outside—they can’t withstand moisture or heat. Also, avoid running cords under rugs or through doorways.
Get an Electrical Panel Inspection
Older homes might not be equipped to handle today’s electrical demands. A quick inspection can reveal hidden issues and help prevent overheating.
Don’t DIY Permanent Wiring
Running temporary lights? No problem. Installing new outdoor outlets or wiring your shed? Call a pro. Improper work is one of the top causes of electrical fires.

🧯 What to Do If a Fire Starts

If you smell burning plastic, see sparks, or notice smoke coming from an outlet:

Turn off the power at the main breaker if it's safe to do so.
Call 911 immediately – don’t try to fight an electrical fire with water.
Have an ABC-rated fire extinguisher nearby if you’re hosting outdoor events.

In an emergency like a house fire, make sure to dial 911 for immediate assistance.

✅ Stay Safe This Summer with a Pro Inspection

At LeMaster Electric, we specialize in summer electrical safety. Whether you’re running a full outdoor kitchen or just plugging in some patio lights, we’ll make sure your system can handle the load.

Summer nights are better spent worry-free; enjoy outdoor gatherings with reliable electrical solutions.

Don’t wait until something trips, overheats, or worse. Schedule a safety check today and keep the good times—and the grill—going all season long.

Contact us now to book your summer electrical inspection or request a quote.

https://www.lemasterelectric.com/contact

📞425-540-2500