February is the perfect month to give your home a little extra attention. The cold and wet weather can put extra strain on your electrical system, so it’s a good time to check that everything is safe, functional, and ready for the year ahead. Winter Electrical Safety Tips 1. Check Your Heating Electric heaters, storage heaters, and underfloor heating should be inspected to ensure they are running safely and efficiently. 2. Inspect Cables and Plugs Cold weather can make cables brittle. Check for fraying, cracks, or signs of wear and replace any damaged items immediately. 3. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Electrical faults can increase the risk of fire. Make sure your alarms are working and replace batteries if needed. 4. Plan for Lighting February can still be dark and dreary. Consider updating lighting in key areas, especially entrances and gardens, for safety and security. 5. Outdoor Electrical Checks If you have outdoor sockets or garden lighting, make sure everything is waterproof, switched off when not in use, and safe to operate in wet conditions. Why Hire a Qualified Electrician Even simple checks can uncover hidden issues that could be dangerous. A professional electrician will ensure your home is safe, compliant with regulations, and ready for the year ahead.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to think about home improvements, and for many, that means planning a new kitchen. Whether you’re renovating or building from scratch, the electrical setup in your kitchen is crucial for safety, convenience, and style. Why Kitchen Electrical Planning Matters A kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in a home, with multiple appliances, lighting, and gadgets all running at once. Poorly planned electrical systems can lead to overloaded sockets, safety hazards, and costly fixes later on. By planning ahead, you can ensure your kitchen is both functional and safe. Key Electrical Considerations for Your New Kitchen 1. Sufficient Power Points Make sure there are enough sockets for all your appliances, from the kettle and toaster to your blender and coffee machine. Think about counter-height outlets for convenience and hidden outlets in cabinets for small appliances. 2. Dedicated Circuits High-power appliances like ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers should have their own circuits to prevent overloads and protect your home’s electrical system. 3. Smart and Energy-Efficient Lighting Layer your lighting with task lights, ambient lighting, and accent lighting. LED downlights and under-cabinet lights are energy-efficient and perfect for modern kitchens. 4. Safety First Kitchens are prone to moisture, so sockets near sinks or water sources must be RCD protected (residual current device) to prevent electrical shocks. 5. Future-Proof Your Kitchen Consider wiring for additional appliances or smart home devices you might want in the future. Planning now can save hassle and cost later. Why Hire a Qualified Electrician Kitchen electrics are complex and safety-critical. A qualified electrician will: Ensure all work meets UK electrical regulations Fit sockets, circuits, and lighting safely and efficiently Advise on the best layout for convenience and aesthetics Help you plan for future upgrades Ready to Start Your Kitchen Project? If a new kitchen is on your 2026 list, Lighthouse Electrical Contractors can help make your electrical planning stress-free and safe. From socket placement to lighting design and appliance circuits, we’ll ensure your kitchen is perfect for cooking, entertaining, and living. Get in touch today and make your new kitchen both stylish and safe!