Is Your Electrical Panel Ready for Summer?

When we think of summer prep, most homeowners focus on air conditioners, patio furniture, or yardwork—but there’s one often-overlooked area that quietly powers it all: your electrical panel.

As temperatures rise, so does your home’s electrical demand. That cold-weather wiring setup might not be ready for the added stress of summer appliances and outdoor living. So… is your panel up for it?

Here’s why it matters—and what you can do to make sure your power doesn’t fall short when the heat turns up.

🔌 Summer Brings More Electrical Load Than You Think

You might not notice it at first, but summer puts serious pressure on your system. Consider all the things that weren’t running in the winter:

• Central or window A/C units

• Ceiling and box fans in every room

• Electric grills and smokers

• Pool pumps and hot tubs

• Outdoor lighting and entertainment systems

• Power tools for landscaping and DIY projects

If your panel is already near capacity—or outdated—it may start showing signs of stress: frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or overheating outlets. Those aren’t just annoyances—they’re warnings.

⚠️ Warning Signs Your Panel Might Not Be Summer-Ready

• You hear buzzing or sizzling from the panel or outlets

• Breakers trip often—especially when running the A/C or other high-draw appliances

• Lights dim or flicker when large appliances turn on

• Your panel is more than 25 years old or still uses fuses

• You’re relying on extension cords to make up for a lack of outlets

If you’ve noticed any of these issues, it’s time to take action before summer pushes your system past its limits.

🛠️ Upgrade or Expand? What Are Your Options?

Every home is different, but here are the most common panel-related upgrades we handle this time of year:

✔ Panel Inspections

If you’re unsure of your panel’s condition or capacity, we’ll start with a full inspection. We’ll look for signs of wear, overheating, outdated breakers, and evaluate your current and future load requirements.

✔ Panel Upgrades

If your panel is outdated or too small, we can upgrade it to a 200-amp system or more, depending on your home’s needs. This gives you room to grow—whether it’s an A/C unit today or a hot tub next year.

✔ Subpanel Additions

Adding a shop, backyard shed, or outdoor kitchen? A subpanel might be the perfect solution to give those areas dedicated, safe power without overloading your main system.

✔ Dedicated Circuits

Air conditioners, electric grills, and EV chargers often require their own circuits. We’ll make sure everything is installed safely and in compliance with code.

☀️ Prep Now—Enjoy a Safer, Cooler Summer

Summer should be spent enjoying your home—not dealing with preventable electrical problems. Let Bowman Electric make sure your panel is safe, efficient, and ready to power your summer plans with confidence.

Ready for a summer-ready panel? Call us today or book your inspection online—before the heat wave hits.

When Water Gets In: Why Exterior Light Fixtures Need Weather Protection

Your home’s exterior lighting plays a big role in both safety and curb appeal—but if your fixtures aren’t properly sealed, they could be at risk for hidden electrical damage.

Over time, moisture from rain, humidity, or even simple condensation can work its way into exterior light fixtures. Wall sconces, porch lights, and garage-mounted fixtures are especially vulnerable since they’re constantly exposed to the elements. Once water seeps in around old seals or open bulb sockets, problems can start to show up.

What Moisture Can Do to Your Fixtures

Even a small amount of moisture can cause big issues, including:

• Rust or corrosion on metal components

• Flickering or dim lights due to faulty connections

• Tripped breakers or short circuits

• Fire hazards if left unaddressed

Fixtures that weren’t designed to handle constant exposure—or have aged out of their protection—often fail silently until the damage becomes obvious or dangerous.

The Bowman Electric Fix

At Bowman Electric, we help homeowners stay ahead of these issues by offering:

✅ Upgraded, weather-sealed light fixtures designed for year-round exposure

✅ Wiring inspections for corrosion or damage

✅ Fixture assessments to ensure safe, code-compliant operation

If your exterior lights are flickering, showing signs of rust, or just looking outdated, now’s the time to swap them out for fixtures made to last in Montana’s unpredictable weather.

Shine Safely, All Year Long

Keeping your home’s exterior lighting reliable isn't just about looks—it's about safety and peace of mind. Whether it’s on your front porch, garage, or backyard shed, Bowman Electric can help you light your way with confidence.

Call us today to schedule an inspection or get a quote on weather-sealed lighting upgrades for your home.

Protect Your Detached Garage or Barn Wiring from Spring Moisture

Spring is a time of renewal and increased activity, especially for homeowners who rely on their detached garages, barns, or workshops. Whether you're tuning up equipment, working on projects, or simply organizing for the season, one critical factor to consider is the condition of your electrical wiring. Moisture can pose a significant risk to aging or improperly installed wiring, leading to electrical failures, short circuits, and even fire hazards.

Why Moisture Poses a Risk

As temperatures rise and spring rains arrive, excess moisture can seep into garages and barns through cracks, unsealed openings, or condensation buildup. If your electrical wiring is outdated, damaged, or exposed, it becomes vulnerable to:

• Corrosion – Moisture can cause wiring and electrical components to corrode, leading to poor connections and increased resistance.

• Short Circuits – Water exposure can create electrical shorts, which may trip breakers or, worse, start fires.

• Shock Hazards – Damp environments heighten the risk of electrical shocks, especially when using power tools or extension cords.

Signs Your Wiring May Need an Upgrade

If you notice any of these warning signs in your detached garage or barn, it may be time to call a professional electrician:

• Flickering lights or frequent breaker trips

• Outlets or switches that feel warm to the touch

• Exposed or frayed wiring

• Rust or discoloration around electrical panels and outlets

• A burning smell near outlets or electrical devices

How We Can Help

At Bowman Electric, we specialize in ensuring your detached structures are safe and functional, no matter the season. Our expert services include:

1. Rewiring for Safety and Efficiency

If your garage or barn has outdated or improperly installed wiring, we can upgrade it with moisture-resistant, code-compliant solutions. Rewiring ensures a reliable power supply while reducing the risk of electrical hazards.

2. Dedicated Circuits for Tools and Equipment

Spring projects often require power tools, heavy-duty equipment, or additional lighting. We install dedicated circuits to handle the increased load safely, preventing breaker overloads and power disruptions.

3. Weatherproof Outlet Installations

Standard outlets can quickly become a hazard in damp environments. Our team can install weatherproof GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets to protect against shocks and improve overall safety.

Don't Wait Until Problems Arise

Spring is the perfect time to ensure your garage, barn, or workshop is wired safely and efficiently. Don’t let moisture damage put your property or safety at risk—contact Bowman Electric today for an inspection and upgrade consultation. Our expert team is ready to keep your workspace powered safely all season long!