Winter is the peak
In Spokane, electrical systems work hardest in winter. Furnace blowers, heat pumps with electric backup, space heaters, block heaters, heat tape and holiday lighting all add load during the coldest months. If breakers trip on cold nights or lights dim when heating equipment starts, an electrician can measure the loads and recommend changes. Space heaters in particular should be plugged directly into wall outlets, not extension cords or power strips, and kept away from anything that can burn.
Snow, ice and the service drop
NOAA's engineering weather data for Spokane lists a 50-year ground snow load of 42 pounds per square foot and about 72 freeze-thaw cycles a year. Heavy snow, ice and falling branches can pull on the service drop and damage the mast and meter base. If the service wires are hanging low, the mast is bent or the meter is pulling away from the house, stay clear and call the utility. Repairs to the homeowner's side usually need an electrician and an inspection before the utility reconnects power.
Heat pumps and electrification
Heat pumps are increasingly common in Spokane, and Washington falls under the Department of Energy's North region for efficiency standards. Heat pumps with electric resistance backup can draw a lot of current on cold nights. Before installing one, have an electrician confirm the panel and service can carry it, or discuss a dual-fuel system with your HVAC contractor. Adding an EV charger at the same time adds more load; load management devices can help.
Generators and backup power
Winter storms can bring outages. If you want backup power, have an electrician install a transfer switch or interlock and a properly rated inlet. Never plug a generator into a wall outlet, and always run it outdoors, away from windows, doors and vents.
Outdoor equipment
Outdoor outlets, hot tub disconnects and heat tape need weather-rated equipment and GFCI protection. Heat tape on pipes and roof edges should be inspected each fall and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Buried lines
If you're running power to a detached garage, shop or outbuilding, ask how deep the conductors will be buried and how they'll be protected. A joint City of Spokane and Spokane County codes policy sets frost depth at 24 inches for footings, and ground movement from freezing can damage shallow conduit and the transitions where it rises above ground.
Before you hire
Ask Spokane electricians how they size circuits for heating equipment, whether they handle generator transfer switches, and whether permits are included. Use L&I's contractor lookup to check their Washington registration, bond and insurance before you sign.