Tree limbs pose several potential threats to power lines. If they grow too close or fall during heavy storms, they may cut off electricity and present serious safety risks. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep large or overgrown trees from causing any electrical issues. Refer to the following guide on how trees affect power lines and how professional arborists can help you prevent problems.

Your Guide to Trees & Power Lines

Issues & Risks

Electrical outages may be attributed to trees growing near power lines; when branches blow in the wind or fall, they can take down wires. Sometimes, trees and limbs also fall on supply lines, causing short circuits and damaging electrical equipment. When trees grow too close to power lines, they may transmit electricity into the earth, which can cause electrocution and fires.

Planting Guidelines 

The best way to avoid problems with the trees and power lines is planting wisely. Smaller tree species, such as hawthorns and crabapples, typically don’t pose much of a threat to power lines, so feel free to plant them wherever you wish. However, trees that grow to heights that exceed 20 feet, such as oaks, spruces, maples, and pines, should be planted at least 60 feet away from power lines. 

Prevention Methods

If you already have large trees growing on your property near power lines, prevent problems by having an arborist trim the branches annually to direct the tree’s new growth away from power lines. Throughout the year, keep an eye on your trees, and call an arborist if you notice sagging or dying branches that could become a fall risk.

Keep your tree’s branches away from power lines with services from the arborists at Carlos Tree Service. Since 1993, they have provided tree trimming, pruning, land clearing, and stump removal to clients throughout Anchorage, AK. They are also environmentally responsible, so they will create a care schedule to help your trees live longer, and if one needs to be removed, they will recycle the stump into mulch. Call (907) 522-6049 to request an estimate on tree care and set up a schedule. Visit them online to learn more about their certified team.