What’s the holiday season without lights? They’re on our trees, in our homes, and even on our sweaters! Lights can be an integral part of many different holiday traditions for many different families, and when they shut off, so does the fun.
Luckily, you can easily avoid power problems this holiday season by staying ahead of the potential danger that blown fuses, overloads, and electrical fires can cause. Take a look at the guidelines for safe and happy holiday electricity use below, and rest easy that your “fa la las” won’t become “oh no nos”.
Use non-electric decor when possible
The easiest way to avoid electrical problems during the holiday season? Replace some energy-consuming decor with stuff you don’t have to plug in. Long story short: choose the sparkly reindeer statue over the plug-in Rudolph with a flashing nose when given the option.
Hang up fewer lights
We’re not going to be party poopers and tell you to never use electric holiday decor, but we are going to recommend you take the less is more approach – especially when it comes to string lights. Go for simpler designs and make up for less flash by adding more color, sparkle, and general holiday spirit. You won’t miss a light, we promise!
Choose low-wattage options
If you can’t give up your lights, it’s okay. We understand. We have another option for you: LED lights. LED lights use less energy than their more traditional counterparts while also generating less heat. They cost more as an initial investment, but the added safety and lower electrical bills will more than make up for it in the long run.
Spread out electric decorations
Keep your electric decor spread out throughout the home instead of bunching it together in one spot to lessen the potential for overload within your home.
Keep electrical decorations away from heat sources
Don’t set a light-up Santa on your fireplace mantle unless you’re okay with running the risk of melting wire insulation. This might seem like we’re going overboard but, when it comes to electrical safety, we stringently believe in the “better safe than sorry” mantra.
Water your tree
Dry material covered by lights that generate heat is a recipe for disaster. Avoid it by keeping your tree happily watered.
Happy holidays – stay safe out there. If you ever have any electrical problems that need fixing, call the experts at Mike Diamond and someone will be by in no time to help.
