Excessive amounts of holiday lighting can put a strain on your electrical system. Overloading your electrical circuits can be dangerous. It causes your circuits and wiring to overheat, which is a significant fire risk. It can damage your appliances and cause voltage drops that put your electronics at risk, too. You’ll also frequently trip your breakers. Fortunately, all of these issues are easily avoidable. Simply follow a few essential tips when it comes to your electrical system.
Make a Safety Plan
Don’t load a single circuit past 80% of its capacity. Most circuits have a rating of 15 or 20 amps. To find the average amperage for each of your light sets, look on the plug or tag. Add these amounts up to find the total amperage you’re using. You can spread your holiday lights out across different circuits to avoid overloading any one of them. Make sure you’re inspecting your lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs for added safety. Furthermore, connect the outdoor lights to a GFCI outlet.
Use Energy-Efficient Options
Use LED lights. They use substantially less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also generate less heat, which makes them safer. Best of all, they’re very durable. A good set of LED lights will last you for many holiday seasons to come. Battery-powered lights are an excellent option for illuminating areas without outlets, and they help reduce your overall electrical draw.
Use Lights Wisely
Take advantage of timers. They ensure that your lights are only operating when you need them. For example, you can set your timer to start at dusk and stay on for 6 hours. You’ll be able to enjoy your lights without keeping them on all night long. This saves energy in addition to reducing the strain on your circuits.
You also want to avoid connecting too many strings of lights. Instead, use a power strip that lets you plug in multiple sets independently. Look for one with surge protection, which provides you with an added layer of protection against voltage spikes. Don’t plug your lights into the same outlet as a major appliance, either. Items like your refrigerator, space heaters, and microwaves already draw a heavy power load.
Work solar-powered lights into your exterior light displays. Not only do they reduce your electrical usage and lighten the load on your circuits, but they also allow you to easily place lights further out in your yard.
You don’t have to give up the fun of illuminating your home for the holidays. Simply follow these tips. They’re easy to do and will save your electrical circuits. For additional help with your electrical lighting this year in Rochester, MN, call Paxton Electric.
