We love this time of year at Anchor Electric just like the next guy. The holidays are in full bloom and with Thanksgiving in the books, it’s time to start watching our favorite classic Christmas movies! One of our favorite movies and scenes involves the fiasco in “Christmas Vacation” when Clarke Griswold’s attempt to hang outside Christmas lights goes horribly wrong. Though this movie and scene are hilarious, electrical safety is not a laughing matter. So while attempting to hang the 100’s of bulbs to make sure the house reflects Christmas spirit, here are some safety tips to keep in mind.
Be sure to check that the cables that are used are rated for outdoor use. When buying decor, check to see if it is meant for inside or outdoor usage. Outdoor cables are sealed tighter and are weather-resistant whereas indoor ratings are not as secure. This is why it is important to always use the devices for what they are intended for. - When pulling decorations from the attic, be sure to check that none of the wires are frayed before installing them. Exposed wires outdoors are subject to water damage which could result in shock or fire hazards. If the wire is frayed, depending on the severity, it may need to be repaired or replaced immediately.
- Be mindful of how much power is used. Some consumers are still using incandescent lights to save on the upfront costs, but really this is costing money in the long run. LEDs are pricier to begin with, but use very little energy, saving money in the long run. This is also a great option to prevent the likelihood of something shorting out.
- Setting a timer is also a great way to cut costs and save energy. Make sure that the lights are turned off when sleeping or not home.
- If planning to decorate the house Griswold-style, Anchor Electric of Florida Inc recommends running a separate GFCI outlet. These outlets are installed where there is risk of electricity meeting water.
GFCIs have a “test” and “reset” button on the front and monitor the flow of energy. This helps prevent hazards such as electrical shock, fires, and damage to devices that are plugged into them. Installing separate GFCIs will provide the correct amount of amperage to not exceed the limits. Be sure to give us a call to help install the GFCI outlet to ensure that it is done correctly.
We hope you safely enjoy your holiday season!