How to Prevent Electrical Problems During the Holidays
The holiday season refers to the season starting just after Thanksgiving. Now, in anticipation of the season, many people start celebrating the holiday season starting at Halloween. With the change in the weather, there is excitement in the air, and people start going outside and hanging festive Halloween decorations and holiday lighting.
That means that the electrical safety season starts early, too. Electrical problems seem to cluster around the holiday season when people load the home’s power grid up with decorations. But that phenomenon can begin in October with all the Halloween decor. To avoid electrical problems during Halloween and the upcoming holiday season, take a few tips from electricians to keep the home safe.
Take Care of Holiday Lighting and Electric Decorations
Once a holiday is over, people put the holiday lights and decorations away, often cramming them in a box and then in storage. This rough handling can cause problems for lighting and decor, so before using any holiday decorations or lights, always take the time to:
- Inspect the cords and wiring for damage or fraying
- Don’t use nails, staples, or other sharp things to hang lighting or electrical decor
- Check for broken bulbs and damage to lights
If any damage is found, those decorations should not be used. Taking a few extra moments to do these things before hanging and turning on Halloween decor and lights can ensure they are safe to use and don’t present an electrical hazard.
Never Overload a Circuit
One of the most common electrical problems during Halloween and holidays, when decorating is expected, is overloading circuits. Each outlet and circuit in a home is only designed to handle a certain amount of power demand. When this level is exceeded, it can cause breakers to trip, fuses to blow, or wiring to overheat.
The best way to prevent these complications and keep the home safe is to spread the electricity draw to multiple outlets and circuits. Additionally, if homeowners use extension cords for decorating, they should avoid overloading them and never chain them together. Also, upgrading holiday lighting to energy-efficient options like LED lights can reduce the chance of overloads.
When Is Electrical Repair Needed?
There may be times when decorating that homeowners notice signs electrical repair is needed because they are paying more attention to their electrical system. Once any symptoms of electrical issues are detected, an electrician should be called for electrical repair immediately to protect the home from electrical fires and other hazards. Some of the signs that people need electrical repairs are:
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Outlets that don’t work or appear damaged
- Sparks or shocks from outlets
- Outlets that feel hot to the touch
- Tripped breakers or blown fuses
- Frayed wiring
- Buzzing sounds
- Burning smells
About Trustworthy Electric
Trustworthy Electric has more than 25 years of expertise serving Montgomery and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, on-time service, and a beneficial membership plan. Call them today for electrical repairs in Montgomery, AL.
