Get Those Christmas Lights Ready Now!
Preparing for the holiday season demands some planning, whether gifting, decorating, or baking. But when decorating with electric decorations and Christmas lighting, it’s important to make some preparations to make sure they’re done efficiently and safely. Here are some tips to help decorate for the holidays.
Incandescent Christmas Lights vs. LED Christmas Lights
There are many pros and cons of incandescent holiday lights and LED holiday lights. Most electricians recommend LED lights because they’re more efficient and last longer. However, here’s a side-by-side comparison so homeowners can make an informed decision:
- Heat: Incandescent lights generate more heat than LEDs, making LEDs safer. But incandescent lights often have a warmer glow.
- Cost-effectiveness: Sure, incandescent lights are cheaper at first to purchase. Yet, they don’t last as long as LED lights and use more energy. Because LEDs don’t need to be replaced as often and cost less to power, they are the more cost-effective option.
- Durability. LED lights are made of a protective material that protects them from easily shattering. The same cannot be said for incandescent Christmas lights.
Creating a Festive Holiday Display
Homeowners have a lot of options when choosing outdoor Christmas decorations and lights. Here are just a few:
- Holiday inflatables: These can come in various designs, from large Santas and snowmen to glowing reindeer.
- Net lighting: Net lights make adding holiday lights to bushes and foliage much easier. Tree wraps are also a type of net lighting used to quickly add lights to trees.
- Lighting strands: Classic string lights are perfect for outlining the roof and balconies of a home or wrapping around a Christmas tree. However, only lighting made for outdoor use should be used outdoors, and only lighting safe for indoor use on the tree should be used on Christmas trees.
Keep Electrical Safety in Mind
While having a bright, vibrant holiday display is excellent, keeping electrical safety at the forefront of everything is essential. Nobody wants to risk an electrical fire––especially around the holiday season. Per the Electrical Safety Foundation, some holiday electrical safety tips include:
- Inspecting electrical decorations and lighting for damage before using them
- Being careful not to overload any circuits and outlets
- Turning off and unplugging decorations before going to sleep or leaving the house
- Not connecting more than three strands of incandescent holiday lights
- Keeping lights and decor at least three feet from heat sources
Homeowners can also hire professional electricians to install their holiday lighting to ensure that all lighting is installed safely and to protect their homes and families.
About Trustworthy Electric
Trustworthy Electric is a family-owned and operated business serving Montgomery and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, on-time service, and customer education. Call them today for holiday light installation in Montgomery, AL.
