December 12, 2022
How to safely get in the holiday spirit this season
One of the best parts of the holiday season is admiring all of the lights and decor people put up to celebrate. As you decorate your home, stay aware of your holiday electric use. Using too many electrical resources could cause problems and possible damage or harm
We want your family to enjoy the holidays without risk. For all your home safety concerns in the Denver, Boulder and Longmont areas, especially around electrical use, call Applewood for expert advice.
10 Holiday Safety Tips
Here are 10 safety and energy-saving tips to keep in mind as you put up your holiday decorations this season:
1. Unplug While Gone
The holiday season is a time for travel and holiday parties. During these months, unplug your holiday lights as a safety precaution while you’re gone. This also helps save energy.
2. Give Green Gifts
Holidays are a fun time to give people the electronics they want. Look for gifts that are energy efficient and products that can use rechargeable batteries. They may cost you more initially but benefit you in the long run because they’re a one-time purchase.
3. Keep Warm without The Heat
If you frequently host holiday get-togethers rather than travel, use that to your advantage. Large groups of people in your home may mean you can lower your thermostat. Turning your heat down even one degree can lower the cost of your heating bill by 3%. The more, the merrier!
4. Use LED Lights
LED lights are more efficient because they only use 10% of the energy regular bulbs use. These durable lights will also last longer to save you more money over many holiday seasons.
5. Inspect Your Holiday Decor
Before you deck the halls, look for fragmented or frayed lights. Make sure each socket has a bulb and that light strands don’t have exposed wire.
6. Water Your Christmas Tree
Winter means dry conditions. Watering your tree keeps it hydrated and minimizes fire hazards. We suggest you keep two inches of water at the trunk while it’s decorated and only use tap water with nothing else added to it.
7. Avoid Nails When Hanging Lights
Hammering nails into strings of lights when hanging them outside can cause the coating to fray and expose the wires. Use plastic clips to safely attach your decor.
8. Use A Timer for Your Holiday Lights
Put lights on a timer to ensure energy efficiency and safety. You’ll also reduce the risk of overheating and potential fire.
9. Keep Indoor Lights Away from Drapes, Carpet and Furniture
Lights should stand alone to prevent a fire in your home. The most important thing to keep them away from is fabric. Male sure your light strands are firmly held so they don’t move or become a fire hazard.
10. Use Lights Tested by Nationally Recognized Labs
UL tests electronics to keep consumers safe when decorating for the holidays. Making sure your lights are UL-certified helps prevent the chance of fires and other potential dangers to your home.
Your Electrical Safety Experts
If you need extra outdoor GFCI outlets, new circuits or increased output in your home, schedule with Applewood today. We can assess your current system and make sure it’s sufficient for your needs. We’re experts at keeping your power supply up with your demand, and doing it safely. Make that holiday display risk-free!