As the holiday season approaches, Colorado homeowners are getting ready to bring cheer and warmth to their neighborhoods with festive lights. From the classic twinkling icicles to bold, colorful displays, holiday lighting can transform a home—but it also requires preparation to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity. Here are essential tips from your local Colorado electrician on how to get your home holiday-ready.
1. Plan Your Display in Advance
Begin by envisioning the layout of your lighting setup. Consider the key areas to highlight, such as the roofline, trees, shrubs, pathways, and outdoor structures. Measure these areas to determine how much lighting you need, which can help you avoid buying excessive lights or making unnecessary trips to the store. Think about your color scheme, lighting patterns, and whether you’d like to incorporate animated elements or smart lighting features.
2. Choose the Right Lights for Colorado’s Climate
Colorado’s winter weather can be harsh, so select lights rated for outdoor use and suited for cold, snowy conditions. LED lights are an excellent choice as they are energy-efficient, durable, and operate well in cold temperatures. Look for lights labeled “UL-rated for outdoor use,” which ensures they meet safety standards for exterior environments.
3. Check and Update Your Outlets
Inspect your outdoor outlets and make sure they are in good working condition. If your outlets are outdated or there aren’t enough to support your lighting display, consider hiring an electrician to install additional outdoor-rated GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets. These outlets are essential for safety in wet or snowy conditions, as they prevent electrical shocks and protect your home from potential hazards.
4. Upgrade Your Extension Cords and Timers
High-quality, heavy-duty extension cords are necessary for any outdoor holiday display. Choose cords rated for outdoor use and be sure they’re long enough to safely reach outlets without stretching. Using automatic timers can be a lifesaver, too. Timers allow you to set specific lighting hours, which can save energy and prevent overloading circuits.
5. Evaluate Your Electrical Panel Capacity
The holiday season often brings increased electricity use, so it’s wise to review your electrical panel capacity to ensure it can handle the added load of holiday lights. If your panel is outdated or running near capacity, consider consulting a licensed electrician like CIES to determine if an upgrade is necessary to avoid tripped breakers and potential fire hazards.
6. Inspect and Test Lights Before Installation
Before you start hanging lights, plug them in to check for damaged wires, burnt-out bulbs, or loose connections. Any damaged lights should be replaced or repaired to avoid potential electrical hazards. For multistrand lights, it’s helpful to test each strand individually before connecting them to avoid troubleshooting in cold or snowy conditions.
7. Install With Safety in Mind
When hanging lights, prioritize safety by using secure clips and hangers instead of nails or staples, which can damage wires and create shock hazards. If you’re using ladders, ensure they’re sturdy and placed on level ground, and always have a spotter. For high or challenging installations, consider hiring a professional to handle the job safely and effectively.
8. Schedule a Pre-Season Electrical Inspection
If your holiday lighting plans are ambitious, scheduling a pre-season electrical inspection with a local electrician is highly recommended. We can identify potential issues before they disrupt your display and provide valuable recommendations for a safe, efficient lighting setup.
9. Practice Sustainable Lighting Habits
Lastly, consider sustainable lighting habits. LEDs are not only safer and longer-lasting but also use less energy, which can lower your energy bill during the holiday season. Additionally, setting your lights on a timer for a few hours each night is more eco-friendly and cost-effective than leaving them on continuously.
With the right preparation, your home can shine brightly and safely all holiday season long! For any questions or assistance with electrical inspections, panel upgrades, or additional outlet installations, reach out to your trusted Colorado Electrician, CIES. Enjoy a joyful, illuminated holiday with peace of mind, knowing your lighting setup is both beautiful and safe!
