It’s the time of year for fun holiday displays, things that move and howl and sparkle – and plug into your home electrical systems. While the magic of the season is often tied to twinkling lights, inflatables, animated figures, and festive decorations, it’s important to remember that these holiday extras can put extra stress on your home’s wiring. As a homeowner, keeping electrical safety in mind ensures that your celebrations stay joyful and accident-free.
The Risks of Holiday Electrical Overload
The holidays often bring a surge in electricity usage. Multiple strands of lights, extension cords running across rooms, and outdoor decorations powered day and night can quickly add up. Overloading outlets or using outdated wiring increases the risk of electrical fires and power outages. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical distribution equipment is one of the leading causes of house fires during the holiday season.
The good news is that most of these risks can be avoided with proper precautions and safe habits.
Smart Tips for Holiday Electrical Safety
1. Inspect Your Lights and Decorations
Before plugging in that favorite string of lights you’ve had for years, take a moment to inspect them. Look for frayed wires, cracked sockets, or loose connections. If anything looks worn or damaged, replace it rather than risk a fire hazard. Modern LED holiday lights are safer and more energy-efficient than older incandescent bulbs, making them a great upgrade.
2. Don’t Overload Outlets or Circuits
It can be tempting to plug multiple decorations into one outlet using a power strip or extension cord. However, this can quickly overload a circuit, especially in older homes with limited wiring. A good rule of thumb is to keep each outlet to a reasonable load and avoid daisy-chaining multiple extension cords together. If you notice lights dimming when decorations turn on, that’s a sign you may be overloading the system.
3. Use Outdoor-Rated Equipment
If you’re decorating outdoors, make sure you’re using extension cords, light strands, and fixtures designed for exterior use. Indoor-rated products aren’t built to withstand moisture, cold, or fluctuating weather conditions. Always look for products labeled “UL-listed” (Underwriters Laboratories) for added assurance of safety.
4. Practice Safe Extension Cord Habits
Extension cords are often a necessity during the holidays, but they come with their own risks. Avoid running cords under rugs or through doorways where they can be pinched or damaged. Keep them away from areas with heavy foot traffic, and never attempt to modify a cord to make it fit an outlet. When possible, use shorter cords that match your needs rather than stretching one across a room.
5. Be Mindful of Water and Electricity
Whether it’s an outdoor display near sprinklers or a Christmas tree stand filled with water indoors, mixing moisture with electricity is dangerous. Keep all plugs, cords, and decorations well away from water sources. For outdoor displays, elevate connections off the ground and use protective covers designed for exterior outlets.
6. Turn Off Decorations at Night
As beautiful as holiday lights look at night, it’s safest to turn them off before going to bed or leaving the house. Using timers or smart plugs makes this easy and ensures decorations aren’t drawing power longer than necessary. This simple habit can significantly reduce fire risk.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, electrical concerns go beyond what you can safely handle as a homeowner. If your circuit breaker frequently trips, outlets feel warm to the touch, or you notice flickering lights when decorations are plugged in, these are signs that your system may need professional attention. Licensed electricians can help assess your home’s capacity, install additional circuits if needed, and recommend upgrades to handle seasonal demands safely.
The Benefits of an Electrical Safety Check
The holidays are a great time to schedule an electrical safety inspection. A professional electrician can ensure your system is up to code, identify hidden risks, and give you peace of mind before you plug in all your festive décor. An inspection can also highlight opportunities to make your home more energy-efficient, which is an added bonus during a season when utility bills often rise.
Enjoy the Season Safely
The holidays should be a time of warmth, joy, and connection—not worry over electrical hazards. By following a few simple precautions and knowing when to call in a professional, you can enjoy your holiday displays with confidence. Safe electrical practices not only protect your home but also ensure that the season shines brightly for your family and guests.
At Phase Electric, we’re here to help homeowners across the community keep their homes safe, efficient, and festive all year long. Whether you need a safety inspection, an outlet upgrade, or expert advice on handling your holiday power needs, our licensed electricians are ready to assist.
Contact Phase Electric today to schedule your electrical safety check and make this holiday season both merry and safe.
