Holiday Lighting Safety and Energy Efficiency

The holiday season is a magical time when twinkling strands adorn trees and rooftops. Especially during the holidays, it is essential to prioritize both safety and energy efficiency.

Here are six tips to ensure your holiday lighting is safe, environmentally friendly, and energy efficient.

1. Mindful Selection of Outdoor Lights
   When selecting lights for outdoor displays, ensure they are designed for outdoor use. These lights are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring longevity and safety. Look for labels indicating "weather-resistant" or "outdoor-safe" to ensure you choose the right lights for your exterior decorations.
2. Inspect Lights Thoroughly
   Before installing your lights, conduct a thorough inspection to identify any damaged cords, frayed wires, or broken bulbs. Damaged components can pose electrical and fire hazards. Discard any lights that show signs of wear and tear and replace them with new ones. It's better to be safe than sorry.
3. Practice Safe Installation
   Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords. Use outdoor-rated extension cords and surge protectors, and keep all connections elevated to prevent water from meeting electrical components. NEVER staple or nail lights in place, as this can damage wires and insulation.
4. Timers and Smart Controls
   Consider using timers or smart plugs to control your holiday lights to be energy efficient. You can avoid unnecessary energy consumption during daylight hours and late nights by setting specific operating hours. Smart plugs allow you to remotely control your lights using a smartphone app, giving you flexibility and control over your lighting display.
5. Opt for Solar-Powered Decorations
   Embrace renewable energy with solar-powered decorations. Solar lights charge during the day and illuminate your outdoor space at night, eliminating the need for electricity. These lights are energy-efficient and offer a unique and eco-friendly touch to your decor.
6. Unplug When Not in Use
   Unplugging all lights and decorations when not in use helps conserve energy and reduce your utility bills.

With these tips in mind, you can illuminate safely and save!