Holiday Decorating Mistakes That Can Lead to Electrical Problems
The holiday season brings festive cheer, cozy gatherings, and plenty of decorating. But with the added lights, cords, and electrical displays, this is also the time of year when Connecticut homeowners face an increased risk of home electrical hazards. Seasonal décor can strain your electrical system if not used safely, creating risks that are often overlooked.
At Patnode Electric, we’re committed to helping you enjoy the holidays while keeping your home safe, warm, and powered. Below are the top electrical hazards during holiday decorating and practical steps to reduce risks:
1. Overloaded Outlets and Circuits
Plugging multiple light strands or inflatables into a single outlet is one of the leading causes of holiday electrical issues. An overloaded outlet can overheat, trip breakers, or increase the risk of an electrical fire.
Ways to Maintain Safe Electrical Load:
- Use power strips with built-in surge protection.
- Distribute holiday lighting across several outlets and circuits.
- If a circuit trips repeatedly, schedule an electrical inspection to ensure your home can safely support your holiday décor.
2. Damaged or Worn Holiday Light Strings
Old or heavily used lights may have cracked insulation, exposed wiring, or loose bulbs. These problems can create sparks, shock hazards, or heat buildup.
Electrical Safety Tips for Holiday Lighting:
- Replace any light strands with frayed wires or broken sockets.
- Choose LED holiday lights, which use less energy and stay cooler.
- Make sure your lights carry proper indoor or outdoor safety ratings.
3. Using Indoor Lights Outdoors
Indoor-rated lights are not designed for snow, ice, or moisture. Using them outside increases the risk of shorts, shocks, or equipment failure.
How to Ensure Safe Outdoor Holiday Decorating:
- Only use lights and extension cords labeled for outdoor use.
- Plug exterior décor into a GFCI-protected outlet.
- Inspect outdoor wiring regularly for moisture or damage.
4. Placing Cords Where They Can Be Damaged
Running cords under rugs, across walkways, or through windows and doors can cause overheating or fraying. These placement issues can also create tripping hazards.
Ways to Protect Cords and Reduce Tripping Hazards:
- Keep cords visible and clear of foot traffic.
- Use cord clips or covers designed for holiday décor.
- Never staple or nail cords, as it can puncture the insulation.
5. Unsafe or Improper Extension Cord Use
Extension cords are helpful but often misused during holiday decorating. Overloading a cord or choosing one with the wrong rating can create serious electrical problems.
Safe Extension Cord Practices:
- Match the extension cord’s rating to your décor’s electrical demands.
- Use outdoor-rated cords for exterior decorations.
- Avoid running cords through tight spaces where they can be pinched or damaged.
6. Leaving Decorations Plugged In Unattended
Holiday lights may feel harmless, but leaving them on overnight or while away from home increases electrical fire risks, especially if wiring becomes overheated.
Tips for Safe, Energy-Efficient Decorating:
- Turn off lights and décor before going to bed or leaving the house.
- Use programmable timers or smart plugs to automate safe usage.
- Inspect lights throughout the season for signs of wear.
7. Decorations Positioned Near Flammable Materials
Lights that generate heat, or cords that fail, can ignite dry trees, paper decorations, curtains, or other combustible materials.
Ways to Reduce Fire Risk Around Holiday Decorations:
- Keep electrical décor several feet away from flammable items.
- Water live trees regularly to prevent dryness.
- Avoid connecting multiple high-heat decorations to a single outlet.
8. Unsafe Ladder Use Near Electrical Sources
Outdoor decorating often requires ladders, but working near electrical lines or using a metal ladder greatly increases shock risks.
Ways to Ensure Safe Ladder Usage Around Electricity:
- Use a non-conductive fiberglass ladder.
- Stay aware of overhead wires when hanging outdoor lights.
- For hard-to-reach areas, consider hiring a licensed CT electrician.
Holiday Decorating Safety Starts With a Safe Electrical System
Holiday decorating should be fun, festive, and stress-free. Taking a few simple steps to ensure electrical safety can help protect your home and family all season long.
If you're unsure whether your electrical system is prepared for holiday lighting, or you’re experiencing tripped breakers, flickering lights, or outlet issues, Patnode Electric is here to help. Our licensed electricians provide electrical repairs, outlet upgrades, and full-system evaluations to keep Connecticut homes safe year-round.
Contact Patnode Electric today to schedule an electrical safety inspection or service visit: 860-429-3574
