Get Ready for a Spooktacular Halloween:
Safety and Savings Tips for Your Electrical Displays
As Halloween approaches, many people are preparing to illuminate the night with captivating and eerie displays. In 2022, Americans spent over $10.6 billion on Halloween-related expenses, which included not only candy and costumes but also decorations, such as lighting. This trend is expected to continue, with estimates suggesting that spending could reach $11.6 billion in 2024, averaging about $108 per person. That adds up to a significant number of haunted homes!
If your residence or business plans to join in on the frightening fun, here are essential safety and efficiency considerations to keep in mind:
Prioritize Safety
When it comes to electrical installations, safety must always come first.
1. Inspect Your Lighting: Ensure that all electrical cords are in good condition. Frayed or cracked wires pose serious fire hazards. Replace any burnt-out bulbs to prevent overheating in empty sockets.
2. Select Appropriate Lights: Use lights designed for their specific environment. Indoor lights are not suitable for outdoor use due to their lack of weather resistance, and outdoor lights can generate excess heat that makes them unsafe for indoor settings. Avoid running cords through water under any circumstances.
3. Avoid Overloading Circuits: To prevent tripped breakers, adhere to the guideline of using only 80% of your circuit’s Amp capacity. While a common recommendation is to connect no more than three strings of lights together, the exact number can vary depending on the type of lights and the circuit’s capacity. Utilize resources to determine the appropriate limits for your setup.
4. Hang Lights Securely: Avoid using staples or nails, as these can damage the protective coating on wires, increasing fire risk. Regularly check for wear caused by weather or wildlife, and take down decorations promptly to minimize exposure.
Enhance Visibility for Safety
Keep in mind that little trick-or-treaters will be out and about. Ensure walkways are clear and well-lit to provide safe passage for visitors. Address any blind spots that could pose risks to drivers and pedestrians.
Save on Energy Costs
No one wants to see a spike in their utility bill. Consider using energy-efficient lighting options such as CFLs, which last longer and consume less energy. While LED lights may have a higher initial cost, they offer significant energy savings and remain cool to the touch, allowing for more creative displays.
As Halloween and the holiday season approach, we wish you a festive and safe experience. Whether you’re creating your own dazzling displays or enjoying the creativity of others, may your celebrations be filled with delightful scares and surprises.