Lovely LED Lighting that Lacks Lethality
A hallmark of the holiday season is the decour. Festive, flickering lights are cozy and welcoming. And with LED bulbs becoming the string light standard, holiday lights are safer than ever. However, even some homes covered in low voltage LEDs may enjoy cheap electricity bills, light safety is important. In fact, holiday decorations start over 800 home fires a year! So, let’s review some holiday lighting safety tips, as well as how to find the best energy supplier this season.
Lighting Tip 1: Inspection
First things first, make sure your lights and cords are in good shape! When stored and used correctly, LED lights can last 40 holiday seasons or more. But this requires an inspection. Check for broken or missing bulbs, frayed wires, damaged cord, or cracked sockets. Damaged lights and wires can cause electric shock when plugged in, or even an electrical fire. So replace any string lights that you cannot repair.
Lighting Tip 2: Outdoor Safety
Electrical accidents outdoors tend to kill the mood. So, only use lights and extension cords marked for outdoor use with outdoor displays. Outdoor lights and cords have thicker, sturdier insulation designed to withstand the elements. Additionally, outdoor cords usually have three-prong plugs (grounded) for safety, reducing shock and fire risk.
Lighting Tip 3: Avoid Circuit Overload
LED mini string lights use around 5 to 10 watts of power. Which means theoretically, you could put hundreds on a circuit before you trip a breaker! However, to stay safe, we recommend following the box instructions for connecting lights together.
It’s also highly recommended that you make sure any outlets you’re using have a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). GFCI’s help prevent electrocution by tripping off the power if it senses a short circuit. Also, if you notice lights flickering, outlets becoming hot, or other signs of circuit overload then turn the power off at the breaker.
Lighting Tip 4: Time Your Holiday Usage
It can be tempting to leave your holiday lights up and on 24/7. After all, they’re efficient and pretty! However, even LED lights should be turned off when you’re sleeping or not at home. Keeping lights on for an extended period of time can even cause LED strings to dangerously heat up. You can find both manual and smart timers on the market that can be attached to outlets or extension cords. Setting a timer can keep your home safe and save money on your PA electricity.
Lighting Tip 4: Light Your Home for Less This Holiday
With PTC rates climbing this winter, your electricity bill might not be bringing the holiday cheer. But if you want to save, you can lock in a low rate for the year to come. And we’re here to make shopping for an electricity provider easy! Read reviews, compare providers, and more! Visit https://www.paenergyratings.com