Grounded Advice: Bright Ideas for a Safe and Cozy Winter
By Grant Gotlinger, Neighborhood Electrical Expert Winter is one of the busiest times of year for your home’s electrical system. From twinkling lights and space heaters to doorbell cameras and endless package deliveries, your circuits are working overtime. A little preparation can make all the difference in keeping your homensafe, bright, and worry-free all season long.Light the Season Safely
Holiday decorations bring joy, but they also bring risk if not used wisely. Before you hang a single strand of lights, check for frayed cords or loose bulbs. Use only outdoor-rated extension cords outside and plug lights into a ground-fault circuit interrupter outlet if possible. Avoid daisy-chaining multiple strands together, which can overload your circuit.LED lights are a smart upgrade. They use less power, last longer, and stay cooler to the
touch. If you want to make decorating easier, use smart plugs or timers to control when
your lights turn on and off automatically.
Stay Warm and Smart
Space heaters are handy, but they need extra attention. Place them at least three feet away from anything flammable and plug them directly into a wall outlet on a dedicated circuit to prevent overloading. Never use an extension cord or share the same circuit with other highdemand appliances.Winter is also the perfect time to make sure your circuit breakers are labeled correctly. If one trips, you’ll save time getting everything back on track. Before settling in for the season, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed to ensure they’re ready when it matters most.
Prepare for Power Outages
Ice, wind, and snow can strain the grid. Keep flashlights with fresh batteries in easy-to-reach spots and unplug sensitive electronics if the power flickers. Surge protectors are inexpensive insurance for your home office, TV, and appliances.If your home has a portable generator, test it before you need it. Always use it outdoors and away from doors or windows to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
Secure Your Deliveries
Package theft peaks during the holidays, but you can stay one step ahead. Motion-activated lighting near your front door or driveway helps deter unwanted visitors. A smart doorbell camera adds extra peace of mind.If you’ll be away, leave a few lights on timers and ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye out. Even small steps can make your home look lived in and keep deliveries safe.
A Neighborly Reminder
Your home should feel safe and inviting all year long. With a little planning and awareness, you can protect your family, your packages, and your peace of mind this winter. Stay warm, stay bright, and enjoy the season.
With offices in Ijamsville, MD & Linville, VA, Got Electric offers residential and commercial electric work, including installation, safety inspections, repairs, lighting design, and troubleshooting.
Got Electric also specializes in solar Energy Projects. Our electricians are fully licensed by state and local jurisdiction, ensuring that your electrical projects will be installed to industry and code standards.
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