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17 Holiday Lighting Safety Tips

Christmas is right around the corner but if you are thinking it is too late to put up Christmas lights, you are wrong. There is still time to make your days merrier with holiday lights. We have highlighted some holiday lighting safety tips so you can have a brighter and safer holiday.

This season is a time for joy, so do not let bad holiday light installation ruin your Christmas spirit. Revel in your light decorations while staying safe and warm. Keep on reading to learn about doing Christmas light installation safely.

1 – Watch the power lines

Keep your distance from overhead power lines when decorating outside your home. High-voltage power cables could be deadly. You do not ever want to accidentally touch them.

When decorating outside, keep your tools, Christmas lights, ornaments, and other decors away from power lines. You should also avoid hanging your light stings on trees that are near them.

2 – Switch to LED lights

Instead of using regular bulbs, why not consider energy-efficient lighting? They are an excellent alternative since they consume less energy and rarely overheat. Most LED lights also do not contain any toxic elements so they are so much safer to use, especially if you have kids or pets at home.

3 – Inspect your lights

Christmas light installation is a fun activity you can do with your family. But before making your home merrier and brighter, it is crucial to perform some precautionary measures.

Test the holiday lights before purchasing them. Look if there are any damaged bulbs. If you are using old ones, it is a smart decision to test if they are still in good condition before hanging them.

4 – Check the product reviews

Reviews and ratings say a lot about a product. If you are buying new Christmas lights, why not search the brand first. See the feedback of people who already used the item.

It is always good to read product reviews before paying for any type of Christmas decoration to avoid bringing home low-quality or hazardous items. It is highly recommended that you purchase electrical decorations only from reputable brands.

5 – Follow the fine print of the product

Read the product installation guide. Such a document exists to help consumers use the item properly and avoid it from causing harm. You do not really want your holiday decoration to ruin a happy moment.

Check the label that states the maximum wattage allowed and follow it. By reading the guide, you will learn if the Christmas light is safe to put on where you are planning to.

6 – Use a Holiday Light Timer

Turning your holiday lights off every now and then is important to prevent overheating its wiring. For this reason, you should have a light timer.

Generally, a light timer will not only cut down your electric bill but will also reduce the chances of accidentally setting your house on fire. Another advantage of installing a reliable timer is that you can have better control of the lighting system.

7 – Watch out for flammable materials

Be extra careful when hanging decorative lights that contain materials that can ignite easily. Keep in mind that Christmas lights can cause a fire since they’re made with wires where electricity passes through plastic materials that can easily burn.

8 – Plug in your lighting safely

A bad outlet can start a fire. Fix worn out sockets right away before plugging lights into it. You can purchase replacements in local hardware stores.

9 – Do not over decorate

When in doubt, do not over decorate. That is the rule of thumb when putting up holiday decorations. Christmas lights can bring holiday cheer, but hanging too much can be overwhelming. Instead of beautifying your home for the holiday, it might look crowded.

Plan ahead what you want and only put up what is needed so you can avoid dangerous circuit overload. Typically, you will only need less than 150 bulbs per vertical foot.

10 – Illuminate your home with the right voltage lighting

Landscape lighting can make your outdoor space look at its best after dark. It is often set up to make an area appealing especially when there is ice decor. Aside from that, it prevents intruders from trespassing your property.

When doing landscape lighting, use the right voltage bulbs. Check whether the voltage bulb matches the voltage supply. Do not use a very low one because it could affect their glow, and a very high voltage can make the bulbs explode.

11 – Take down your lights at the end of the season

It is highly recommended to remove your holiday lighting when the season is over. Bring them inside not only to avoid raking up your electric bill but also to prevent it from causing problems.

Once your electric decorations are brought back to the attic, you might even start feeling less anxious about having an accidental fire. Store them properly if you are planning on using them next year.

12 – Decorate professionally

If you are wondering how you can wrap Christmas tree lights professionally, the first thing you need to do is measure the tree. Measure the trunk or branches that you wish to cover with lights. And then, determine the spacing and the exact length of lights you need.

13 – Avoid using a staple gun when hanging the lights

A staple gun can tear the protective cover of the light’s strings and causes the wiring to be exposed. That really is unsafe and might cause electrocution. It can also damage the paint of your home and leave marks everywhere.

Instead, use adhesive tape which is so much easier to put or remove. Plus, it is safer to use. You can also try plastic clips which can be bought in local supplies stores.

14 – Consider where you are hanging the Christmas lights

You have a lot of options when putting up holiday lights. You can either hang it indoors or outdoors.

When decorating outdoors, use incandescent bulbs or decorative lights that are designed for the exterior. Make sure they are weather resistant and safer to use. Use an outdoor receptacle or protective cover when necessary.

On the other hand, indoor Christmas lights look good around a nativity scene or animated displays. It can make the decoration more alive and pleasing to the eyes. But be especially strategic when decorating indoors to avoid disasters from happening.

15 – Limit the number of lights plugged into your outlet

There is only so much electricity one outlet can handle. If you plug everything in the same source of electricity, there is a tendency that it will spark, tap the breaker, or worse, cause a house fire.

16 – Keep extension cords away

An extension cord is an essential item in the house. It is handy especially during the holiday season where decorations and lightings need to be plugged in. However, many people get injured from electric outlets lying around.

When using an extension cord, remember to keep it away from the reach of children or pets. Place it away from the walkways. But, do not run it inside the walls or ceilings because it might overheat. You should also place it far from water sources to avoid short-circuit.

17 – Stay away from metal materials

As much as possible, avoid attaching the Christmas lighting near or around a metal. There have been a lot of cases where people got electrocuted from lighting mistakes.

A decorated metal pole is one example. Keep in mind that metal conducts electricity, so if the lighting becomes faulty, it can make electricity travel through the metal and cause electric shock.

Have A Jolly And Safer Christmas

Holiday light installation is definitely a huge part of the Christmas celebration. To some families, it is a tradition that makes parents and children closer to one another. And who would not be captivated by the beautiful holiday decorations embellished with light strings everywhere?

Following the holiday lighting safety tips above will not only make heads turn but will also give you peace of mind knowing that you have done your Christmas light installation the right way.

How Risky is the Job of an Arvada Electrician

Being an electrician is considered as one of the most risky jobs in the world. They are often exposed to hazards and are more prone to acquire physical or fatal traumas when performing their work. Electricians in Arvada are no strangers to everyday risks. They encounter numerous daily challenges that could ruin their lives.

Without electricity, the economy will be crippled. That is why electricians are a vital part of society. They help keep the electricity going and ensure the public’s safety. Here are some risks they have to face in the workplace.

Exposure to hazards

Repairing electrical systems exposes a master electrician in Arvada to many dangers. Various electrical wiring scenarios might come up that could put their lives in jeopardy. They are more vulnerable to sickness and getting physically weak.

Electricians in Arvada do more than just basic electrical repairs. They ensure that the electrical system is properly designed. They carefully examine the wire connections and implement changes when necessary. Their job is not only stressful, but they are constantly faced with imminent risk.

Prone to electrocution

Wires or cords carry a high level of electricity that could be deadly. So, no matter how competent a person is when repairing electric wiring, following safety protocol is crucial to minimize risk of getting electrocuted.

Unfortunately, faulty wire connections happen all the time. It can trip the breaker and cause electrical fires that will not only endanger you and your family but also the rest of the community. For this reason, searching for an “electrician near to me,” may not always be the smartest thing to do. Instead, look for well-established electrical companies that have a proven track record.

Highly likely to suffer from physical injuries

Doing electrical repairs can be a physically strenuous activity. Electricians may experience physical traumas that could either have a short or long-term effect. Some of the most common injuries suffered by master electrician in Arvada that have short-term consequences are:

Electrical burns
Electric shocks that cause numbness or tingling
Headache or feeling disoriented

On the other hand, it is also not uncommon for electricians to suffer from long-term physical damages like:

Loss of vision
Brain damage
Loss of limb
Slow internal bleeding that can cause weakness, loss of appetite, and organ failure
Fractured bones
Could fall anytime

On a scale from sitting at a desk all day and feeling exhausted to getting electrical burns, how risky is the job of an Arvada electrician? We say: Suffering from brain damage.

Electricians are more likely to experience accidents that will have long-lasting injuries. Since they are working indoors and outdoors, and in high locations, there’s a huge chance that they could fall and sustain physical injuries due to:

Equipment malfunctioning
Ladders breaking
Unsafe environment
Ineffective safety measures

At risk of getting electric shock now and then

Electricians are at high risk of getting a shock hazard and for obvious reasons. A current is one of the primary elements of their job. Since they handle cables where electricity travels, it is common that minor and harmless electrical currents pass through the body which causes muscle pain and contractions.

Electric shock gives an unpleasant feeling, often painful, but more or less, tolerable. What’s frightening is getting in contact with greater currents that could potentially stop the heart and breathing.

Some physical effects of contacting live current includes:

Burns
Difficulty in breathing
Seizures
Getting dizzy, confused, and losing consciousness
Change in heart rate
Immediate cardiac arrest

How dangerous is being an electrician? Very. There are a lot of risks associated with this type of job, which is why it is considered as a hazardous profession. That said, electricians are required to undergo training to gain certification and license to perform electrical work.

But fear not! Tampering with the electrical wiring yourself may be risky, but there are professionals that could help you. There are ample benefits of hiring an electrician that has extensive experience. It takes away your worries and:

Resolve your electrical problems in the safest way possible
Save money on electrical work
Skip the stress and hassle
Avoid physical pains from using tools and exerting pressure
Know the job is being done by a professional who is well-aware of the safety work practices and city codes

You can also lower the risk of burning your property if you let the experts take care of the problem. If you are planning on hiring electricians in Arvada, do not hesitate to contact us. We are trained professionals who can provide solutions to your electrical emergencies.

Why You Should Hire An Electrician in Arvada

It is not always easy to determine when to hire an electrician, since there are instances where you might feel that the job can be done in 1-2-3 steps. But here’s one reason why hiring an electrician in Arvada, Colorado is the best option to take – safety first!

A competent electrician has the required skills and understanding of electrical elements to get the job done. If you’re still not sure that hiring an Arvada electrician is a good plan of action, here are some reasons that will make you change your mind.

Certification and licensing

There are many benefits to hiring a master electrician in Arvada. First of all, most states including Colorado require professional electricians to have certification and license to perform electrical contractor work. They can easily pinpoint electrical issues and tackle complicated electrical problems using the best possible solutions. And because of that, you know that they can deliver top-notch service.

Physically demanding

Doing electrical work is physically demanding which means it is accompanied by stress, muscle pain, fatigue, or physical injuries. There’s a lot of climbing ladders and working in cramped spaces happening when repairing electrical wiring. Consequently, you are exposed to hazards and are more prone to getting injured.

It is a known fact that approaching an electrical problem involves manual work that comes with its own physical impacts. Some risks include:

Fatal and non-fatal electrical shocks
Burn injuries from direct contact with current
Physical injuries from performing cable connections in high locations or underground
Fall injuries from standing or leaning on an unstable surface or structure
Non-fatal injuries from operating a tool, working on narrow spaces, or continuous use of force or pressure

Allowing the electricians who have a long-standing career will eliminate all your worries because they are trained and equipped with abundant information to face these kinds of risks.

Know the city codes

A skilled electrician in Arvada, Colorado will deliver exceptional service. They have the necessary experience to finish the job efficiently and thereby, help you save money on electrical work. Plus, they know the ins-and-outs of the area, including construction and electrical codes such as sealing or concealing electrical wirings.

Many electrical repairs may seem easy to do and not require the skills provided by electrical companies. However, what you think you’ve resolved now could turn into something more dangerous in the future. Performing electrical repairs without having the proper training and skills could lead to more costly damage to your property.

For example, a large main switch is used to supply power to every medium and large facility. However, there are different kinds of bolted pressure switches that operate in different manners. So, if you are unaware of what you have and how to deal with it, it is imperative to call for professional assistance.

Safety first!

Tampering with electrical systems can be dangerous. If something goes wrong, you could end up with a costly fix or worse, sustain physical injuries. That being said, one of the biggest reasons to hire an Arvada electrician is to ensure safety compliance is the top priority.

Seasoned electricians are experts when it comes to safety protocols. When you hire a master electrician in Arvada, you can rest assured that they have the experience and training to assess and troubleshoot any electrical-related problems thoroughly.

When you encounter electrical emergencies, it is smarter to call the professionals who have extensive experience in dealing with various electrical issues like:

Outdated cords and outlets
Overloaded power
Faulty breaker
Degraded electrical panel
Improperly designed electric system
Incorrect connection of cords
Deteriorated wire covers

Professional electricians know the safety procedures, especially the measures to take when unexpected challenges arise. They can handle equipment properly, hence reducing the risk of electric shocks, fires, or explosions. Besides, one of the best benefits of hiring an electrician is you can relax and feel safe. In other words, they can deliver above and beyond your expectation.

Electrical wirings consist of a complex network of cables that are connected to your property and to other residential or commercial buildings. That said, poor electrical wiring could trigger serious damage to the whole community.

Some hazards include:

Overheated cords caused by lack of heat dissipation system
Pinched or pierced wires that could trip the breaker, spark, or cause short circuits
Loose or incorrect wire connections that will either trip the breaker, cause a fire or explosion

Do not take the DIY route when approaching your electrical system. Let the trained professionals handle the job, so you know that it’s done correctly the first time. It will not only save you going through more expensive troubles, but it could very well save your life too.

Fiddling with the electrical system without the assistance of a professional could create more problems than solutions. If you’re asking “can I do my own electrical work?,” the short answer is: Yes. But should you? Remember that there are many vital factors involved with setting up electrical loops and finding solutions to the problems that may arise.

Sold already? If you are planning on hiring an electrician in Arvada, Colorado, give us a call. We will help resolve your electrical problems in the safest way possible, so you can focus on your daily life.

Security Lighting Installation for Your Home

Crimes are proliferating everywhere. To combat the threats and reduce potential risks, in this digital age, more and more people have acknowledged the need to invest in security devices such as surveillance cameras, a reliable home security system, sensors, and alarms at homes and other establishments. However, what is usually forgotten and neglected is that proper security lighting is also essential to deter possible wrongdoings. For instance, with the right security lights installed on strategic corners, even crimes as petty as vandalism can significantly decrease.

Investing in the correct kind of lighting…

Security lighting plays a vital role but for it to be effective and helpful in witnessing or deterring a crime situation, it must only produce adequate glare, enough in such a way that the glare will not hinder a clear sight. On that note, experts discourage the use of unshielded, bright floodlights as these can also draw people’s sights away while helping the criminals see at the same time.

Also, the design of security lighting and the strategic location where it is to be installed both need to be thoroughly considered. As to the type of lighting, aside from the installation, you can ask your trusted licensed electrician about a range of great lighting options. This will most likely include LED lights, photocells, solar-powered, and motion sensors.

As per the experts, .05 watts per square foot is what each lighting should be able to cater. Aside from photocells, PIR or Passive Infrared Sensors are likewise recommended as they are ace at detecting any energy produced by living objects without necessarily giving off energy. Among the potential types, motion sensors and low-level lights are considered to be the best option as they can aid in visibility without overwhelming the bad elements.

Style and Finish

Nowadays, there are lots of great styles and finishes you can choose from when it comes to security lighting and they can help you retain your house’s color and style while making it secured. Your licensed electrician in Denver can even help you integrate your lighting into your smart home system along with your surveillance cameras and other security devices.

Sight Conditions

The conditions of your security lighting’s visibility will vary depending on the amount of traffic, your property layout and its surrounding elements, and your neighborhood. So, upon deciding on having it installed, you will also want to consider between getting a battery-powered, line voltage, solar, hardwired, or a plug-in installation.

Security Purposes

A lot of people have mistaken security lighting as a vital layer in a security system but the truth is, the lighting only plays as a support that will help enhance the property’s view and ambiance at night. Moreover, it helps support dusk-to-dawn safety.

When installing security lighting, homeowners are challenged with positioning the lighting properly. The goal is to enhance visibility in a discrete, yet effective way that won’t annoy the neighbors and not violate any potential homeowners’ association (HOA) rules. But with the right electrical service company, these concerns will be dealt with accordingly.

A professional Denver electrician can help!

Sometimes, the answer to your security problems is not an upgrade but just a proper and well-considered security lighting installation. This is something you are going to need the experts for. Guess what? ElectriCall can help!

For a premium quality outdoor lighting service in Denver and all your electrical system repair and upgrade needs, do not hesitate to call us. Here at ElectriCall, you can be sure that your home security lighting installation will be carefully planned and carried out.

Have our seasoned team come to your rescue and deal with your problems with quality and reliability. After all, we are the leading electrical service company in and around Denver, Colorado for a reason.

How Landscape Lighting Can Improve Your Life

Ever since 2009, homeowners have been investing in the growing trend of outdoor living. the kitchen, living room and even inside activities are enhanced in outdoor spaces. The new drift on outdoor living has also made landscape lighting more appealing.

Landscape lighting can truly make any outdoor property appealing and it also comes with security benefits. If you’re wondering if outdoor lighting is best for your house check this out. We’ll give you reasons to give your outdoor space an illuminating change.

1. Effective way to secure your property

We know that burglars often attack at night when no one can see them, you can ensure safety by using landscape lighting in dark areas. A well-lit and maintained outdoor area is often an indication that you take security seriously and thieves will think twice before going into your space.

If you’re worried about increasing the electric bill, you can use motion light sensors that will only turn on if it senses any motion around it. These kinds of light sensors will serve as a bad surprise for any trespassers. There are also outdoor lighting systems that automatically turn on when it’s dark or at a specific time.

2. Magnifies curb appeal

Whenever you upgrade in and out of your house, its property value increases. A lot of house buyers will often visit the property they are eyeing on at night to see how it looks. If your property has good landscape lighting it increases the curb appeal and value.

If you invest in a company that offers quality outdoor lighting service, they will know where to put lights that will highlight the structures of your house. It will also give emphasis on the overall architectural design of your house that often catches the attention of possible buyers.

3. Makes the outdoor living space lively

If you’re the type to host parties every weekend, you can easily extend the celebration outdoors with the help of great landscape lighting. A well-lighted outdoor living space automatically sets the ambiance for your guests.

The landscape lighting can also serve as a conversational piece between your guests. While it highlights the overall structure of the house, it can also be used to accentuate decorations or pieces in your outdoor area.

Outdoor lighting will also benefit you and your family. The lighting provides a relaxing atmosphere where you can quietly sip coffee or have a romantic dinner with your partner while your kids are playing.

4. There are different options to choose from

Depending on how you want to light your outdoor spaces, you can choose from the traditional high-powered lights or the ones with low-voltage. The first one may not be a good idea if your house is near your neighbors. The high floodlights are best used in large areas such as a football stadium that needs every space illuminated.

If you don’t want neighbors complaining, go for landscape lighting that uses low-voltage requirements. This kind of outdoor lighting mirrors as a security feature for your house since it can be placed around your property. Also, you as the owner of the property are given enough control on how and what areas are lighted.

The good thing about landscape lighting is that you can have it adjusted to your personality. You can choose from a wide variety of shapes and even designs. You can also have it matching the architectural structure of your house. From a functional design with an aesthetic value, landscape lighting will surely add beauty to your outdoor space.

5. Enhances safety for everybody

Outdoor lighting is not just meant to deter trespassers it also helps keep your family and friends safe while walking on pathways or driveways. Some of your guests are not familiar with your pathway especially during nighttime so landscape lighting really helps.

Imagine not having lights near the stairs or uneven walkways and one of your guests encountered an accident just because the area was not well-lighted. You can easily avoid this misfortune by strategically placing the lights on places people can see where they’re walking. You can put the lights on areas that people frequent on like pools, patios, and decks.

Keep in mind that your home is always a source of pride and if there are ways for you to continue improving its structure, you should invest in it. If you live around the area, we can recommend a great Jefferson County electrician, such as ElectriCall that can help you with installing landscape lighting for your property.

17 Holiday Lighting Safety Tips

How Risky is the Job of an Arvada Electrician

Why You Should Hire An Electrician in Arvada

Security Lighting Installation for Your Home

How Landscape Lighting Can Improve Your Life

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