The holidays are a time for cheer, warm lights, and cozy gatherings—but they’re also a time when electrical systems get pushed to their limits. Between twinkling light displays, space heaters, cooking appliances, and a house full of guests, your home’s wiring may be working harder than it should. At Albritton Service Company, we’ve seen just how quickly festive setups can lead to blown fuses, tripped breakers, and even fire hazards if the proper precautions aren’t taken.
If you’re preparing for the season, now is the perfect time to brush up on holiday electrical safety in Ruston LA so you can enjoy the lights and warmth without any unexpected (or dangerous) surprises.
Why Electrical Safety Is Especially Important During the Holidays
During the holiday season, the average home sees a dramatic increase in energy use. This might include:
- Plugging in multiple strands of holiday lights
- Running space heaters in colder areas of the house
- Using electric blankets, candles, or extension cords
- Cooking for extended periods with ovens, stovetops, and small appliances
- Charging more devices due to out-of-town guests
All of this can lead to overloaded outlets, overheated wiring, and higher fire risks. In fact, the U.S. Fire Administration reports that nearly half of all home fires in December are related to electrical malfunction or heating equipment.
Knowing how to protect your home can help you avoid these dangers and keep the holidays merry and bright.
Top Tips to Prevent Overloaded Circuits
Overloaded circuits are one of the most common issues we see during the holidays. Here’s how to avoid them:
Limit the Number of High-Energy Devices Per Outlet
Avoid plugging multiple appliances into the same outlet—especially those that draw a lot of power, like space heaters, slow cookers, or air fryers. If multiple items are on the same circuit and exceed the capacity, the breaker will trip—or worse, the wires could overheat.
Use Surge-Protected Power Strips
If you need more plug space, use a power strip with built-in surge protection. This helps regulate the electrical flow and can prevent damage to your lights, electronics, or appliances in case of a power spike.
Don’t Daisy-Chain Extension Cords
It’s tempting to connect multiple extension cords to reach that perfect corner for your Christmas tree—but this can cause dangerous overheating. Instead, use one long, properly rated extension cord or rearrange your décor to stay close to outlets.
Check for Signs of Circuit Strain
If you notice flickering lights, buzzing outlets, warm wall plates, or breakers that trip repeatedly, these are red flags. Stop using the outlet immediately and call an electrician to investigate. Our licensed professionals at Albritton Service Company can safely diagnose and correct the issue.
Safe Lighting Tips for Indoor and Outdoor Decorations
Holiday lights are beautiful, but they can also be one of the biggest electrical hazards if not used properly. Keep these safety tips in mind when setting up your seasonal décor:
- Inspect all light strands: Before plugging anything in, check for frayed wires, cracked bulbs, or loose connections. Damaged light strands should be replaced, not repaired.
- Follow manufacturer instructions: Every light strand comes with a rating on how many you can safely connect together—usually no more than three to five. Exceeding this can overload the circuit and cause overheating.
- Use outdoor-rated products outside: Only use extension cords and lights marked for outdoor use when decorating exterior areas. Indoor-rated products are not weatherproof and could become hazardous when exposed to moisture.
- Turn off lights before bed: Use a timer or smart plug to automatically turn off lights during overnight hours. Not only does this conserve energy, but it also reduces fire risk while you sleep.
- Don’t run cords under rugs or doors: Extension cords under rugs can become warm and wear down more quickly. Pinched cords under doors or furniture can also lead to broken insulation and exposed wires.
Holiday Safety Tips for Guests and Gatherings
Holiday hosting adds extra pressure on your home’s electrical system. Here’s how to prepare for extra people and power usage:
- Spread out usage across multiple circuits: If you’re cooking in the kitchen, try not to run the space heater or use the hair dryer on the same circuit at the same time. Spreading energy use throughout the house helps reduce the chance of overloads.
- Use GFCI-protected outlets in kitchens and bathrooms: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are essential in areas with water. If your bathrooms or kitchen still have standard outlets, schedule an upgrade for added protection.
- Keep an eye on older wiring: Older homes in Ruston may not be equipped to handle today’s electrical demands. If your home is 30+ years old, consider having a professional inspection before the holidays to ensure everything is safe and up to code.
When to Call a Professional
Some electrical issues are easy to prevent—but others require expert attention. Contact a licensed electrician if you notice:
- Frequent breaker trips
- Burning smells near outlets
- Lights that dim when appliances turn on
- Buzzing sounds from outlets or panels
- Warm or discolored outlet covers
These may indicate serious problems like faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or a failing breaker panel. At Albritton, we offer expert electrical repair and upgrades to keep your home running safely year-round. Learn more about our full range of electrical services in Ruston.
Let Albritton Help Keep Your Holidays Safe
At Albritton Service Company, we understand that safety is just as important as comfort—especially during the busy holiday season. Our experienced electricians are here to help with inspections, circuit upgrades, outlet installations, and any other concerns you may have about your electrical system.
Whether you’re decorating your home, hosting holiday guests, or simply trying to avoid tripped breakers, you can count on our team for trusted service in Ruston and surrounding areas.
Call 318-251-0885 or visit www.albrittonservice.com to schedule your electrical service today and stay safe, bright, and worry-free this holiday season.
Stay Safe with Holiday Electrical Safety in Ruston LA
Don’t let a preventable electrical issue put a damper on your holiday celebrations. With the right precautions and the support of a qualified local electrician, you can enjoy the lights, the warmth, and the joy of the season—without the stress.
For expert help with holiday electrical safety in Ruston LA, turn to Albritton Service Company. We’ll make sure your home is ready to handle the most festive time of year with confidence.
