Remember these safety tips for your commercial seasonal lights.
Seasonal lighting adds charm and festive appeal to commercial properties, attracting customers and creating a welcoming atmosphere. However, improper handling of these lights can lead to electrical hazards that compromise safety and cause costly damages. Here are essential electrical safety tips from CMI Lighting to keep your commercial seasonal lighting safe, efficient, and worry-free. Call your commercial electrician at CMI Companies if you are concerned about your electrical safety.
Choose Commercial-Grade Lights
Not all lights are created equal. When decorating your business, invest in high-quality, commercial-grade lights designed to handle the demands of prolonged use and exposure to the elements. These lights are built to withstand wear and tear, ensuring greater safety and a longer lifespan compared to residential lights.
Inspect Lights and Cords Before Use
Before installing seasonal lights, inspect each strand carefully. Look for frayed wires, cracked sockets, or loose connections, as these can increase the risk of electrical fires. If you find any damage, replace the affected items immediately rather than attempting to repair them. A minor fault in the wiring can lead to significant hazards when left unaddressed.
Use GFCI-Protected Outlets
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are a must for powering outdoor lights and decorations. These outlets protect against electrical shocks by cutting off power if they detect an imbalance in the electrical current. Ensure your outdoor outlets are equipped with GFCI protection to enhance the safety of your seasonal lighting displays.
Avoid Overloading Circuits
It is tempting to create dazzling displays with numerous light strands and decorations, but overloading your electrical circuits can lead to power outages or even fires. Follow manufacturer guidelines regarding the maximum number of strands that can be safely connected, and distribute the electrical load across multiple outlets to avoid straining your system.
Secure Lights Properly
Securely fasten lights and extension cords to prevent damage from wind or foot traffic. Use plastic clips or insulated hooks rather than staples or nails, as these can pierce wires and create electrical hazards. Keeping cords and lights off the ground reduces the risk of exposure to water or physical damage.
Opt for LED Lighting
LED lights are an excellent choice for seasonal decorations because they use less electricity, generate less heat, and are more durable than traditional incandescent bulbs. Their energy efficiency can also help reduce your utility bills during the holiday season.
Protect Outdoor Connections
When installing lights outdoors, ensure all electrical connections are weatherproof. Use outdoor-rated extension cords and cover connections with weatherproof enclosures to prevent moisture from seeping in. Rain, snow, or condensation exposure can cause short circuits and pose serious risks.
Schedule Professional Installation
Consider hiring a licensed commercial electrician to install large or complex lighting displays. Professionals can ensure that your setup meets all electrical safety standards and that your building’s electrical system can handle the added demand of seasonal lighting.
Turn Off Lights When Not in Use
Turn off your seasonal lights at the end of each business day to minimize fire risks and save energy. A timer or smart lighting system can help automate this process, ensuring your lights are only on when needed.
Have a Backup Plan
Winter storms or power surges can disrupt your lighting displays. Protect your decorations and other electrical systems with surge protectors, and consider installing backup power solutions to keep your business illuminated even during outages.
CHECK OUT COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES FROM CMI LIGHTING
With over 35 years in the industry, CMI has an array of equipment to handle the logistics of any in-house job. We also frequently provide solutions to property managers and upcoming developments. CMI Companies provides services in the Mid-Atlantic Region and proudly serves clients in Northern Virginia, Maryland, Richmond, Southern Virginia, Manassas, Prince William County, Fairfax County, Rockville, and Prince George’s County. Also, check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.