Remember these safety tips for 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 result in electrical hazards that compromise safety and cause costly damage. Here are essential electrical safety tips from CMI Lighting to keep your commercial seasonal lighting safe, efficient, and worry-free. Contact 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 lighting designed to handle the demands of prolonged use and exposure to the elements. These lights are designed to withstand wear and tear, ensuring greater safety and longer life than residential lights.
Check lights and cords before use
Before installing seasonal lights, inspect each strand carefully. Look for frayed wires, cracked plugs, or loose connections, as these may increase the risk of electrical fires. If you find any damage, replace the damaged items immediately instead of trying to repair them. A simple wiring error can lead to major risks When left untreated.
Use GFCI protected outlets
Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential for powering outdoor lights and decorations. These outlets protect against electrical shock by cutting off the power if an electrical fault is detected. Make sure your outdoor outlets are equipped with GFCI protection to enhance the safety of your seasonal lighting displays.
Avoid overload circuits
It’s tempting to create dazzling displays with many strings of lights and decorations, but overloading your electrical circuits could lead to power outages or even fires. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the maximum number of leads that can be safely connected, and distribute the electrical load across multiple outlets to avoid stressing your system.
Secure the lights properly
Securely fasten lights and extension cords to prevent damage from wind or foot traffic. Use plastic clips or insulated hooks instead of staples or nails, as they may penetrate wires and cause electrical hazards. Keeping cords and lights off the ground reduces the risk of water exposure or physical damage.
Choose LED lighting
LEDs are an excellent choice for seasonal decor 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 external communications
When installing lights outdoors, Make sure all electrical connections are weatherproof. Use outdoor-rated extension cords and cover the connections with weatherproof wraps to prevent moisture from seeping inside. Exposure to rain, snow, or condensation can cause short circuits and pose serious hazards.
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 additional demand of seasonal lighting.
Turn off lights when not in use
Turn off seasonal lights at the end of each work day to reduce fire risks and save energy. A timer or smart lighting system can help automate this process, ensuring the 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 protectorsand consider installing backup power solutions to keep your business lit even during a power outage.
Check out commercial electrical services from CMI Lighting
With over 35 years in the industry, CMI has the range of equipment to handle the logistics of any interior job. We also frequently provide solutions for property managers and upcoming developments. CMI Companies services 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 Facebook, twitterand LinkedIn.
