The festive season is a time of joy and celebration, and nothing sets the mood better than twinkling holiday lights adorning your home. In Edmonton, where winter nights are long and dark, permanent holiday lights have become an increasingly popular way to keep the spirit alive all year round. However, while these lights add beauty and festivity, they also require careful planning and installation to ensure safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to ensure the safe installation of permanent holiday lights in your Edmonton home.
1. Understanding the Local Climate and Its Impact
Edmonton experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and sub-zero temperatures. These conditions can put significant strain on any outdoor electrical installation. Before you begin the installation of permanent holiday lights, it’s crucial to choose products specifically designed to withstand Edmonton’s extreme weather. Look for lights that are:
- Weather-resistant: Ensure that the lights are rated for outdoor use and can withstand moisture, snow, and ice.
- Durable: Opt for lights with sturdy cables and connections that won’t easily snap or wear out under pressure.
- Energy-efficient: LED lights are not only energy-efficient but also tend to be more durable in cold weather compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
2. Choosing the Right Lighting System
When selecting your permanent holiday lights, you’ll encounter a variety of options, including different types of bulbs, colours, and control systems. For safety and longevity, consider the following:
- LED vs. Incandescent: LED lights are the preferred choice for permanent installations due to their low energy consumption, longer lifespan, and lower heat output. This reduces the risk of fire and minimizes the environmental impact.
- Smart Control Systems: Many permanent holiday light systems now come with smart controls that allow you to manage your lights via an app. This adds convenience and helps to monitor the lights for any issues.
- Professional-grade Lighting: Investing in commercial or professional-grade lights might be costlier upfront, but they are designed for durability and are often easier to install safely.
3. Hiring a Certified Installer
While DIY projects can be fulfilling, installing permanent holiday lights should ideally be handled by a certified installer. This is especially important if your installation involves:
- Hardwiring into the electrical system: This requires compliance with local electrical codes and a deep understanding of your home’s electrical infrastructure.
- High-altitude work: Edmonton homes often have steep roofs, especially in newer developments. Working at heights without proper safety equipment can be hazardous.
A certified installer ensures that your lights are installed according to the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and that all connections are safe, reducing the risk of electrical fires or malfunctions.
4. Planning the Installation Layout
Proper planning is key to a successful and safe installation. Here’s what you should consider:
- Measure Twice, Install Once: Accurately measure the areas where you want to install the lights. This includes the roofline, eaves, windows, and any other architectural features.
- Power Source Location: Plan where the lights will plug in. Ensure that the power source can handle the load of your light display without overloading the circuit.
- Safe Mounting: Use clips or other mounting hardware specifically designed for holiday lights to avoid damaging your home’s exterior. Avoid using nails or staples, which can puncture cables and create electrical hazards.
- Avoid Overloading Circuits: Calculate the total wattage of your lights and ensure that you don’t exceed the capacity of your electrical circuits. If necessary, have an electrician install additional circuits.
5. Safety Precautions During Installation
Even with professional help, safety precautions during the installation process are critical:
- Use a Stable Ladder: Ensure your ladder is placed on stable ground and follows safety guidelines. If working on a steep roof, consider using a roof harness.
- Avoid Wet Conditions: Never install lights in wet or icy conditions. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and icy surfaces increase the risk of falls.
- GFCI Outlets: Ensure that your outdoor outlets are Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected. This type of outlet cuts off power if it detects an imbalance in the electrical current, which can prevent electrical shocks.
6. Maintenance and Inspection
Once your lights are installed, regular maintenance and inspection are necessary to ensure ongoing safety:
- Inspect Regularly: Periodically check for any frayed wires, burnt-out bulbs, or loose connections. Address these issues immediately to prevent potential hazards.
- Clear Snow and Ice: After heavy snowfall, ensure that snow and ice are not accumulating on your lights, which can add extra weight and strain on the wiring.
- Turn Off When Not Needed: While the allure of permanent lights is their ongoing operation, it’s wise to turn them off during the day or when not needed to conserve energy and reduce wear and tear.
7. Stay Informed About Local Bylaws
Edmonton, like many cities, has specific bylaws concerning outdoor decorations and lighting. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure that your permanent holiday lights are compliant. This may include restrictions on brightness, the number of lights, or the times they can be on.
Conclusion
Installing permanent holiday lights in your Edmonton home can bring year-round cheer and add value to your property. However, safety should always be the top priority. By understanding the local climate, choosing the right products, hiring professionals, and following safety guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of holiday lights without compromising on safety.