At Fresh Wash Power Wash, we’re not just experts at cleaning your home’s exterior—we’re also passionate about keeping your holiday decorations safe and bright. While we spend most of our year power washing driveways, decks, and siding, we know that the holiday season brings its own set of safety challenges, especially when it comes to outdoor Christmas lights and decorations.
Storing Your Lights: The Foundation of Holiday Safety
Proper storage is the first step to ensuring your Christmas lights remain in top condition year after year. Here are our professional tips:
- Clean and Dry Thoroughly: Before storing, make sure your lights are completely clean and dry. (Pro tip: This is where our power washing expertise comes in handy!) Moisture can lead to corrosion and electrical hazards.
- Prevent Tangling: Use cardboard, a light reel, or a specialized light storage container to keep strands neat and untangled. Avoid wrapping lights around your arm or throwing them into a box, which can cause damage.
- Climate-Controlled Storage: Store lights in a cool, dry place. Avoid damp basements or hot attics, which can degrade the electrical components.
- Protect from Pests: Consider storing lights in sealed plastic containers to prevent rodents from chewing on wires.
Pre-Hanging Inspection: Your Safety Checklist for Outdoor Lights
Before you climb that ladder, perform a thorough inspection:
Check for Damage. Examine each strand carefully for:
- Frayed or exposed wires
- Cracked or broken bulb sockets
- Signs of rodent damage
- Loose connections
- Test Before Hanging: Plug in each light strand indoors to ensure it works completely. Replace any strands with multiple non-functioning bulbs.
- Verify Outdoor Rating: Ensure your lights are specifically rated for outdoor use. Indoor lights can be a significant safety hazard when exposed to moisture.
Hanging Lights: Best Practices for Safe Installation
Use the Right Equipment:
- Fiberglass or wooden ladders (avoid metal ladders near electrical lines)
- Sturdy, slip-resistant shoes
- Safety glasses
- Outdoor-rated extension cords
Electrical Safety Fundamentals:
- Don’t overload circuits
- Use outdoor-rated power strips and extension cords
- Ensure connections are elevated and protected from moisture
- Use plastic clips designed for light hanging instead of staples or nails
Weather Considerations:
- Avoid hanging lights during wet or icy conditions
- Secure lights to withstand wind and potential snow
- Use weatherproof connections and covers
Additional Pro Tips from Fresh Wash Power Wash
- Timer Usage: Use outdoor-rated digital timers to automatically manage light displays
- GFCI Protection: Always plug outdoor lights into ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets
- Regular Inspection: Check lights periodically during the season for any developing issues
When in Doubt, Replace
If a light strand shows significant wear or has been stored improperly, or if you just aren’t sure, it’s always safer and more cost-effective to replace it. Your family’s safety is worth more than saving a few dollars on old lights.
Inflatable Yard Decorations: Safety from Setup to Take-down
Blow-up yard figures have become a popular holiday decoration, but they come with their own set of safety considerations:
Placement and Anchoring
- Secure Anchoring: Always use the provided stakes or sandbags to prevent inflatables from blowing away in strong winds.
- Clear Surroundings: Place decorations at least 3 feet away from power lines, trees, and other potential hazards.
- Level Ground: Set up on a flat, dry surface to prevent tipping or damage.
Electrical Safety
- Use Outdoor-Rated Blowers: Ensure the blower and electrical connections are specifically designed for outdoor use.
- Protect Electrical Connections:
- Use waterproof connection covers
- Elevate electrical connections off the ground
- Keep connections away from snow, rain, and standing water
- Dedicated Circuits: Avoid overloading circuits with multiple inflatables and light displays
Maintenance and Inspection
Daily Checks:
- Inspect for tears, punctures, or wear before each use
- Check blower functionality
- Ensure secure anchoring after severe weather
- Proper Inflation: Follow manufacturer guidelines for correct air pressure
- Clean and Dry: Before storing, thoroughly clean and completely dry inflatables to prevent mold and mildew
Weather Considerations
- Wind Warnings: Take down or deflate decorations during:
- High wind advisories
- Severe thunderstorms
- Snowstorms
- Temperature Awareness:
- Some inflatables are not designed for extreme cold
- Check manufacturer specifications for temperature limits
Special Considerations for Mixed Decorations
When combining lights, inflatables, and other outdoor decorations:
- Ensure all electrical components are outdoor-rated
- Use separate circuits or power strips to prevent overloading
- Create clear paths to prevent tripping hazards
- Keep decorations away from walkways and driveways
From all of us at Fresh Wash Power Wash, we wish you a safe, bright, and merry holiday season! Remember, just like we meticulously clean your home’s exterior, we want you to approach your holiday decorating with the same level of care and attention to detail.
Stay safe, stay bright, and happy decorating!
— The Fresh Wash Power Wash Team