How To Avoid Overloaded Circuits With Christmas Lights

Overloaded circuits or an inaccurately placed wreath could put your Christmas dinner in the dark. Secondly, and more importantly, If we get a lot of moisture…rain, snow, ice etc…it can, and often does, make its way into the lights. Keep your outdoor lights dry. The first known Christmas tree, lit by electric light was created by Edward Johnson. So why don't they just replace the outlet with a non GFCI? Gfci continues to trip. Why did the bag not help seal up the outlets, and even more serious, why did it start a fire?

Gfci trips with christmas lights around
What trips a gfci
Gfci continues to trip

Gfci Trips With Christmas Lights Around

Let's take a look at different ways to reduce nuisance GFCI tripping. If they trip, it's an indication there is a problem, and you'll need an electrician you can trust. The coil overheated and the insulation was melting when we found it, creating a serious hazard that thankfully didn't cause any more damage. Never overreach or try to move the ladder when you're at the top. If the power is not restored, it's probably time to call an electrician to complete a full evaluation and diagnosis. Portable GFCI outlets are a must have for Christmas lights. Check the wire for any knicks or exposed wire. Try using a protective plastic cover. Run the sprinklers on it or wait for a heavy foggy, maybe drizzling day.

What Trips A Gfci

Example of a two-piece LED light set. These ratings will also be based on the optimal wattage output printed on the box, and on the type of light you use. Use good quality light setsJust because they were cheap doesn't mean they are a good deal. Inside your home, GFCI outlets can be found in your bathroom or kitchen. You can easily fry an adapter (since many of these are sketchy to begin with), and the massive bulk of cord connectors protruding from the outlet itself becomes a shock and fire hazard. A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protects people against getting shocked. Installing Christmas lights using bare metal staples or nails can damage the wiring. Since your yard decorations are exposed to rain and water from sprinklers, the outlet you plug in to should be GFCI protected. However, avoid using staple or nails. Gfci trips with christmas lights around. Overloaded circuits are one of the most common reasons for circuit breakers tripping, but not the only reason. See if any copper is exposed by running your fingers over it until you feel a rough area with broken insulation. Try not to overload your outlets. Furthermore, the thin wire on a light set isn't usually designed to handle more than 1. Make sure that you are using the correct size bulb for your light strand.

Gfci Continues To Trip

GFI circuits are a little bit different. The male blades should not be visible. They work best if you are plugging in your lights all into the same area. If the problem keeps reoccurring, you may need a new dedicated circuit and outlet that can handle the amperage required by the appliances. If you have an older home and you don't have them, call a licensed electrician to have some installed. Or even going to turn on your hair blow dryer, only to find there's no power in your bathroom. Moisture is a common cause of power interruptions. Also check the AC power cords, I found a small nick in the insulation. I'll cover co-axial light sets later in the article. Pick the Right Light Set. Why do my Christmas Lights turn off in the rain. About the Author: Jason Woodward began his career in the pro Christmas industry 21 years ago with Christmas Designers. The breaker is designed to cut electricity when the circuit is overloading and overheating. Elevate them slightly on something not conductive like wood. How To Best Install Your Lights.

Using a temporary timer adds one more possible GFCI tripping point. The best way to prevent power interruptions and safety hazards is to proactively plan your holiday lights and decorations, ensure your electrical system is up-to-code and working correctly, and take precautions, such as the ones listed above.