It’s that time of year again. The holiday season is in full swing which means people will be braving ladders and climbing on roofs to hang festive lights and partake in the holiday cheer.

While these lights alone may not seem dangerous, what is alarming is that many households are not equipped with outdoor ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which are special electrical outlets that are installed in areas where there is a risk of electricity meeting water like in outdoor outlets and in kitchens and bathrooms. Not only are they much safer, but also make it easier for using outdoor tools requiring power and of course, hanging those twinkling lights.

Would you like to receive a quote for installing an outdoor outlet or two at your home? Give us a call at 860-421-3310 or 860-314-1518 and we can set up an appointment right away. We know you want to get those holiday lights up, but we also want to make sure you and your home are safe!

GFCI outlets look similar to the traditional counterparts, however, they can be identified by the “test” and “reset” buttons on their face. They monitor the flow of an electrical current in a circuit, and when a ground fault occurs, the flow between the neutral and hot wires becomes unbalanced. Once there’s a disturbance in current, the GFCI breaks the electrical circuit and shuts off the energy flow.

Electricians recommend GFCI outlets because they react faster than circuit breakers or fuses. These outlets not only prevent serious electric shock, but they also reduce the risk of electrical fires and prevent damage to appliances.

All outdoor Christmas light installations should be fed from GFCI outlets as well as the lights and any extension cords should be approved for outdoor use by the product manufacturer and should not be altered in any way. Outdoor lights not plugged into approved outdoor extension cords can potentially cause fires.

And remember… although it can seem like a small, simple project, installing an outlet requires a licensed electrician. If you do it yourself or hire someone who’s not licensed, you take the risk of starting an electrical fire and your insurance policy may not cover the damages.

Call the professionals at TMS and we’ll be happy
to help you (SAFELY) spread the holiday cheer!!!
(860) 421-3310 or (860) 314-1518