Make Sure Wiring Is Up To Holiday Use

Fri., Dec. 5, 1997

By Susan English susane@spokesman.com

Is there a greater burden on our home electrical systems then during the holiday season? Well, maybe when the air conditioners are running full blast in August.

Nevertheless, the dozens of strings of holiday lights we plug in during December should not be taken, well, lightly. Take a few minutes to survey your safety level this month. Some tips from Sears Home services:

Outlets in older homes that don’t work can be a warning sign that your house wiring may need updating. Contrary to popular belief, wiring fails over time, not necessarily all at once.

When you turn on appliances, do the lights flicker or dim? A flicker shouldn’t cause great concern, but permanent dimming should. Upgrade the circuit breaker box, possibly to 150 or 200 amp service (most older homes are 100 amp service, which is insufficient for microwave ovens, computers, stereos and holiday lights, all on at once).

Power strips and extension cords can be safety hazards. Consider installing more outlets inside and weatherproof outdoor outlets for holiday displays.

More holiday advice

As most hostesses know, holiday entertaining is labor intensive. When it comes to cleaning, however, it’s not just a once-over and then you’re done. The Carpet and Rug Institute suggests vacuuming rugs in high-traffic areas daily during the holidays, and all of the carpeted areas at least twice a week.

Change the vacuum bag often and the vacuum will be more efficient.

Accidents happen, clean up the spill immediately before it stains.

Remove stains that have set gently and patiently.

, DataTimes

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