5 Reasons to Install Switched Outlets for Your Christmas Lights

Christmas is coming and with it comes Christmas decorations, fun events for the whole family, baking, and time to make new memories. People love the lights and glitter that come with the season. Driving through neighborhoods with amazing light displays bring with it so much joy. But it also brings some electrical hazards that many people don’t account for. 

Whether it’s overloading circuits like on National Lampoon’s Christmas or struggling to find a spot to safely and easily access your lights, these hazards can be buffered with the right solution. In this blog, we'll explore the top five reasons why you should consider installing switched outlets for your Christmas lights in Colorado Springs.

What is a Switched Outlet? 

A switched outlet, also known as a half-hot outlet or a split outlet, is a type of electrical outlet that has a built-in switch, allowing you to control the power supply to the outlet. These outlets have both a standard electrical receptacle for plugging in devices and a switch located on the wall plate or in close proximity to the outlet. 

The key feature of a switched outlet is that you can turn the power to the outlet on or off using the switch. When the switch is in the "on" position, the outlet provides electricity, allowing you to plug in and use devices like lamps, appliances, or electronics. When the switch is in the "off" position, the outlet is deactivated, cutting off power to any devices connected to it. When it comes to installing Christmas lights, putting in a switched outlet comes with many benefits. 

Convenient Control Over Your Christmas Lights

Sometimes people run lights on their house and through their yard in a way that can look like tangled spaghetti. Trying to get electricity to these light strands can be difficult. Add to that finding the right spots to plug in when you want to turn your lights on in the late afternoons and evenings in Colorado Springs, and you have a recipe for disaster. Instead of trying to struggle with cords and timers, you could flip a switch to get that holiday vibe for your home. 

Switched outlets allow you to control your Christmas lights without having to venture outside in the cold or rain. You can even set up multiple switched outlets throughout your property, making it effortless to control different sections of your holiday display separately. This includes putting up switched lights in the eaves of your home to help you control homes that are on the house, so you don’t have to create dangerous circuits that put your home at risk during the holidays. 

Enhanced Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to Christmas decorating, especially when working with electricity. Traditional outdoor extension cords and timers can be susceptible to damage from the elements, posing safety risks such as electrical shorts and fires. However, with switched outlets, you can eliminate and reduce many of these risks. 

Switched outlets are designed to meet safety standards and are equipped with built-in protection mechanisms. They are typically weatherproof and can withstand Colorado Springs' winter weather conditions, ensuring that your holiday lighting is safe and reliable. Additionally, the convenience of easily turning off your lights when you're not using them reduces the risk of accidents, making your holiday season worry-free. It’s important to use a Colorado Springs electrician who can help install these switches safely. 

Increased Energy Efficiency

Colorado Springs residents are no strangers to chilly winters, and the cost of keeping your home warm can add up quickly. With switched outlets, you have the power to maximize your energy efficiency during the holiday season. Traditional timers often lack the precision to turn off your lights when you want them to, leading to unnecessary energy consumption. By taking advantage of the precise control they offer, you can keep your home festive without breaking the bank. A good Colorado Springs electrician can help you create a system that maximizes electricity while also keeping your home and your family safe. 

Extended Lighting Lifespan

Christmas lights are an investment, and it's disappointing when they burn out prematurely. Constantly leaving your lights on can shorten their lifespan, leading to more frequent replacements. When you add to that the potential issues that arise from stringing too many lights on a circuit, you can see how your lights could break sooner. With switched outlets, you can more easily switch out the lights that are broken and expand the lifespan of your lighting selections. 

Customizable Lighting Displays

People love custom lighting displays. Creativity is what makes it so special. Whether you prefer a classic, elegant look or a colorful and whimsical design, switched outlets can help you achieve your desired holiday aesthetic. With the ability to control different sections of your lighting display separately, you can create a customized look that suits your style. You can even experiment with various lighting effects by connecting different types of lights to separate switched outlets. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to bring your unique vision to life.