Home Mortgage Alliance Corporation (HMAC)

Don't Pull a Clark Griswold: Your Guide to Christmas Light Success

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Published Date 11/7/2024

Unlike Clark Griswold's infamous 25,000-bulb holiday mishap in "Christmas Vacation," your outdoor light display doesn't have to be a disaster. With proper planning and execution, you can create a magical holiday display that won't send your family running for cover.

"The biggest mistake people make is rushing into their holiday decorating without a proper plan," notes Kelli Harvey from ChristmasLightsEtc.com. "Taking time to assess your space and power needs will save you countless headaches later."

Essential Planning Steps:

Photograph your house from multiple angles
Count windows and identify architectural features
Map out power outlets
Measure key areas (roof lines, trees, walkways)
Calculate power requirements before purchasing

Most household circuits are either 15 amps (1,800 watts) or 20 amps (2,400 watts). Harvey advises, "Never exceed 80% of your circuit's maximum capacity to avoid tripping breakers." This means using no more than 1,440 watts for 15-amp circuits or 1,920 watts for 20-amp circuits.

While incandescent lights are cheaper initially, LEDs offer significant advantages:

Use 90% less power
Last up to 5 seasons (vs. 1-3 for incandescent)
Run cooler
Allow more strings to be connected end-to-end
Often come with multi-year warranties

"If your budget allows, investing in LED lights now will save money in the long run through reduced power consumption and longer lifespans," Harvey explains.

Test all lights immediately after purchase
Keep packaging until installation is complete
Sort decorations by installation location
Gather tools: utility scissors, zip ties, electrical tape, measuring tape
Pre-attach clips if they fit securely

"While Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer great deals, popular items often sell out," Harvey cautions. "Shopping earlier ensures you get exactly what you want." Consider Christmas in July sales for best selection and competitive pricing.

Proper storage extends decoration life:

Store in cool, dry places
Use plastic bins with clear labels
Wrap lights around cardboard or store in individual bags
Protect wreaths with garment bags
Store breakable ornaments in egg cartons or plastic cups

"The two most important things to remember," Harvey emphasizes, "are to test everything immediately after purchase and never exceed your circuit's power capacity."

Installation Preparation Checklist:

▢ Measure all areas

▢ Calculate power needs

▢ Test all lights and decorations

▢ Gather necessary tools

▢ Sort items by installation location

▢ Have extension cords ready

▢ Keep extra clips handy

▢ Check weather forecast

As Harvey notes, "A well-planned display is a joy to install and a delight to behold."

[Adapted from ChristmasLightsEtc.com's comprehensive guide by Kelli Harvey]

Christmaslightsetc, TBWS

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