The holiday season brings bright lights, festive gatherings, and plenty of electrical activity around the home. From elaborate yard displays to increased indoor heating and cooking, electricity use skyrockets this time of year. While the cheer is contagious, so is the risk of electrical hazards if homeowners aren’t careful.

Understanding how to manage power loads, install lighting safely, and follow proper permitting guidelines can make all the difference between a joyful holiday and a stressful emergency call to an electrician in Nashville, TN.

The Hidden Dangers of Holiday Lighting

Nothing says holiday spirit like a twinkling home, but stringing up lights can introduce risks if done improperly. Faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, and damaged cords are common causes of house fires during the winter months.

Before plugging in your decorations, inspect all cords for cracks or frays, and replace any that feel hot to the touch. Always use outdoor-rated extension cords and light sets designed for exterior use if decorating outside. And while it may be tempting to connect multiple light strings together for that Clark Griswold effect, most manufacturers recommend connecting no more than three strands end-to-end.

If your home’s electrical system is older, consult a licensed electrician in Nashville, TN to ensure your circuits can safely handle the increased load. Professionals can inspect your system and recommend surge protectors, GFCI outlets, or upgraded wiring if necessary.

Avoiding Circuit Overloads During the Season

Between electric heaters, kitchen appliances, and lights, the average household uses far more electricity in December than at any other time of year. Overloaded circuits can lead to tripped breakers—or worse, electrical fires. To reduce your risk:

  • Spread decorations and appliances across multiple outlets and circuits.
  • Avoid daisy-chaining power strips or extension cords.
  • Unplug devices when not in use to reduce phantom loads.
  • Use smart plugs or timers to automate lighting schedules.

If breakers are tripping frequently, that’s a red flag. A qualified electrician in Nashville, TN can determine whether your home needs an electrical panel upgrade or circuit redistribution to safely handle holiday demands.

Understanding Nashville’s Electrical Permits

Even small electrical projects can require permits under local regulations—especially if you’re adding new wiring, outlets, or exterior lighting systems. Nashville’s codes exist to ensure safety and compliance, but many homeowners aren’t aware of when these permits are needed.

For example, installing new outdoor outlets for holiday displays or upgrading your breaker panel usually requires a city inspection. Skipping this step can lead to fines or problems when selling your home later. A professional electrician in Nashville, TN is familiar with Metro Nashville’s permitting process and can handle all documentation on your behalf, ensuring everything meets safety and code standards.

Jarrett Companies: An Expert Electrician in Nashville, TN

For over 30 years, Jarrett Companies has served Middle Tennessee with expert electrical, plumbing, and HVAC solutions. Our team of licensed professionals prioritizes safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction—whether it’s a small home upgrade or a large commercial project.

If you’re preparing your home for the holidays or planning an electrical update, reach out to us at Jarrett Companies for trusted expertise and dedicated service. Our skilled electricians can help ensure your seasonal lighting and power systems are safe, efficient, and built to last.