Preparing Your Home’s Electrics for Christmas: Stay Safe and Festive
Liam Peters • November 3, 2025
Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but it also brings a surge in electrical demand. From festive lights to extra kitchen appliances, it’s important to ensure your home’s electrics are safe and ready for the holiday season. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we help homeowners across Berkshire prepare their homes for the holidays by ensuring their electrical systems can handle the extra load. Here’s how to get your electrics Christmas-ready.
1. Check Your Christmas Lights
Christmas lights are a beautiful tradition, but they can also pose a safety risk if not used correctly. Before you plug in those twinkling decorations, check for the following:
- Frayed Wires: Look for any visible damage to the wires. Damaged lights should not be used and must be replaced.
- Test Outdoor Lights: Ensure your outdoor lights are rated for external use and are in good working condition.
- Avoid Overloading Circuits: If you’re stringing up several sets of lights, be cautious not to overload electrical sockets or extension cords. If in doubt, use a surge protector to prevent damage to your lights and electrical system.
Remember to always switch off your lights when you’re not at home or before bed.
2. Inspect Power Strips and Extension Leads
With extra lights, decorations, and gadgets, you'll likely need to use multiple power strips or extension leads. Ensure they are in good condition and do not have exposed wires or faulty switches. Never daisy-chain extension leads together, as this increases the risk of overloads or fires. Use high-quality, certified extension leads that are equipped with overload protection.
3. Prepare Your Kitchen Appliances
The kitchen is often the hub of activity during Christmas, with ovens, kettles, slow cookers, and other appliances working overtime. Here’s how to keep things safe:
- Check for Faults: Make sure all your electrical kitchen appliances are in working order and have no visible damage.
- Avoid Overloading Circuits: Kitchens can be power-hungry, especially with multiple devices plugged in at once. Avoid overloading circuits by using appliances one at a time, or consider adding additional sockets if needed.
- Use Appliances Safely: Never leave cooking appliances unattended and ensure all cords are tucked safely away from hot surfaces.
4. Check Smoke Alarms and RCDs
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, fire safety should never take a back seat. Check that your smoke alarms are working by testing them before your holiday celebrations begin. Also, ensure your RCD (Residual Current Device) protection is functioning properly. This safety feature automatically cuts power in case of an electrical fault, providing vital protection against electric shocks or fires.
5. Consider Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Christmas is a time when energy consumption tends to rise. If you’re looking to make your home more energy-efficient in the long term, consider upgrading to LED Christmas lights instead of traditional bulbs. LED lights use significantly less energy and last much longer, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective choice.
Additionally, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances or installing smart thermostats can help manage your home’s energy consumption during the holiday season.
6. Get a Professional Electrical Check-Up
If you're unsure whether your home’s electrical system is ready for the extra demands of Christmas, consider having an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) or a general check-up. A professional electrician can assess your system’s safety and provide recommendations for any necessary upgrades or repairs before you turn on those festive lights and appliances.
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Season
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a safe and festive holiday season without worrying about electrical issues. If you’re in need of a professional electrical check-up or any upgrades to ensure your home is holiday-ready, contact Lighthouse Electrical Contractors. We’re here to help you keep your home safe, festive, and fully functional this Christmas.
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As energy costs continue to rise, saving money on electricity has become a priority for many homeowners. Here are some practical tips to cut down on your electricity bills in 2025: Upgrade to LED Lighting : Switch from old incandescent or halogen bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs, which use less power and last longer. Install Smart Thermostats : A smart thermostat learns your schedule and adjusts your heating, ensuring you’re not wasting energy. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances : When replacing old appliances, choose models with the highest energy ratings (A+++). Consider Solar Power : If feasible, installing solar panels can drastically reduce your energy costs by generating your own electricity. Schedule Regular Electrical Maintenance : Keeping your electrical system in top shape ensures it operates efficiently and safely, reducing energy waste. Need help making your home more energy-efficient? Lighthouse Electrical Contractors offers expert advice and installation for energy-saving upgrades.
If you own a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) , ensuring your electrical system complies with legal standards is vital. Here’s what you need to know: EICR Every 5 Years : HMOs must have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every 5 years to ensure the electrics are safe. Emergency Lighting : If your HMO is more than two stories high, emergency lighting is required to aid escape in case of a power outage. Sockets and Appliances : You must ensure sufficient sockets for tenants and carry out PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) for any supplied appliances. Fire Safety : Smoke alarms , fire alarms, and interlinked systems must be tested and maintained. Keep your tenants safe and compliant with all HMO electrical regulations. Lighthouse Electrical Contractors can help with inspections, upgrades, and ongoing maintenance. Contact us on 07436 003 624 for more information.
The future of home electrics is an exciting one! As technology continues to evolve, so do the electrical systems in our homes. Over the next five years, you can expect significant advancements, including: Smart Homes: With increased connectivity, more homes will be fully integrated with smart devices, from lighting to security. Expect devices that learn your habits and offer enhanced convenience and energy-saving features. Electric Vehicles: With the rise of electric cars, the demand for home charging stations will grow. Homeowners will need to ensure their electrics can handle the extra load. Energy Efficiency: Advances in solar power, battery storage, and heat pumps will allow homes to become more energy-independent, reducing reliance on the grid. Wiring and Infrastructure: Homes will see smarter wiring and the integration of systems that automatically adjust energy usage based on real-time data. These upgrades will make your home more efficient, sustainable, and comfortable. Stay ahead of the curve with electrical improvements, and contact us at Lighthouse Electrical Contractors to make sure your home is ready for the future.
If you’re a landlord in the UK, keeping up with changing electrical regulations is essential – not just for legal compliance, but to keep your tenants safe and protect your property investment. As we move through 2025, electrical safety continues to be a top priority in rental homes. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we work with landlords across Berkshire to ensure their properties meet all current requirements. Here’s a clear breakdown of your key electrical responsibilities this year. 1. You Must Have a Valid EICR Since July 2020, it’s been a legal requirement for all rental properties in England to have a valid Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) . This rule applies to both new and existing tenancies. In 2025: An EICR must be carried out every 5 years, or sooner if recommended by the report. The inspection must be completed by a qualified electrician. A copy of the report must be given to tenants within 28 days. You must also supply it to your local authority within 7 days if requested. If faults or urgent issues are found, remedial work must be completed within 28 days, and a confirmation of this work must be provided. 2. Keep the Property Electrically Safe Throughout the Tenancy As a landlord, you're responsible for maintaining the electrical installation in a safe condition for the duration of the tenancy – not just at the start. This includes: Ensuring light fittings, switches, sockets and consumer units remain in good working order. Fixing reported electrical issues promptly. Checking that any alterations or damage caused by tenants don't compromise safety. 3. Install RCD Protection Where Required If your property still has an old-style fuse box without RCD protection, it’s strongly recommended (and often necessary) to upgrade the consumer unit. RCDs help prevent electric shocks and fires – and are essential for compliance with modern safety standards. Many insurers and letting agents now expect RCD protection as standard. 4. Appliance Safety (PAT Testing) If you provide electrical appliances as part of the tenancy (like a fridge, microwave or washing machine), you must ensure they are safe to use. While PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) isn’t legally required in all cases, it's strongly advised – especially for HMOs or furnished lets. Need Help Staying Compliant? Lighthouse Electrical Contractors provides trusted, fully qualified electrical services for landlords across Berkshire. From EICRs and consumer unit upgrades to ongoing maintenance and PAT testing, we’ll help you stay compliant and protect your tenants. Contact us today to book an inspection or ask about our landlord safety packages.
When you’ve got little ones at home, safety becomes the number one priority. While baby gates and cupboard locks are often the first steps, many parents forget how important it is to childproof the electrical system . At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we’ve worked with families across Berkshire to make their homes electrically safe and secure for children. Here’s how to protect curious hands and prevent accidents around your home’s electrics. 1. Use Socket Covers With Caution Plug socket covers were once a go-to for babyproofing, but not all are as safe as they seem. In fact, poorly designed covers can sometimes make a socket more dangerous if they break or encourage children to tamper with them. Modern UK sockets are designed with inbuilt safety shutters, so the best advice is to use covers only if necessary and always choose child-safe, approved designs . Better yet, install tamper-resistant sockets for added peace of mind. 2. Tidy Away Cables Dangling wires and plugged-in chargers are tempting for toddlers. Not only can they pull appliances down on themselves, but damaged cables are also a shock risk. To reduce hazards: Use cord shorteners or cable tidies Keep extension leads out of reach Unplug devices when not in use We can also install extra sockets in areas where you're over-relying on extension leads – a safer and neater long-term solution. 3. Secure Appliances Ensure large appliances like TVs, lamps and floor-standing fans are stable and secure , with cables tucked out of reach. For wall-mounted TVs or kitchen appliances, make sure they’re properly installed and the wiring is concealed. If you're unsure about how safe your current setup is, we can check and advise on any necessary upgrades or adjustments. 4. Install RCD Protection One of the most effective safety measures in any home – especially with children – is to ensure your consumer unit has RCD (Residual Current Device) protection . RCDs quickly cut off power if they detect a fault or shock risk, greatly reducing the chance of serious injury. If your fuse box is old or doesn’t include RCDs, we highly recommend upgrading. 5. Be Aware of Bathroom Risks Electricity and water are a dangerous combination. Make sure: Bathroom sockets are properly installed and at a safe distance from any water source Hairdryers or electric toothbrushes are never left plugged in near a sink or bath All lighting and fans are correctly IP rated for bathroom use Need Expert Advice? At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we’re here to help you keep your family safe. From socket upgrades to RCD protection and professional advice, we offer tailored childproofing solutions for homes across Berkshire. Get in touch today to arrange a safety check or speak to one of our qualified electricians.
Buying a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. While most buyers focus on kitchens, bathrooms and overall layout, it’s just as important to check the condition of the electrics . Hidden faults can lead to unexpected costs, safety issues and major inconvenience after you move in. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors , we regularly help homebuyers across Berkshire assess the safety of a property’s electrical system. Here’s what you should check before signing on the dotted line. 1. How Old Is the Consumer Unit? The consumer unit (also known as the fuse box) is a key indicator of the overall condition of a property’s electrics. A modern unit should have RCD protection , labelled circuits, and comply with the latest regulations. If the unit looks outdated – for example, it has rewireable fuses or lacks RCDs – this could mean the system is 20+ years old and may need upgrading for safety and compliance. 2. When Was the Last Electrical Inspection? Ask the seller for a recent Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) . This is a professional assessment of the entire electrical system, highlighting any damage, wear or non-compliance. If there isn’t a recent EICR available, you may want to have one carried out before exchanging contracts – especially in older properties. We offer pre-purchase electrical inspections for peace of mind. 3. Check for Visible Issues During your viewing, keep an eye out for signs that the electrics might need attention: Loose or cracked sockets and switches Old-fashioned light switches or fittings Extension leads being used in place of proper outlets Flickering lights or buzzing sounds from switches While these issues may seem minor, they can point to bigger problems beneath the surface. 4. Think About Modern Living Needs Older homes may not have enough sockets, circuits or capacity for modern life – especially if you’re planning to work from home, install a heat pump, or charge an electric car. You may also want to upgrade to smart lighting or energy-efficient solutions. Knowing in advance whether the system can cope with future upgrades helps you plan and budget accordingly. Book a Pre-Purchase Electrical Check At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we offer friendly, professional advice and thorough electrical checks for homebuyers across Berkshire. Whether you're unsure about the condition of the wiring or want a second opinion on the fuse box, we can help you make an informed decision. Get in touch today to book a homebuyer electrical survey or to speak to a member of our expert team.
Lighting plays a big role in the comfort, efficiency and style of your home – but with so many options available, how do you know what’s best? At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we often get asked whether it’s worth switching to LED lighting or sticking with traditional bulbs. In short: LED wins hands down – and here’s why. 1. Energy Efficiency LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs are far more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs. An LED uses up to 80–90% less electricity to produce the same amount of light, making a noticeable difference to your energy bills. For example, a 5W LED can produce the same brightness as a 40W incandescent bulb – saving energy without sacrificing light quality. 2. Longer Lifespan One of the biggest benefits of LED lighting is its lifespan. While a traditional bulb might last 1,000 hours , an LED can last up to 25,000 to 50,000 hours . That means fewer replacements, less waste and less hassle. In real terms, that’s years of reliable lighting – even in busy areas like kitchens and bathrooms. 3. Better for the Environment Thanks to their low energy consumption and long life, LEDs are much more environmentally friendly. They reduce your carbon footprint and don’t contain hazardous materials like mercury, which is found in some compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Switching your home to LED lighting is one of the simplest ways to make your household greener. 4. Design Flexibility and Features Modern LED lighting is incredibly versatile. You can choose from: Warm or cool tones Dimmable options Smart bulbs that connect to apps or voice control Colour-changing LEDs for mood lighting They’re also available in a wide range of fittings, making it easy to upgrade existing fixtures or create a completely new look. 5. Are There Any Downsides? The only real downside to LEDs used to be the cost – but prices have dropped significantly in recent years. While LEDs may still cost more upfront than older-style bulbs, the energy savings and long lifespan make them far more cost-effective in the long run. Ready to Upgrade Your Lighting? If you’re considering making the switch to LED lighting or planning a lighting upgrade as part of a renovation, we’re here to help. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we offer expert advice and professional installation across Berkshire – whether you want a full home lighting makeover or just to swap out old bulbs safely. Get in touch today for a no-obligation quote or to discuss your lighting needs.
With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming more popular across the UK, many homeowners are looking to install EV chargers at home for faster, more convenient charging. If you’ve recently bought an electric car or are planning to, it’s important to understand what’s involved in getting a charger installed. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we regularly install EV chargers across Berkshire and the surrounding areas. Here’s what you need to know before getting started. 1. Why Install a Home EV Charger? While you can charge an EV using a standard 3-pin plug, it’s not ideal. It’s slow, inefficient, and not designed for regular high-load charging. A dedicated home EV charger is: Much faster (typically 7kW vs 2.4kW from a 3-pin plug) Safer for regular use More energy efficient Often controllable via an app to schedule charging during off-peak times Installing a proper charger makes charging your vehicle as simple as plugging in overnight. 2. Is My Home Suitable? Most homes with off-street parking (like a driveway or garage) are suitable for an EV charger. You'll need: A suitable wall or post to mount the charger Access to your consumer unit Adequate electrical capacity Before any installation, we carry out a site survey to check your existing electrical system can support a charger safely. If your consumer unit is outdated, we may recommend an upgrade before installation. 3. Choosing the Right Charger There are a range of EV chargers available in the UK, from simple plug-and-go units to smart chargers that work with solar panels, track your energy use and allow you to control charging from your phone. We’ll help you choose a charger that suits your vehicle, budget and lifestyle – and we install chargers compatible with all major EV brands. 4. What Does Installation Involve? Installation usually takes half a day. We: Assess and test your electrical system Install the charger neatly and safely Fully test the unit Provide certification and user guidance All our installations are fully compliant with the latest wiring regulations and come with certification for your peace of mind. Ready to Go Electric? If you’re ready to make the switch to electric, make sure your home is ready too. At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we offer professional EV charger installations across Berkshire, with expert advice and reliable service. Contact us today to book a free survey or to discuss your EV charging options.
Smart home technology is becoming a standard feature in modern UK homes. From voice-controlled lighting to app-based heating systems and video doorbells, smart upgrades can increase convenience, boost security and help manage energy use. But before diving into the world of smart devices, it’s essential to ask: are your home electrics ready? At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we regularly help homeowners across Berkshire get their properties smart-home ready. Here’s what you need to consider before installing the latest tech. 1. Check the Condition of Your Consumer Unit Before installing any smart technology, your consumer unit (or fuse box) must be up to date. Older units without RCD protection may not support newer smart systems safely. If your consumer unit still has rewireable fuses or you haven’t had an inspection in the last 10 years, now is the time to upgrade. A modern consumer unit ensures your home’s circuits can handle the extra demands smart devices may bring, and more importantly, it offers better protection from electrical faults. 2. Do You Have Enough Circuits and Power? Smart homes often rely on several new systems such as Wi-Fi-connected lighting, smart thermostats, CCTV, or EV chargers . These may need dedicated circuits or additional sockets to operate safely and efficiently. If your existing setup is already running close to capacity, an electrical upgrade might be necessary. A qualified electrician can assess whether your current system has room for expansion and can install additional circuits where needed. 3. Consider Network Infrastructure While not strictly an electrical issue, the backbone of any smart home is a strong and reliable internet connection. If you’re planning to install multiple smart devices, it’s worth thinking about where your routers and extenders will be placed and whether they need power in lofts, garages or outbuildings. We can install sockets or network wiring in hard-to-reach areas to support this. 4. Plan Ahead for Future Tech Even if you’re starting with a couple of smart plugs and a video doorbell, it pays to futureproof your home. Ask us about flexible solutions that will make it easier to add to your system later, like integrated USB sockets, additional data points, or smart-ready lighting circuits. Ready to Upgrade? Whether you're taking your first steps into smart tech or planning a full home automation system, Lighthouse Electrical Contractors can help ensure your electrics are safe, up to standard and ready for the future. We serve homes across Berkshire with trusted advice, high-quality installations and a focus on safety. Get in touch today for a free quote or to arrange a home electrical assessment.
At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we’re often asked about consumer units and why they matter so much in a home’s electrical system. As trusted electricians based in Berkshire with over a decade of experience, we believe every homeowner should have a basic understanding of their consumer unit – what it does, how it protects you, and when it might need updating. What Is a Consumer Unit ? A consumer unit, sometimes called a fuse box or distribution board, is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It distributes electricity from the main supply to different circuits around your property – including lighting, sockets, kitchen appliances and more. You’ll usually find it near your electricity meter, often under the stairs or in a hallway or utility room. Modern consumer units are equipped with safety devices that protect you and your home from electrical faults. These include circuit breakers, RCDs (residual current devices) and sometimes AFDDs (arc fault detection devices), which are designed to prevent electric shocks, fires and damage to appliances. Key Components of a Consumer Unit Main Switch This allows you to turn off all power in your home quickly. It’s vital in an emergency or when electrical work is being carried out. Circuit Breakers (MCBs) These automatically cut the power to a circuit if too much current flows through it, helping to prevent overheating and electrical fires. Residual Current Devices (RCDs) RCDs are essential safety features. They detect when electricity is flowing down an unintended path – such as through a person – and shut off power instantly to reduce the risk of electric shock. RCBOs These combine the features of an MCB and an RCD and offer protection for individual circuits. They are becoming more common in modern consumer unit setups. AFDDs Although not yet mandatory in every property, AFDDs detect potentially dangerous electrical arcs and shut the circuit off before a fire can start. These are especially useful in high-risk areas or vulnerable properties. Why Consumer Units Matter A modern consumer unit plays a crucial role in: Protecting your home and family With safety mechanisms in place, consumer units help prevent electrical fires and protect against electrocution. Meeting UK regulations Consumer units need to comply with the latest wiring regulations, known as BS 7671. Upgrading an old unit can bring your system in line with current safety standards. Supporting new appliances and upgrades If you're installing a new kitchen, electric shower or car charger, your consumer unit may need additional capacity or better protection. When Should You Upgrade? At Lighthouse Electrical Contractors, we recommend looking at an upgrade if: Your existing fuse box still uses traditional wire fuses There’s no RCD protection in place The electrical system is more than 25 years old You’re renovating, extending or adding new circuits You’ve had an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) that highlights concerns Only a qualified and registered electrician should replace a consumer unit. All our work complies with Part P of the Building Regulations, and we handle notification to building control on your behalf. Trust Lighthouse Electrical Contractors With over a decade of experience and five-star reviews across Berkshire and the surrounding areas, Lighthouse Electrical Contractors are your local experts in consumer unit upgrades, inspections and installations. Whether you're unsure about the state of your existing fuse box or you're planning a home renovation, we’re here to offer honest advice and high-quality workmanship. Contact us today to book a free assessment or to find out more about upgrading your consumer unit.
