Winter brings space heaters, power strips, and big holiday displays. Used the wrong way, they cause tripped breakers and fire risk. Used the right way, they keep your home comfortable and festive. This guide explains safe winter electrical use for southern Illinois and western Kentucky, and when to call a licensed electrician.
Why space heaters trip your breaker
Most portable space heaters are rated at 1,500 watts. On a 120-volt circuit, that is about 12.5 amps. If the same 15-amp circuit also feeds a hair dryer, vacuum, microwave, or multiple outlets and lights, the total load can exceed the breaker rating and the breaker will trip. Old or loose connections make trips more likely.
Space heater do’s and don’ts
Do
- Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet on a lightly loaded circuit.
- Keep the heater at least 3 feet from curtains, bedding, and furniture.
- Place it on the floor where it cannot tip easily.
- Choose models with tip-over and overheat protection.
Do not
- Use extension cords or power strips with space heaters.
- Run cords under rugs or furniture.
- Leave a heater unattended or running while you sleep.
- Share the circuit with other high-draw appliances.
Extension cords and power strips, the right way
Cords and strips are helpful, but they are not a substitute for permanent wiring. Think of them as short-term tools for light to moderate loads. If you find yourself using them every day, that is a sign you may need a dedicated circuit.
- Use a heavy-duty outdoor-rated cord for outdoor loads. Look for a grounded, 3-prong cord with 12-gaugeconductors for higher loads.
- Keep cord runs short and fully uncoiled to prevent overheating.
- Never daisy-chain power strips.
- Use surge-protected strips only for electronics and low-draw devices.
- For permanent needs, add a dedicated circuit instead of relying on cords.
Holiday lighting without headaches
- Once rooms are warm and comfortable, most families turn their attention to the tree, mantle, and outdoor displays. Holiday lighting creates a different set of risks than space heaters. The loads are smaller, but there are many more connection points, there is moisture outdoors, and cords often cross walkways and landscaping. A few simple choices make a big difference in both safety and reliability.
- Use LED holiday lights. They draw less power and stay cooler.
- Plug exterior lights into GFCI-protected outlets with in-use weather covers.
- Follow the manufacturer’s limit on how many light strings you can connect end-to-end.
- Keep connections off the ground and away from gutters or standing water.
- Use timers or smart plugs rated for the load to avoid all-night operation.
When to add a dedicated circuit
Consider a dedicated 20-amp circuit if you:
- Use a space heater in a home office or nursery.
- Run window A/C, a freezer, or workshop tools that trip breakers.
- Plan a large holiday display each year.
A dedicated circuit reduces nuisance trips and keeps heat sources off general-purpose wiring.
How Reed Electric can help
We install dedicated circuits, GFCI and AFCI protection, weather-resistant outdoor outlets, and in-use covers. We also perform panel tune-ups and correct loose or overheated connections that cause nuisance trips. Our team serves southern Illinois and western Kentucky.
Need help before the next cold snap?
Call 618-524-7545 (Illinois) or 270-441-2094 (Kentucky)