The Warmth Of Window Candles: A Guide To Installation

Candles in the window are a heartwarming tradition, often associated with Christmas. In colonial times, candles were placed in the window when a family member was away, as a sign of good news, or as a welcome to travellers. Today, electric candles are a popular alternative to traditional candles, offering a warm glow without the fire risk. Whether you're looking to create a cosy atmosphere or continue a time-honoured tradition, electric candles are a great option for your windows. Read on to learn how to put electric candles in your windows and add a little extra sparkle to your home.

Using clamps, suction cups, putty or other adhesives

Clamps, suction cups, putty, and other adhesives are all great ways to secure electric candles to your windows. One option is to use suction candle clamps, which feature a suction cup and a clamp that fits onto the candle. Before attaching the clamp, be sure to wipe down the window with a window cleaner to remove any dust that might prevent the suction from working properly. Once the window is clean, push the candle into the clamp, and then position the suction cup wherever you'd like on the window.

Another option is to use poster putty, which is a substance that feels similar to play clay. Take small pieces of putty and press them onto the bottom of the candle's base, making sure to position the putty so that the candle sits upright. When you no longer want the candle in the window, simply lift it and remove the putty. This method is especially useful if your windowsill doesn't have a deep ledge or sill to support the candle.

You can also try using adhesive hooks or command strips, which are designed to stick to a variety of surfaces, including glass. Simply attach the hook or strip to the window and then hang the electric candle from it. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package to ensure proper use and weight limits. These methods provide a secure way to display your electric candles without causing any damage to your windows or requiring any permanent fixtures.

Safety considerations

Before installing electric candles in your windows, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Firstly, always inspect all electrical decorations before use. Look out for damaged sockets, bare wires, and loose connections as these can lead to electrical shocks or start a fire. It is also important to use flameless candles to reduce the risk of a fire. Battery-operated candles are a good option, but keep in mind that they may burn out quickly and require regular switching off.

When attaching electric candles to your windows, consider using suction candle clamps with a suction cup for the window and a clamp for the candle. Wipe the window surface with a cleaner first to ensure proper suction. Alternatively, poster putty can be used to secure the base of the candle to the windowsill. Remember to remove the putty when the candle is not in use.

If you are using extension cords, ensure they are specifically approved for outdoor usage and are GFCI-protected to prevent electrical malfunctions. Keep cords and light strings clear of snow and standing water. Additionally, be mindful of the power requirements of electrical products and match them with the amperage rating of your extension cords.

Finally, remember that holiday decorations are intended for temporary use. Leaving decorations up for extended periods can expose wires to the elements, reducing their shelf life and increasing the risk of electrical hazards. Always exercise caution and follow safety guidelines when using electric candles to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in your home.

The history and meaning of candles in windows

The tradition of placing candles in windows is a popular Christmas custom, but it is also practised year-round in some places. The use of candles in windows is believed to have originated in colonial times and has been interpreted in various ways. One interpretation suggests that a candle in the window was an invitation for priests to visit homes and offer sacraments during Christmas. The candles signalled that the priests would be welcomed and kept safe. This interpretation holds that a single candle in several windows or three candles in one window each represented Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.

In South Central Pennsylvania, candles in windows are a year-round tradition, with a similar practice observed in neighbouring New Jersey. This custom is believed to be linked to the Underground Railroad, with a lit candle indicating that a home offered safe shelter to those seeking freedom. The Pennsylvania Dutch are known for continuing this tradition, keeping candles in their windows throughout the year.

For many, the tradition of candles in windows holds a symbolic meaning. It can represent the light of Christ in one's heart, inviting Jesus, Mary, and Joseph into one's home during Christmas. The warm glow of candles in windows creates a classic and nostalgic Christmas scene, adding a cosy and festive atmosphere to homes.

Today, electric candles are often used as a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional candles. These can be easily attached to windows using suction candle clamps or poster putty, providing a hassle-free way to achieve the magical glow of a candlelit window.

Different types of electric candles

Electric candles can be a great way to add a warm glow and a cosy feel to your home. There are many different types of electric candles available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types:

• Flameless Candles: These candles provide light without the use of an open flame, making them a safer alternative to traditional candles. Flameless candles can be powered by batteries or rechargeable lithium coin button batteries, which allow for easy replacement. They come in various shapes and sizes, including tapered options, tea lights, and pillar candles. Some flameless candles even have a flickering effect and adjustable brightness, making them look more like real candles.
• Wax-filled Glass Candles: These candles are known for their aesthetic appeal, with the wax contained within a glass jar or container. Mason jars are a popular choice for this type of candle. They are perfect for accent tables and dining areas, both indoors and outdoors, as they illuminate the space without the mess or cleanup of regular wax candles.
• Cartridge Candles: Cartridge candles offer a sophisticated look without the hassle of dripping wax. They are designed to eliminate cleanup and extend the candle's longevity.
• Beeswax Candles: Beeswax candles are natural and known for their warm golden colour, hexagonal pattern, and subtle honey scent. They have the added benefit of helping to clean the air by reducing pollutants that can cause asthma and allergies.
• Pillar Candles: Pillar candles are made from dense wax, allowing them to stand on their own. They come in various shapes, sizes, and heights, with cylindrical shapes being the most common. Pillar candles are often used in groups to create accent lighting and decor accessories.

When it comes to displaying electric candles in your windows, there are a few methods you can use. Suction candle clamps, for example, can be attached to the window, providing a secure hold for the candle even without a deep sill or ledge. Alternatively, poster putty can be used to hold the base of the candle onto a windowsill. Simply press small pieces of putty onto the bottom of the candle, ensuring it remains upright.

Design and aesthetic considerations

Electric candles in windows can add a warm and cosy glow to your home, and are often associated with the festive season. They can be a beautiful way to evoke the warmth of home and family, and can be a welcoming sight for visitors. There are a few ways to display electric candles in your windows, and some design considerations to keep in mind to achieve the best effect.

Firstly, consider the style of electric candle you wish to use. There are simple electric candles that mimic the look of traditional candles, and these can be placed in windows with clamps or putty. Clamps feature a suction cup for the window and a clamp that fits onto the candle, allowing you to display the candle even on a window without a deep sill. Wipe the window surface first with a cleaner to ensure the suction works effectively. Poster putty, on the other hand, can be used to hold the base of an electric candle onto a windowsill. Simply press small pieces of it onto the bottom of the candle, and remove it when you are finished.

Alternatively, you might opt for solar-powered electric candles, which can be more convenient as they do not have cords and will not need to be turned on and off manually. These could be a good option if you have many windows and wish to avoid the hassle of cords and batteries.

When placing your electric candles, consider the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. You might choose to place them in all your front-facing windows for a uniform look, or select specific windows to feature a single candle for a more subtle approach. Grouping candles together can create a dramatic effect, especially if you combine them with seasonal greenery or decorations. If you have a kitchen window, adding a candle among the plants can be a lovely way to bring warmth to the space.

For a magical touch, especially during the festive season, consider combining your electric candles with twinkly lights on a Christmas tree. This can enhance the cosy atmosphere and create a charming display that evokes the excitement of childhood Christmases. Electric candles in windows can be a beautiful tradition to adopt, welcoming travellers and evoking a sense of friendship and hospitality.

Frequently asked questions