You’ve decided to go all out this Halloween by purchasing a brand new animated prop for your party or porch. However, with moving parts, motors, and lights, things don’t always go smoothly. That’s why it’s important to assemble and test your Halloween props well in advance. This way, you can ensure everything functions properly and have ample time to fix any issues that might arise before the big night.
Why Build Early?
Building and testing your Halloween props early gives you peace of mind and saves you from a last-minute scramble. In an ideal world, everything would work smoothly, but as we all know, sometimes things go wrong. By assembling your props in advance, you have time to identify any issues and contact us if you need assistance with tech help or part replacements. We’re always happy to help, but we need time to sort things out for you, so make sure to reach out well before Halloween!
Troubleshooting Your Props
Before you contact us for help, be sure to go through our troubleshooting checklist to rule out common issues. Many problems can be easily fixed by checking a few key areas:
No Sound
- Check & swap batteries: Make sure you’re using fresh, good-quality batteries.
- Avoid rechargeable batteries: These don’t provide enough power for most props.
- Volume check: Ensure the volume dial is turned up.
LEDs Not Working
- Check connections: Make sure all wires are securely connected. Try disconnecting and reconnecting them.
- LED placement: Sometimes LEDs can become dislodged within the prop’s head or body. Check if they’re positioned correctly.
No Movement
- Battery check: Swap out the batteries with new ones (again, avoid rechargeable batteries).
- Motor connection: Ensure the power is properly connected to the motor. If needed, disconnect and reconnect the cables.
- Adaptor check: If it’s a mains-powered prop, ensure the adaptor is properly connected and that the power is on.
- Obstructions: Make sure there are no obstructions to the motor or the prop’s frame.
Props Do’s and Don’ts
To keep your Halloween props in top condition and avoid unnecessary issues, follow these key do’s and don’ts:
Do:
- Build and test your prop on receipt, following the step-by-step instructions.
- Assemble on a solid, level surface to avoid tipping or mechanical issues.
- Keep moving parts clear of debris or obstructions. If used outdoors, make sure to protect your prop from the elements.
- Use only the supplied power adapters to avoid electrical issues.
- Store in a cool, dry place after Halloween. Remove any batteries and ensure the prop is fully dry before storing.
Don’t:
- Avoid rechargeable batteries—they won’t provide enough power for most props. Stick to high-quality standard batteries.
- Never leave your prop outside overnight, especially if it’s not weather-protected.
- Don’t try to speed up drying if your prop gets damp—allow it to air dry naturally.
- Do not store props fully assembled—disassemble them completely to avoid damage or warping.
We’re Here to Help!
If you’ve followed all the troubleshooting tips and still run into problems, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help, but the sooner you contact us, the better. By getting ahead and testing your props early, you’ll avoid the Halloween rush and have time to ensure everything is working perfectly for your spooky display!
Make this Halloween a haunting success by staying prepared and giving your props the attention they need—well before the trick-or-treaters arrive!
