Author: Dominion Lightworks

The holiday season is over, and it’s time to take down those beautiful Christmas net lights you worked so hard to hang.

But before you throw them into a bag and forget about them for the year, it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to store them properly. 

Doing so ensures they stay in good shape and makes decorating next year a whole lot easier. 

In this post, I’ll show you how to store net lights like a pro — because nobody wants to deal with a tangled mess when the holidays come back around!

#1 Untangle The Lights Before Storing

You’ve probably been there. The holidays end, and you think, “I’ll deal with this mess of tangled lights next year.” But trust me, it’s a lot worse when you’re in a rush to decorate in December. 

Before packing away your net lights, take the time to untangle them. 

Yes, it might take a few minutes, but it will save you time when you pull them out next year.

Spread your nets out on the ground or find a big table, then start working through any tangles you spot. Pay extra attention to the spots where sections connect – they tend to get pretty knotted up. 

You could even hang them up on a hook or a rod as you go, making sure everything stays nice and straight.

Also Read: Can You Cut Christmas Lights?

#2 Roll Up The Lights

Once you’ve got your lights all untangled, the next step is to roll them up. 

Don’t just throw them in a pile! Wrapping them neatly into coils prevents future tangling and keeps everything organized. If you want to go the extra mile, you can use a spool or a piece of cardboard to keep them secure as you roll. 

Just be sure not to wrap them too tightly — you don’t want to damage the wires. 

Once rolled up, you can use twist ties or zip ties to secure the coil and keep it from unwinding. 

This makes it so much easier to pull the lights out next year without dealing with a big mess.

#3 Use Storage Bags Or Bins

Now that your net lights are neatly rolled up, it’s time to think about storage. 

You want something that will protect the lights from dust, moisture, and any potential damage. Don’t just toss them in a random bag or box! 

Plastic bins with secure lids work great because they keep the lights safe from the elements and can be stacked for easy storage. 

Or, you can buy storage bags designed for holiday lights. These are often a little more flexible and portable, plus they usually have compartments to keep everything organized. 

Whatever you choose, just make sure your lights are in a container that will protect them.

Pro tip: throw in some silica gel packets to handle any moisture that might sneak in there.

Also Read: Cat Chewing On Christmas Lights

#4 Avoid Extreme Temperatures

 Where you store your net lights really matters. 

Find a cool, dry spot away from sunlight and temperature swings. 

Skip the attic or garage – they get too hot and too cold. Heat can mess up the plastic parts and wiring, and cold can make the wires break easily. 

A closet or basement works much better. 

Try to keep the temperature between 50-80°F (10-27°C).

Oh and always keep an eye on your storage spot for water problems or unwanted critters that could damage your lights.

#5 Label Or Mark The Storage

If you’re like me, you probably have more than one box of holiday decorations. 

So when it’s time to find those net lights again next year, the last thing you want to do is open every box looking for them. This is where labeling comes in handy. 

Take a few minutes to label your bins or bags. 

You can use masking tape and a marker to note exactly what’s inside. 

If you want to get fancy, a label maker works great for clear, neat labels. 

Marking your storage containers makes it so much easier to grab the right box when it’s time to decorate. You’ll save time and avoid unnecessary digging.

Also Read: Is uplighting worth it?

A quick phone photo of your labels can be super helpful too – you’ll know exactly what you have without digging through storage.

#6 Check The Lights Before Storing

Before you toss your lights into storage, give them one last check. 

This is the perfect time to check for any broken bulbs, frayed wires, or other issues. 

If something’s broken, it’s way easier to fix it now than it will be when you’re trying to hang them up next year. Replace any broken bulbs and make sure the wires are in good condition. 

This will save you from the frustration of discovering a problem when you’re ready to decorate. 

#7 Avoid Overpacking

Don’t try to squeeze too many sets into one container – it’s tempting, but it’s not worth it.

When you pack too tightly, the lights can get damaged, bent, or crushed. 

Instead, use multiple bins if necessary. It’s better to have a couple of smaller containers than to risk cramming everything into one too-big box. 

Plus, having separate bins for different types of lights (like string lights or icicle lights) will help keep everything organized.

You also want to make sure the lights have enough room to stay in good condition.

Try using cardboard dividers or bubble wrap between layers for extra protection. A good trick is to leave about 20% of the container empty – this prevents the lights from getting squished.

Bottom Line

Yes, storing your net lights properly takes some time, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

Storing them in a cool, dry place and labeling everything makes finding them a breeze, while checking for any damage before packing them away ensures your lights are ready to shine. 

Avoid overpacking to prevent damage, and your lights will be good as new next Christmas. 

A little extra care now means less trouble when the holidays roll back around, and who doesn’t want that? Happy decorating (next year)!

Getting your home ready for the holiday season in Virginia?

Professional Christmas light installation can turn your property into a festive wonderland, but it’s important to understand what you’re getting into cost-wise.

In this guide, we’ll break down how much does Christmas light installation cost in Virginia, and the factors that affect your final bill.

We’ll also go over our Christmas light installation prices and the discounts we offer.

Average Christmas Light Installation Costs In Virginia

The average cost for Christmas light installation in Virginia is about $2.50 to $7 per linear foot. You’re generally looking at spending between $100 and $1,200 for an average home.

Here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect:

• Basic Installations (Small to Medium Homes): $250 – $600
• Larger Installations (Medium to Large Homes): $400 – $1,200
• Elaborate Displays (Large Homes with Custom Features): $700 – $1,800+

Remember, these are just ballpark figures – your actual cost could be different based on what you want.

Most people end up paying around $400 for their light installation, which gets you good quality LED lights and a nice, basic design.

Also Check Out Our: Richmond Christmas Light Installation service 

Our Christmas Light Installation Prices

Here’s a breakdown of our Christmas Light Installation prices to help you get started:

These prices are for the basic installation, but if you have any special requests or want something customized, just let us know, and we’ll work out a quote for you.

Front Fascia Lighting

This is the classic look—lights along the front edge of your roof. 

We charge $5.70 per foot of lighting, and the total cost usually ranges from $400 to $900, depending on the size of your home.

If your roof is slate or another material we can’t walk on safely, we charge a bit more for installation at a rate of $7.80 per foot.

Ridgeline Lighting (3D Effect)

For that extra festive touch, we can add lights along the ridgeline of your roof to give it a 3D effect. We charge $7.80 per foot for this service, whether your roof is shingled or another type.

What Affects The Cost Of Christmas Light Installation?

Here are some of the main factors that affects how much christmas lights cost in Virginia:

#1 Size Of The Property

Bigger houses need more lights and take longer to decorate, so they cost more. 

For example, if your house is around 2,000 square feet, you’re probably looking at about $250 – $600 for basic installation. Double that size to 4,000 square feet, and you’re looking at $500 – $1,600 or more. 

Don’t forget about other structures too – detached garages, sheds, or long driveways can all add to the total square footage we need to cover. 

Also Read: Can You Cut Christmas Lights?

Even features like wrap-around porches or multiple roof levels can increase the overall size we need to work with.

#2 Type Of Lights

The type of lights you use will also affect the cost. Professional LED strands usually cost between $15-25 each, while regular incandescent ones go for $5-10.

LED lights cost more to buy at first, but they’ll save you money over time because they use less electricity and last longer.

Regular incandescent lights are cheaper to buy but use more power and need to be replaced more often.

#3 Design Complexity

The more intricate your design, the more it’s going to cost. 

A simple setup along your roofline might run $400-600, but if you want things like animated displays or lights that sync to music, you’re looking at $2,000 or more.

Things like roof peaks, window outlines, and wrapped trees all add to the complexity. 

Plus, we also need to consider whether you want different zones of lights that turn on separately or if you’re looking for special effects like twinkling or fading patterns. 

#4 Labor And Time

You’re paying for skilled professionals and their equipment.

So, the more time and labor it requires to install the lights, the more it costs.

Most installations take 4-8 hours, depending on what you want done. This includes not just hanging the lights but also testing all connections, securing everything properly, and programming any special features.

#5 Timing

When you plan to have your holiday lights installed can really impact the price. 

If you’re aiming to have everything set up right before Christmas or Thanksgiving, expect to pay more. During peak holiday season, installers are in high demand, so they often charge a premium. 

Plus, it might be harder to find available dates that fit your schedule.

On the flip side, if you’re okay with putting up your lights a little earlier (say, in early November) or taking them down after the New Year, you might get a better deal. 

Off-season installation tends to be cheaper since there’s less demand.

Also Read: How To Stop Cat Chewing On Christmas Lights

#6 Additional Services

Extra stuff like putting in new outlets, setting up timers, or programming custom light shows will add to your bill.

New electrical outlets cost $150-250 each, and smart control systems run between $200-500. 

We might also need to install special clips or brackets, add extension cords, or set up weather protection for certain components

#7 Removal Fees

Taking down the lights usually costs between $200-400, depending on how complex your setup is. Some companies include this in their initial price, but others charge extra for it.

Other Things That Could Impact The Price

Beyond the basic installation factors, there are other things that can affect your final cost. 

These might not be obvious at first, but they’re important to keep in mind when planning your holiday display. Some of these are:

#8 Location

Where you live in Virginia matters too. Northern Virginia tends to have higher prices because there’s more demand and costs are higher in general. 

If you’re in a more rural area, you might find better deals. 

Travel time to your location can affect pricing too – if you’re far from your installer’s base of operations, they might add a travel fee.

#9 HOA Regulations

If you live in an HOA community, check their rules first. Some HOAs have specific requirements about what kinds of lights you can use or when they can be installed. 

Sometimes you’ll need extra permits, which can add to your costs. 

HOAs might also restrict certain colors, limit the hours lights can be on, or require specific types of mounting hardware.

#10 Custom Requests

This one is obvious – custom requests will cost more.

Custom designs, special color combinations, themed displays or one-of-a-kind displays will usually add 20-30% to your bill. 

This might include creating custom light patterns, more electrical work, matching specific color schemes, or designing displays that incorporate unique features of your home. 

Bottom Line

Professional Christmas light installation in Virginia costs around $2.50 to $7 per linear foot.

But here’s the thing: you’re paying for convenience, safety, and a professional job. You won’t have to climb any ladders, and you’ll get a holiday display that’ll have your neighbors asking who did your lights.

Plus, you won’t have to worry about storing all those lights when the season’s over.

Want to get the best deal? Book early, go with LED lights (they’ll save you money in the long run), and check out available discounts. 

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve got a cat and you’re gearing up for the holidays. 

Putting up Christmas lights when you have a curious kitty can be a bit of a challenge. You might have noticed your furry friend eyeing those twinkling lights with a little too much interest. 

Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this.

In this post, I’ll explain why cats like chewing on Christmas lights, how dangerous it is, and how to make them stop.

Why Do Cats Chew On Christmas Lights?

Cats are naturally curious creatures. 

To them, these strings of lights might look like the most exciting new toy in town. The way they move slightly or catch the light can trigger that hunter instinct our cats have. 

And let’s not forget, some cats just love to chew on things, and those wires might feel pretty good on their teeth.

Some kitties might even be drawn to the warmth of the lights or just intrigued by this new thing that’s suddenly appeared in their territory.

Also Read: LED Christmas Lights Dim

How Dangerous Is It For A Cat To Chew On Christmas Lights?

Chewing on Christmas lights can be extremely dangerous for a cat. The biggest risk is electrocution which can cause nasty burns in your cat’s mouth or, in the worst case, be fatal. 

This risk goes up if you’re using older lights with wires that might be wearing thin. 

But that’s not all. If your kitty manages to break a bulb, they could end up swallowing sharp pieces of glass or toxic chemicals found in some lights. 

Even if nothing bad happens right away, a cat that keeps chewing on wires could damage them enough to start an electrical fire in your home.

How To Cat Proof Christmas Lights

Don’t worry, you don’t have to choose between your cat and your Christmas spirit. There are plenty of ways to keep cats from chewing christmas lights:

#1 Keep Lights Higher

This one’s pretty straightforward. If your cat can’t reach the lights, they can’t chew on them. 

Try decorating the upper parts of your Christmas tree or hang lights up high in your room. 

You might have to skip putting lights on the lower branches or along the floor, but it’s worth it.

Also Read: Can you cut christmas lights

#2 Cover Wires

Exposed wires are like an invitation for curious cats. So, let’s hide them! 

You can buy cord covers or tubing made for electrical wires.They come in different colors, so you can match them to your decorations.

These covers will make the wires harder for your cat to get at and less fun to chew on.

If you want to go the extra mile, try wrapping the wires in aluminum foil. Most cats aren’t fans of how it feels or sounds. Or try split loom tubing.

Bonus: it makes your light display look super neat and organized.

#3 Use Deterrent Sprays

Cats have strong opinions about smells, and we can use that to our advantage. 

There are sprays out there that cats really don’t like – like citrus or bitter apple. Spray these around your lights (not on them), and your cat might decide they’re not so interesting after all. 

Just remember to reapply the spray every now and then, especially if you notice your cat getting curious about the lights again.

Some people even switch between different scents to keep their cats guessing.

#4 Create A Barrier

Sometimes, the best defense is a good offense. 

Put something between your cat and the lights. You could use a tree skirt or a little fence around your Christmas tree. They look festive and keep the kitty out.

Or you can keep the tree in a room that can be closed off when you’re not home.

For other light displays, try clear plastic sheets or decorative screens. This way, you can still see and enjoy your lights, but your cat can’t get to them.

Also Read: No plug outside for christmas lights

#5 Unplug When Not in Use

Here’s an easy one – when you’re not around to keep an eye on things, unplug those lights. 

No power means no risk of your cat getting shocked, and cool wires are less interesting to cats than warm ones. And it saves energy too, which is always a plus. 

Make it a habit to unplug before you leave the house or go to bed.

If you’re forgetful (no judgment here), try getting smart plugs or timers. They can turn your lights on and off automatically.

#6 Negative Reinforcement

Now, we usually prefer to reward good behavior in cats, but sometimes you need to discourage the bad stuff, especially when it’s dangerous. 

This doesn’t mean punishing your cat, just making them associate the lights with something they don’t like.

You could use a spray bottle to give them a little spritz of water if they go for the lights, or make a loud noise to startle them away.

#7 Use Low-Voltage Lights

Have you thought about switching to LED Christmas lights?

They use less power, don’t get hot, and come in all sorts of colors and styles. This means if your cat does manage to get to them, the risk is much lower. 

Plus, many LED sets have cool features like dimming or different light patterns. 

You might even find a setting that your cat finds less interesting, which is a win-win.

Wrapping Up

Keeping your cat from chewing on Christmas lights takes a bit of work, but it’s totally doable. 

Mix and match these strategies to find what works best for you and your cat. Remember, no single method is perfect, so keep an eye on how your cat behaves around your decorations. 

If your kitty just won’t leave those lights alone, it might be time to rethink your decorating style.

FAQs

Can A Cat Get Electrocuted From Chewing On Christmas Lights?

Yes, a cat can get electrocuted from chewing on Christmas lights. The electrical current running through the lights can cause serious injuries or even be fatal.

Cat Ate Christmas Light Bulb

If your cat ate a Christmas light bulb, call your vet right away. The glass could hurt their mouth, throat, and stomach.

Do Cats Like Christmas Lights?

They don’t necessarily like Christmas lights, but some cats may be curious about them and may try to play with or chew on them.

It’s that time of year again when we’re all trying to make our homes look festive with Christmas lights. 

But what do you do when those LED strings are just too long for where you want to put them? 

You might be wondering if you can just cut them to size. 

Well, it’s not as simple as you might think. 

In this post, I’ll explain if you can cut Christmas lights. We’ll take a look at how Christmas lights work and figure out if cutting them is really a good idea.

How Christmas Lights Are Wired

Before we talk about cutting lights, we need to understand how these are wired. 

Christmas lights usually come in two main types of wiring: series and parallel.

In a series circuit, the electricity goes through each bulb one after another. If one bulb goes out or gets taken out, the whole string goes dark. Most of the newer mini lights and LED Christmas light strings are wired this way.

Also Read: No Outside Outlets For Christmas Lights

Parallel circuits are different. Each bulb has its own direct connection to the power source. So if one bulb dies, the rest of the string stays lit.

The bigger, old-school C7 and C9 bulbs usually use this kind of wiring.

Can You Cut Christmas Lights Wired in Series? 

You should NOT cut Christmas lights that are wired in series. That includes most LED light strings and mini incandescent lights. 

These lights are supposed to work as a complete circuit, and cutting them can cause problems.

What Happens If You Cut Them?

Cutting series-wired lights can create an electrical imbalance. 

When you take bulbs out of a series circuit, it changes how the voltage is distributed across the remaining bulbs. This can make the lights burn way brighter than they should, which can make them burn out super fast or even fail right away.

Plus, if you don’t modify them correctly, you could end up with electrical shorts or overheating, which could be a fire hazard. 

In a lot of cases, cutting series-wired lights will just make the whole string or a big part of it stop working altogether.

Exceptions And Cautions

Some LED light strings are made with multiple series sections wired in parallel. In theory, if you can figure out where these sections are, you might be able to cut between them. 

Also Read: Christmas Lights Keep Blowing Fuse

But here’s the thing: you’d need to really know what you’re doing with the specific design and electrical stuff in that light string.

Unless you’re an electrician or engineer who knows their stuff, it’s probably best to just leave these types of lights alone.

Can You Cut Christmas Lights Wired in Parallel?

Parallel-wired Christmas lights (usually the bigger C7 or C9 types) are generally safe to cut. 

Each bulb in these strings operates independently and gets full voltage straight from the power source. This means you can usually cut between any two bulbs without messing up the rest of the string.

How To Cut Parallel-Wired Xmas Lights

If you decide to go ahead and cut parallel-wired lights, here’s what you should do:

1. Make sure the lights are unplugged. Seriously, don’t skip this step!
2. Find a spot between two bulbs where you want to make your cut.
3. Get some wire cutters and cleanly cut through the wires.
4. Seal up the cut ends with weatherproof wire nuts or electrical tape to prevent any short circuits or electrical problems.

Just remember, cutting these lights will definitely void any warranty, so you’re at your own risk.

Advanced Methods For Cutting LED Lights

For those of you who really know your electrical stuff, there are ways to modify LED light strings. 

You’d need to figure out individual segments in the Xmas light string, measure the current flow, and carefully splice wires to keep everything working right. 

You’d need tools like a digital multimeter and a soldering iron, plus a really good understanding of how the light string is designed.

To be honest, this kind of modification is complicated, takes a lot of time, and can be pretty risky. 

Only try this if you really know what you’re doing, and remember that it’ll void any product warranty and could be dangerous if you mess it up.

Alternatives To Cutting Christmas Lights

Given all the risks and hassles that come with cutting Christmas lights, it might even be a good idea to look at some other options.

Here are a few ideas:

Get Creative

One of the easiest ways to deal with extra light strings is to just get creative with how you arrange it. Instead of trying to make a perfectly straight line, why not use the extra length to make some cool loops or swags? 

This can actually make your display look more interesting, turning a problem into a cool feature. 

You could also wrap the extra length around tree trunks, pillars, or other parts of your house to make your light display more three-dimensional.

Hide The Extra Bulbs

Sometimes, you can just hide the extra length where no one will see it. 

If you’re decorating a Christmas tree, you can tuck extra lights deeper into the branches where they’ll be hidden but still add to the overall glow. 

When you’re decorating outside, you might be able to hide extra length behind gutters, in bushes, or along the back of a railing. 

This way, you can use the whole string without changing anything or wasting lights.

Also Read: LED Christmas Lights Dim

Cover The Lights With Tape

For LED strings, you can use dark electrical tape to cover up bulbs you don’t want to light up. 

This basically “turns off” specific lights without cutting the wire or messing with the electrical circuit. Plus, you can undo later if you want to.

So this lets you customize your light pattern or length without permanently changing anything.

Just make sure to use good quality electrical tape that can handle outdoor conditions if you’re using this method on outside decorations.

Multiple Shorter Strands

Instead of using one long strand that you need to cut, think about using multiple shorter strands connected end-to-end. This gives you more flexibility in how you set up your lights.

Plus, it makes it easier to replace sections if they stop working. 

A lot of light strings are made to connect safely end-to-end, so you can customize your total length without any cutting.

Some stores even sell light strings or spools of lights that you can customize to the length you need. These are made to be cut safely at certain points, so you create custom lengths.

Bottom Line

You can cut Christmas lights that are wired in parallel, but cutting series-wired LED and mini light strings is not a great idea. The risks outweigh the benefits, and you could end up with lights that don’t work or even create safety hazards.

Instead of cutting, try some of the other alternative methods we’ve talked about. 

Are your Christmas LED lights suddenly dim?

Don’t worry, you’re not the only one scratching your head over this.

There are a few reasons why this might be happening, and the good news is that you can often fix it with some simple troubleshooting.

In this post, I’ll explain why your LED Christmas lights are dim and how to fix it.

Why Are My LED Christmas Lights Dim?

LED Christmas lights can dim for various reasons. It could be something in their environment or an issue with their inner workings. Let me break down the most common reasons:

Also Read: No Outside Outlets For Christmas Lights?

#1 Temperature Effects

Did you know that your LED lights can be sensitive to the cold? 

It’s true! When the temperature drops, especially outdoors during those chilly winter months, your LED lights might respond by dimming. 

The cold weather affects how electricity flows through the lights, which makes them dimmer than they do in warmer conditions. 

So if your outdoor Christmas lights are looking a bit dull, the chilly weather might be to blame.

Want to test this? Try bringing a string of lights inside and see if they light up in the warmer air.

#2 Damaged, Loose, Or Twisted Connections

The way your LED lights are connected is super important. If the connections between bulbs and wires are damaged, loose, or twisted, it can interrupt the flow of electricity. 

This interruption means less power gets to each bulb, which will make your LED Christmas lights dim or even cause parts of the string to go out.

This can happen anywhere along the string – where the bulbs connect to the main wire or where you’ve joined multiple strings together. 

Even small disruptions in these connections can affect the brightness of your LEDs.

Also check out our Christmas light installation services in Richmond

#3 Damaged Or Worn Out Resistors

Now, let’s get a bit technical. Inside each LED Christmas light string, there are these little components called resistors. They’re job is to control how much electricity flows to the LEDs.

Over time, these resistors can wear out or get damaged. 

When this happens, they start resisting too much electricity, which means less power reaches the bulbs. The result? Your entire string of lights looks dimmer than it should. 

This is often why older light strings lose their brightness even if the bulbs are still working.

#4 Power Source Issues

The power source of your lights can make a big difference in how bright they shine too. 

If you’ve got your lights hooked up to a timer or switch that doesn’t provide clean AC power, they might look dim.

Make sure whatever you’re using to power your lights plays nice with LED technology. 

Also, keep an eye out for faulty outlets or old extension cords – these can reduce the juice getting to your lights. Try plugging your lights into different outlets and see if that brightens things up.

#5 Overloading The Circuit

When you’re in the holiday spirit, it’s easy to get carried away and plug in string after string of lights. But here’s the thing – if you overload a circuit, all your lights might end up looking dim too.

Each electrical outlet or circuit in your home has a limit to how much power it can provide.

When you exceed this limit by connecting too many strings, the electricity gets spread thin.

As a result, all the lights connected to that overloaded circuit may appear dim, even if they’re perfectly fine individually.

So, always keep track of how many strings of lights you’re plugging in, and if it’s a lot, think about spreading them out over different outlets.

Also Read: Christmas Lights Keep Blowing Fuse

How To Brighten Dim LED Christmas Lights

Okay, now that you know what might be causing the problem, let’s talk about what to do if your LED Christmas lights are dim:

Check Connections

Start by taking a good look at all the connections on your light strings. 

Look for anything that seems off – damage, rust, or loose parts. Gently tighten any connections that feel loose and make sure all the bulbs are snugly in place. 

If you’re using multiple strings, pay extra attention to where they join up. 

Sometimes, just making sure everything is properly connected can solve your dimming issues.

Test With A Multimeter

If you’re comfortable using a multimeter (and don’t worry if you’re not – it’s not for everyone), it can be super helpful in figuring out power problems. 

Measure the voltage at the start and end of your light string. If there’s a big drop in voltage along the string, it could mean there’s an issue with the wiring or something inside the lights. 

This test can help you figure out if the problem is with the lights themselves or where they’re getting their power from.

Replace Faulty Bulbs

Sometimes, one bad apple can spoil the bunch – or in this case, one faulty LED can dim the whole string. Take a close look at each bulb and see if any look different from the others. 

If you spot any odd ones out, try replacing them. 

Many LED Christmas light sets come with extra bulbs, so this is an easy fix to try.

Inspect The Resistor

This is a bit more advanced, so don’t worry if it’s not your cup of tea. 

If you’re comfortable working with small electronic bits, you might want to check out the resistors in your light strings. Look for any signs that they’re wearing out. 

If you’re up for it, replacing them with better quality components might brighten the dim LED Christmas lights.

Wrapping Up

Dealing with dim LED Christmas lights can be a pain, but with a little detective work, you can often get them shining bright again. 

Start with the easy stuff like checking for temperature effects and loose connections. 

If that doesn’t do the trick, you can dig deeper into power sources and internal components. 

Remember, if you’re ever not sure about doing electrical stuff yourself, it’s always better to ask someone for help.

Feeling a bit bummed because you don’t have any outdoor outlets for your Christmas lights?

Don’t let that dim your holiday spirit! I’ve got some great news for you: 

There are plenty of cool ways to light up your home for the holidays without outdoor outlets!

In this post, I’ll share seven great ideas. From quick fixes to long-term solutions, I’ve got something for every home and budget!

#1 Light Socket Adapters

If you have no outside outlets for Christmas lights, the best solution is a light socket adapter.

These are pretty nifty devices that you can screw into your existing outdoor light fixtures. They basically turn your light socket into a power source for your Christmas lights. 

You just screw it in, and voila – you’ve got an outlet right where you need it. 

It’s super handy for porch lights or garage lights. 

And the cool thing is, you can still use the original light bulb too. 

Just make sure you get one that’s meant for outdoor use and can handle the power of both your regular bulb and the Christmas lights. 

And of course, don’t overload it – safety first, right?

Also Read: Christmas Lights Keep Blowing Fuse

#2 Extension Cords

Now, if you’ve got a garage, you’re in luck. Most garages have electrical outlets, and you can use these to power your outdoor lights.

Get yourself a good, long extension cord – make sure it’s the outdoor-rated kind. 

Then, run it along the walls of your garage to keep it out of the way. When you get to the garage door, just run it along one side of the door opening. 

Don’t worry about closing the door on it – most garage doors have little gaps and a rubber thing at the bottom, so the cord will be fine. 

If you absolutely have to use a window for your cord, make sure to use some foam weatherstripping or one of those special cord pass-through insulators. 

It’ll keep your heating bill from going through the roof.

#3 Outdoor Wall Lantern With Power Outlet

Here’s another cool option – you get an outdoor wall lantern that has a built-in power outlet.

These cool fixtures do double duty: they light up your outdoor space and give you a handy spot to plug in your Christmas lights.

When you’re picking a spot for these, think about where you’ll want your lights. They’re super useful near doorways, on patios, or along the front of your house.

But just make sure you get a professional electrician to install them. 

They can make sure everything’s wired up properly and meets all the local building codes.

#4 Small Portable Power Station

Another solution for no outside outlets for Christmas lights, is a small portable power station..

Portable power stations are basically large, rechargeable batteries with multiple outlets to power various electronic devices. Think of them as a versatile power bank on steroids.

Also Read: Patio Atmosphere With Outdoor Lighting

You just charge them up by plugging them into a wall outlet inside your house – it usually takes about six hours. 

Some of them can even be charged in your car or with a solar panel, which is pretty cool. 

Once it’s charged up, you just take it outside and plug your lights right into it. If you need to cover more ground, you can use an extension cord with it too. 

It’s great because you can put lights pretty much anywhere you want, not just near outlets. 

Just remember to bring the power station inside or cover it up when you’re not using it – you don’t want it getting damaged by the weather.

#5 Solar-Powered Lights

If you’re into eco-friendly stuff, you might want to check out solar-powered Christmas lights. 

These have little solar panels that charge up during the day, and then the lights come on at night. 

They’re super easy to set up because you don’t need to worry about plugging them in anywhere. 

You can put them wherever you want, as long as the spot gets enough sunlight.

Now, I’ll be honest – they might not be quite as bright as regular electric lights.

But solar-powered lights have a lot going for them. They’re good for the environment, can save you money in the long run, and you can put them pretty much anywhere around your yard.

When you’re shopping for these, pay attention to how long the battery lasts, how bright the lights are, and how well the panel charges up.

Also Read: Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Every Home Style

#6 Battery-Operated Lights

Another way to go cord-free is with battery-operated Christmas lights. 

These come in all sorts of styles, and they run on regular batteries or rechargeable packs. 

You can put them pretty much anywhere, which is great for spots that are far from power outlets or where cords would be a hassle or a safety risk.

That said, you’ll still need to change or recharge the batteries now and then

But IMHO not having to deal with electrical cords can be really convenient and safer too. 

When you’re picking out battery-operated lights, check how long the batteries last, how bright the lights are, and whether they have cool features like timers or remote controls to make them easier to use.

#7 Install An Outdoor Outlet

Now, if you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you might want to think about installing some outdoor outlets. 

I know, it sounds like a big job, and it can cost around $150 – $260. But once it’s done, you’ll have power wherever you need it, not just for Christmas lights but for all sorts of outdoor stuff.

You’ll definitely want to get a professional electrician to do this – it’s not really a DIY kind of thing.

They’ll make sure everything’s installed properly and follow all the building and safety codes. 

They can also help you figure out the best spots for outdoor outlets based on how you usually use them and how your property is laid out.

Bottom Line

So there you have it – seven different ways to light up your house, even if you have no outside outlets for Christmas lights.

I’d recommend going with something simple like a light socket adapter or an extension cord, but if you are ok with spending a bit more, do try out the other ideas.

Do not let an outlet stop you from getting into the holiday spirit!

Nothing can dampen the holiday spirit faster than a string of dark lights. 

If you’re tired of constantly replacing fuses, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Many people face this annoying issue every year.

In this post, I’ll shed some light on why your Christmas lights keep blowing fuses, and what to do about it. I’ll also give you some tips to prevent it from happening again too. 

Why Do My Christmas Lights Keep Blowing Fuse

First things first, let’s get to the bottom of why this keeps happening. 

There are a few usual suspects you need to look at:

#1 Connecting Too Many Strands

The most common reason why Christmas lights blow fuses is because there are too many strands connected together.

Most light sets come with instructions about how many you can string together. 

Usually, it’s about two or three strands for normal incandescent lights. 

If you go overboard and string together too many, you are asking the fuse to handle more than it was designed for. You’ll end up overloading the circuit and – poof! – there goes your fuse.

Also Read: Top Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Every Home Style

#2 Damaged Or Frayed Wires

The next most common reason is damaged or frayed wires.

Our Christmas lights go through quite a bit. We string them up, take them down, and sometimes they might not get stored as carefully as they should between seasons.

Over time, this wear and tear can crack the insulation or fray the wires, especially near the plug ends or where they connect to the bulbs.

Exposed wires like these can create short circuits, where electricity takes an unintended path.

This irregular flow of electricity causes the fuse to blow, acting like a shut-off valve to prevent further damage.

#3 Overloaded Circuits

Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the lights but with the electrical circuit they’re plugged into.

Think about all the holiday decorations we use – multiple strands of lights, inflatable decorations, maybe even those cool animated displays.

If you plug too many of these into the same outlet or circuit, you might be asking it to handle more electricity than it’s designed for. 

When a circuit is overloaded like this, the fuse will blow as a protective measure.

This is especially common in older homes with less robust electrical systems.

#4 Faulty Or Damaged Bulbs

Here’s something that might surprise you – sometimes a single faulty bulb can cause problems for an entire string of lights.

A bad bulb can create what we call a short circuit.

This means the electricity is taking an unintended path through the circuit.

When this happens, it can lead to a sudden increase in electrical current, which in turn causes the fuse to blow.

The tricky part is that it’s not always obvious which bulb is causing the problem. A faulty bulb might look perfectly fine, or it might appear dim or flicker intermittently.

Also Check Out Our Christmas Light Installation Services.

#5 Corroded Bulb Contacts

Last but certainly not least, is a cause that often goes unnoticed – corrosion on bulb contacts. 

This is rather common on outdoor lights that are exposed to the elements. Over time, moisture and air can cause the metal contacts on the bulbs to corrode. 

You might notice a greenish or white crusty substance on the metal parts. This corrosion increases the resistance in the circuit. 

What does that mean? Well, when electricity encounters resistance, it generates heat. 

If there’s too much resistance, it can cause overheating, which in turn can lead to a blown fuse. 

What To Do If Christmas Light Fuse Keeps Blowing

Now that we’ve identified some potential problems, let’s talk about how to fix them. And don’t worry, you don’t need to be an electrical whiz to tackle this.

Look For Visible Damage To Wires Or Bulbs

First things first, take a close look at your light strings. 

Are there any frayed wires? Loose connections? Cracked bulbs? 

Any of these could be the issue. 

Don’t rush this part – really examine those lights. Check every inch of the wire, paying extra attention to the areas near the plug and where the wire meets each bulb. 

If you spot any damage, that strand might need to retire from your holiday display.

Test Each Strand Separately

If you can’t spot any obvious damage, it’s time to test each strand individually. 

Plug each one into an outlet by itself and see what happens.

This can help you figure out if the problem is with a particular strand or if it only occurs when you connect multiple strands.

Start with one strand and work your way through your collection. 

If a single strand works fine on its own but causes issues when connected to others, you might be dealing with an overload problem.

Also Read: Lighting Up Your Walkways and Driveways for Safety

Clean Bulb Contacts And Use Dielectric Grease

Remember what we talked about corrosion? Here’s how to deal with it.

Gently clean each bulb’s metal contacts with some fine steel wool or a small wire brush. Be careful not to damage the bulb or the socket. 

Once they’re clean, apply a tiny bit of dielectric grease to the contacts. 

This not only helps improve conductivity but also helps prevent future corrosion.

Replace Blown Fuses With The Right Ratings

When you’re replacing blown fuses, make sure you use the right ones. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications and use fuses with the correct amperage rating. 

It might be tempting to use a higher-rated fuse to stop it from blowing, but this is a big no-no. 

It’s there to protect you, so let it do its job!

If you’re not sure what fuse to use, don’t guess – check the packaging or their website.

How To Stop Xmas Lights from Blowing The Fuse Again

The best way to deal with this problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. 

Here are some of my tips to keep your lights shining bright:

• Stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines about how many strands you can connect.
• Think about switching to LED lights. They’re usually more forgiving about how many you can connect, and they’re better for your energy bill too.
• For outdoor decorations, use extension cords and outlets that are rated for outdoor use.
• When the holidays are over, store your lights carefully to avoid damaging the wire. A little care now means less hassle next year.
• At the start of each holiday season, give your lights a thorough inspection and cleaning.
• Spread your light displays across different circuits to avoid overloading any one circuit.

Follow these tips and I can promise you, your Christmas lights will never blow the fuse again!

Bottom Line

Dealing with Christmas lights that keep blowing fuses can be a real pain, but now you know why it happens, how to fix it and how to avoid it in the first place.

Always remember, safety comes first when you’re dealing with anything electrical.

If you’re ever unsure about something, it’s always best to ask a professional electrician for help.