Outdoor Landscape Lighting

Outdoor Lighting Tips for Holiday Lighting

When it comes to home lighting, the  holiday season is probably the most challenging time of year.  Use these six tips to plan ahead and you will be on your way to a successful  holiday lighting season.

1. Err On The Side of Caution

The first step in successful outdoor holiday lighting is erring on the side of caution. You should always use a  ladder that is safe and sturdy and never secure your  lights using nails, tacks, screws, or staples. Instead, use electrical tape or special clips designed for outdoor lighting. Check all of your bulbs before installing your lights, and always turn off outdoor lights when you leave the house or go to sleep.

2. Use Outdoor Extension Cords and Lights

Outdoor Lighting Tips for Holiday Lighting When it comes to your extension cords and lights, it is still about safety first. Only use extension cords and lights that are rated for outdoor use. In addition, only use waterproof lights that  have a UL label (Underwriters Lab), which means that they meet national industry standards. Your extension cords should be kept away from snow and water as well as high-traffic areas.

3. Choose the Right Bulbs

There are so many choices of suitable bulbs  for your holiday lighting design. Traditional C7 and C9 bulbs are the typical cone-shaped lights that come in long strands. C9 bulbs have a higher wattage, making them larger and easier to view from far away. When hanging these lights, remember to follow the rule of 3 – a basic plug can only handle about three strands of these lights. LED lights in either white or multicolored strings are ideal for any application.  And spotlights with stake-in-the-ground holders provide an easy way to highlight a front door decoration.

4. Check the Power Wattage

Keeping in line with safety measures, you should also always check your power wattage. First, take the wattage of your bulbs and multiply that by the number of sockets. Then, divide this by 115 and you will have the total amps. Never exceed 10% of the total amps that the wire you are using is rated for.

5. Find Easier Lighting Options

When choosing the types of lights that you will use, go for easier options to simplify the process. For example, miniature bulbs will use less power. Landscape net lighting is easier to drape over shrubs rather than weaving strands of lights. Animated lighting can be set up to depict a scene or display, and shimmer spheres twinkle and are easy to hang.

6. Call in the Professionals

Last but not least, great  holiday lighting sometimes means calling in the professionals. If you want to hang lights on your roof but do not have roofing experience, it is best to call a pro to ensure that you do not end up hurting yourself in the process.

 

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