How do you protect outdoor string lights from rain?

How do you protect outdoor string lights from rain?

How to Protect Your Outdoor String Lights

1. Only Use Outdoor Rated Extension Cords.
2. Use Outdoor Rated Bulbs.
3. Use String Lights Meant for Outdoor Use.
4. Avoid Leaving Open Sockets.
5. Protect Connected Plugs From Water.
6. Don’t Use Uninsulated Metal Hooks or Staples to Hang String Lights.

Can string lights be left in the rain?

As long as you’re using “outdoor” lights, it’s safe to leave them in the rain as they’re built to brave the environment. However, with a connection of string lights, a heavy downpour can blow up the individual fuse in each string light. This usually happens when water bridges the prongs on the plug.

Can outdoor string lights be left out in winter?

Modern outdoor lights are specially designed to be weatherproof and can be hung out all year round. Though most outdoor lights are weatherproof, you should check the wire and lights once a year and try to install them in a cool, dry place if possible to help them last longer.

Can outdoor string lights catch on fire?

Strings with worn or brittle wires should be immediate thrown away as these lights can potentially pose a fire hazard.

Do outdoor extension cords need to be covered?

Try to minimize the amount of extension cord to extension cord connections you make outdoors. If it is completely necessary to connect multiple extension cords, you should invest in a handy extension cord cover, in order to best protect the areas where the two cords meet.

How do you protect outdoor light fixtures?

6 Ways to Protect Outdoor LED Lights

1. Keep Bugs Away.
2. Install Light Shields.
3. Pick the Right Locations.
4. Use Outdoor-Rated Fixtures & Bulbs.
5. Prevent Theft.
6. Include Surge Protectors.

Are outdoor string lights safe?

Tips 4#: Use Outdoor Rated Bulbs While the majority of C7 and C9 bulbs are safe for outdoor use, the same cannot be said for other types of bulbs used in patio light strings. Incandescent bulbs are safe for outdoor use as long as they are protected from direct contact with water.

Are outdoor lights safe in snow?

Make sure your lights are rated for the outdoors A regular lightbulb might work just fine on your porch when there’s no rain or snow, but when moisture creeps in, you could run into trouble. When purchasing outdoor lights, be smart and ensure the lights you buy are made for harsher weather conditions.

When should you take down outdoor Christmas lights?

You can take them down anytime after New Year’s Day, but before January 6th—that’s Three Kings Day and the last of the 12 days of Christmas. Even if your lights celebrate a different faith this holiday season, the Black-Friday-to-Three-Kings-Day window is still a great guideline.

Can I leave string lights on overnight?

Even if your fairy lights meet a certain quality standard and you make sure that they don’t overload a socket, it is completely advised not to leave your fairy lights plugged in all night (or even if you are going out of your house).

How do you hang string lights outside without damaging the ground?

Use a ladder for hard-to-reach spots. Line pathways or walkways with string lights. Weatherproof outdoor tape will help hold them in place so they don’t move throughout the night. Use painter’s tape to fasten string lights beneath a deck railing. Use small, lightweight string lights for this purpose.

Are outdoor lights safe to use indoors?

Rope light, patio light strings, and many Christmas light strings are safe for both indoor and outdoor use. Designed with sturdier materials, these lights can withstand the weather conditions.

What are the advantages of outdoor string lights?

Outdoor string lights can brighten a backyard or a patio space and make warm nights more relaxing and festive. String lights come in a range of styles, bulb types, and colors.

Should I leave sockets empty on my outdoor light strings?

For this reason it is recommended that you avoid leaving sockets empty on outdoor light strings. Failed bulbs should be left in place until you have replacements on hand. The strings will still work even though a few bulbs no longer light. Do you have any additional tips for protecting outdoor light strings?