Create a Safe (But Festive!) Outdoor Lighting Display

Whether your holiday decorating style is over-the-top or more understated, one thing is certain: safety should always come first. Using the wrong type of lights or installing them improperly can lead to serious risks, including fires and injuries. 

But don’t worry – you can still create an outdoor lighting display that wows the neighborhood without causing an insurance claim! Here’s how to keep your decorations both festive and secure this holiday season. 

Safe Light Installation Tips for Houston Homeowners 

Houston homeowners enjoy a unique advantage when it comes to outdoor holiday decorating: no snow or freezing temperatures to contend with! However, rain and humidity can pose challenges, making weatherproof lighting and proper installation essential. 

To minimize electrical hazards and maximize holiday cheer, follow these safety tips:

• Use only lights and cords designed for outdoor use. Indoor-rated products lack the necessary insulation to withstand the elements. 
• Before hanging lights, check for frayed wires, broken sockets, or damaged connections. Replace anything that’s worn or unsafe. 
• Invest in lights that have the “UL” label indicating they were tested and inspected for safety. 
• Use extension cords that are the correct length and never connect multiple cords together. 
• Avoid connecting more than three strands of lights to a single string, which can overload the system. 
• Plug into ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI ) outlets. These outlets automatically cut power if there’s a fault, protecting you and your home from electrical hazards. 

Choosing the Best Lights for Outdoor Use 

When shopping for holiday lights, it’s important to confirm they’re rated for outdoor use. Outdoor lights are built to withstand exposure to moisture, temperature changes, and other environmental factors that indoor lights cannot handle. Using the wrong type of lights can lead to hazards, increased fire risk, and damage to your decorations. 

Consider Power Requirements for Outdoor Lights

Outdoor decorations often require more power than indoor lights due to their larger size and brightness needs. Be sure to check the wattage and power demands of your outdoor lights to ensure compatibility with your electrical system and prevent overloading circuits.

Recommended Outdoor Lighting Options

• C9 LED Christmas Lights: These classic holiday lights, like the Holiday Bright Lights C9 LED String Lights, are perfect for outlining your home’s roofline or large outdoor trees. They are weather-resistant, energy-efficient, and available in festive colors. 
• Net Lights for Shrubs: For bushes and hedges, net lights such as Twinkly Pre-Lit LED Net Lights provide even more coverage and are specifically designed for outdoor use. They come in multi-color and warm white options. 
• Outdoor LED Projection Lights: Add a festive touch with Star Shower Motion Laser Lights, which projects designs like snowflakes or stars onto your home. These are easy to set up and eliminate the need for multiple light strands. 
• Outdoor Pathway Lights: Sylvania Candy Cane Pathway Markers are as decorative as they are functional, lighting walkways with a festive holiday design. 

Get More Holiday Light Safety Tips From Mister Sparky 

Lighting up your home for the holidays is one of the season’s greatest joys, and with a little preparation, it can also be one of the safest. The licensed electricians at Mister Sparky are here to help Houston homeowners power even the most elaborate displays with ease. Whether you need upgraded outlets, additional circuits or expert advice, we’ve got you covered.

Call (281) 907-8418 to ensure your home is ready for a safe, festive, and beautiful holiday season!