How to Choose the Best Rated Outdoor Christmas Lights

It’s that time of year again and you’re ready to deck the halls with holiday cheer. Nothing says it quite like a string of twinkling lights wrapped around the tree or outlining the porch. But before you start hanging them up, it’s important to find the best rated outdoor Christmas lights for your space. With so many shapes, sizes, and colors, how do you decide which ones will be the brightest and most festive for your home?

Lighting up the holiday season is no small feat, but we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to find the best-rated outdoor Christmas lights. We’ll discuss the different styles of lights, what to look for in terms of quality, and safety tips when using these decorations. So don your Santa hat, grab a cup of cocoa, and let’s get started!

Types of Lights

When it comes to outdoor Christmas lights, there are a variety of styles and designs to choose from. Each style has its own unique look and feel and can be used to achieve different visual effects. Here are some of the most popular types of outdoor Christmas lights:

Incandescent lights: These are the traditional Christmas lights that have been around for years. They emit a soft, warm glow, and many come with energy-saving options.

LED lights: LED lights are becoming increasingly more popular for outdoor Christmas lights because they’re energy-efficient and long-lasting. They come in a range of colors and are often more cost-effective than other types of lights.

Fiber optic lights: Fiber optic lights are great for areas that require more sparkle and shine. They come in many different colors and emit a rainbow of light.

Projector lights: Projector lights are perfect for adding a festive flair to your outdoor space. They project images onto the walls or ground, giving your home a unique, eye-catching look.

Things To Look For In Quality

No matter which type of outdoor Christmas lights you choose, it’s important to make sure they are high-quality and safe to use. Before you buy, here are a few things to consider when shopping for the best rated outdoor Christmas lights:

IP Rating: Make sure the lights you choose have an IP rating of at least IP44. This rating indicates that the lights are safe to use outdoors and will protect against water, dust, and dirt.

Weather-resistant: Look for lights that are weather-resistant, meaning they can handle colder temperatures and inclement weather.

Brightness: Make sure the lights are bright enough for your outdoor space. Too dim and they won’t have the same impact, too bright and it can look overwhelming.

Safety: Most outdoor Christmas lights come with safety features such as timers and automatic shut-off features. Make sure your lights have these features to ensure your home is safe and secure.

Safety Tips

Once you’ve selected the perfect set of outdoor Christmas lights, it’s important to keep safety in mind when installing and using them. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe during the holiday season:

Check cords: Make sure all cords and plugs are in good condition before using them. Replace any frayed or damaged cords to avoid any potential hazards.

Don’t overload circuits: It’s easy to overload circuits when using multiple strands of Christmas lights. Make sure to spread out the lights on different circuits to reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock.

Use GFCI outlets: If you’re setting up outdoor Christmas lights near water, make sure to use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet. This will help to protect you from electric shock if the lights come into contact with water.

Keep ladders secure: When hanging lights, make sure to use a secure ladder and check for stability before climbing. This will help to prevent any falls or injuries.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect set of outdoor Christmas lights isn’t always easy, but with a little research and planning, you can find the best rated outdoor Christmas lights for your home. Whether you choose classic incandescent lights or go for something more modern, just make sure to keep safety in mind when installing and using them. Happy decorating!

Outdoor Christmas Lights