can you put up christmas lights in the rain

Is it OK to have Christmas lights

on in the rain? The possibility of several inches of rain could cause outdoor Christmas lights and decorations to be unsafe. “If your lights go out this time of year, don’t go out in the rain and try to fix them, it will cause more problems than it will solve,” he said.

Full Answer

Can rain ruin your Christmas lights?

Rain can cause indoor flooding and light malfunctions. Christmas lights are a great way to express not just your personality, but your enthusiasm for the holiday season. Along with this holiday cheer, however, the season can also bring rain. No need to let this ruin your holiday.

How do I protect my Christmas lights from rain?

Many homeowners take great pride in their distinctly crafted Christmas lights display. Therefore, they create protective plans for these displays when rain looms. The easiest and most common way to protect a light display, aside from turning it off and unplugging the wires, is to cover the lights.

Can you plug lights outside in the rain?

Don't plug lights into outlets in heavy indoor-outdoor traffic areas where umbrellas, heavy coats, rain boots and animals will track in water. If your outdoor light display is plugged into outlets inside the home or garage, this doesn't guarantee that the lights are safe from the outdoor elements.

Is it safe to have Christmas lights at home?

Christmas lights are a great way to express not just your personality, but your enthusiasm for the holiday season. Along with this holiday cheer, however, the season can also bring rain. No need to let this ruin your holiday. Simply take the proper precautions to ensure the safety of your holiday light display, your home and yourself.

How do you hang Christmas lights when its raining?

Plug the Christmas lights into your Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), or outdoor outlet. Wrap Teflon tape (electrical tape) securely and carefully around the plugs, completely coating the plug to prevent water from getting in and effectively creating a water-tight seal.

Are Christmas lights waterproof?

Although all outdoor lights are waterproof, we would recommend a dry, cool place to keep them in tip top condition and prevent any moisture creeping in. With a little bit of TLC, and ensuring they are completely dry before storage, they should last you for years to come.

Can string lights be left in the rain?

Only use decorative lights made for outdoor use If you're wondering how to waterproof outdoor string lights, the answer is simple. Just as you should ensure that all regular light bulbs you use outside are rated for wet weather, you should do the same for any decorative lighting you choose to purchase.

Can water damage Christmas lights?

LED (light-emitting diode) lights use electricity, making them susceptible to water damage, but they are much more resistant to leaks than traditional incandescent bulbs. Solar lights are another alternative. They remain cool to the touch, meaning that cold rain will not cause the bulbs to burst as hot bulbs might.

How do I protect my Christmas decorations from the rain?

1:122:29Taping The End Of Christmas Lights-Holiday Decorating TipYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBring it over just to cover it. And then rip it and as you can see that's what I have so far andMoreBring it over just to cover it. And then rip it and as you can see that's what I have so far and then all that I like to do is simply wrap it around just like that to seal the electrical tape down.

Is it OK for outdoor lights to get wet?

During winter time, when weather conditions start to worsen, many people wonder whether it's safe for outdoor lights to get wet. So, can outdoor lights get wet? Outdoor lights can get wet as long as their IP rating is waterproof.

How do you protect outdoor Christmas lights from rain?

0:001:04How to Waterproof Outdoor Lighting - Electrical Cord Covers - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst thing you should have are these new domed exterior covers for your outlets. And what's nice isMoreFirst thing you should have are these new domed exterior covers for your outlets. And what's nice is it completely protects the outlet. And your electrical connections from rain and snow.

How do you protect string lights from rain?

How to Protect Your Outdoor String LightsUse Outdoor Rated Bulbs. ... Never Use Worn Strings. ... Use String Lights Meant for Outdoor Use. ... Avoid Leaving Open Sockets. ... Protect Connected Plugs From Water. ... Don't Use Uninsulated Metal Hooks or Staples to Hang String Lights.More items...•

Waterproofing Christmas Lights: A Step-by-Step Guide

The first thing you need to know is that there are waterproof outdoor lights. So, investing in them makes more sense than spending money on other things that can save them.

A DIY Tip To Keep Extension Cords Safe

You don’t always have to spend money on expensive things because sometimes DIY projects work just as fine. For instance, this hack, which will not only save you money but will 100% protect your outdoor Christmas light from shorting out! All you need for this project is a plastic food container and kitchen scissors or knives!

Safety Measures You Should Follow

Now that you know how you can protect your outdoor Christmas lights, don’t think your work is done here. You would still need to take some precautions even if you have followed the whole step-by-step guide.

Conclusion

It can be such a bummer to have outdoor lights short out during the holidays. It kills all the joy, plus you end up working during your off days. I hope this guide on how to keep outdoor Christmas lights from shorting out in the rain can be your savior during these times! Thanks for reading, and I hope you have a wonderful day!

Why do you hang wires across bushes?

Elias says it's important to hang wires instead of leaving them on the ground. One simple solution is to drape wires across bushes to keep them out of puddles. It's also important to use proper wiring, like waterproof outdoor extension cords.

Can Christmas lights get soaked in rain?

One expert said there are simple steps to take to avoid damage. Fred Elias is the owner of Elias ACE Hardware. He says if you don't take the right precautions before the ground is rain-soaked ...

Can I put lights on a damp Christmas tree?

A real tree needs water daily. Don’t let your tree dry out! If the water drops below the base of the tree it will cause a seal of dried sap to form over the cut stump. A fresh cut is needed if a seal forms.

Can you leave Christmas lights on when it rains?

It’s important that everything is dry and not exposed to the elements because the electricity still goes through the equipment and the light portion. He said that the Christmas lights are supposed to be used outside in the rain.

Can you get Christmas lights wet?

There is a chance of several inches of rain, which could cause outdoor Christmas lights and decorations to become electrical hazard. “If your lights go out this time of year, don’t go out in the rain and try to fix them, that’s how bad it can be,” he said. Wait for it to dry. There is a chance of getting an electrical shock from water transfer.

Can string lights be left in the rain?

There are outdoor string lights that can get wet. You can find out how well your outdoor lights are protected by the rating of the intellectual property. You have to make sure the extension cords are rated for use outside.