Create a Dazzling, Decorative Display!
Outdoor Christmas lights create a magical and festive atmosphere. Without suitable care, though, they can be a safety risk. Remember Clark Griswold’s epic light display in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? While calling it impressive would certainly be an understatement, the electrical chaos he caused is a reminder that it’s important to know how to safely power outdoor Christmas lights.
Whether you’re hanging fairy lights on your living Christmas tree or setting up an elaborate outdoor lights display, safety must come first. Taking the proper precautions prevents avoidable hazards like exposed wires, overloaded circuits or electric shock. Each of these can result in damage to your home or harm to you and your family.
Follow these simple tips and enjoy a stunning, safe and stress-free outdoor Christmas light display.
Choose the Right Lights for Outdoor Use
Choosing the right lights and decorations for your Christmas display is the first step to creating a festive and safe environment.
If you’re hanging lights outside on the roof of your home, always choose IP-rated lights suitable for outdoor use. Indoor lights, even extra low-voltage lights, just aren’t designed for the elements.
Look for Australian-compliant outdoor lights with proper weatherproofing and insulated pins to meet strict electrical safety standards. Modern options like LED lights and solar-powered lights are great choices—they’re energy-efficient, durable and safe for outdoor use.
Don’t use old Christmas lights or opt for buying Christmas lights online from overseas. Non-compliant lights that don’t meet Australian standards can be a fire risk.
Check Your Lights Before Use
Before you turn on your outdoor lights, take the time to examine each string of them thoroughly. Check for potential issues like:
- broken bulbs
- frayed wires
- worn out electrical leads
Any of these can pose a serious safety risk that results in electric shock or fire hazard.
If you’re reusing last year’s Christmas decorations, make sure they’re still in good condition and meet current electrical equipment safety requirements. Check for exposed wires or damage to the factory-made extension cords and replace any faulty components immediately.
Set Up Outdoor Electrical Connections Correctly
Setting up outdoor electrical connections is the key to having a dazzling and safe Christmas light display.
- To prevent electrical circuits from overheating, always use power boards fitted with overload protection.
- Buy weatherproofing accessories for outdoor use. This will protect connections and keep moisture and debris away from plugs and sockets.
- Never run electrical leads through doors or windows; this can damage insulation and expose wires. Instead, use factory-made extension leads for outdoor use.
- For extra safety install a safety switch to minimise the risk of electric shock.
These Christmas light safety tips certainly apply to all electrical appliances and outdoor equipment, no matter the time of year. By taking these precautions, you’ll enjoy secure outdoor lights and decorations and a bright, safe and merry holiday season.
Choose Energy Efficient Lighting
If you’re saying goodbye to your old lights and buying all-new Christmas decorations for your home, choosing energy-efficient lighting is a win for both safety and your power bill.
Modern LED lights are a great choice—they use far less power than halogen or other high-powered lights. They also produce minimal heat and last longer. For an even greener option, consider solar-powered lights that charge during the day and shine at night – all without adding to your electricity bill.
Changing light bulbs to either of these options is a great way to enjoy decorative lighting while remaining kind to the environment. Don’t use multiple high-powered lamps as they can overload circuits and increase the risk of electrical problems.
Using LED or solar lights gives you a dazzling Christmas display without compromising on efficiency or safety.
Get a Licensed Electrical Contractor for Complex Setups
For large or complex outdoor Christmas light setups, like the earlier-mentioned Griswold display, hiring a licensed electrician is the way to go.
They are trained to handle complex setups, including outdoor electrical connections, and can ensure all electrical equipment meets strict safety standards. Licensed electricians can install safety switches and additional power points, modify lights and ensure your circuits can handle the load of your lights without overloading.
Not only is DIY electrical work potentially hazardous, especially when using non-compliant lights or exposed wires, but it’s also against the law in Australia. By hiring a professional you’ll have a bright Christmas without sacrificing safety or reliability.
Outdoor Christmas Light Safety Best Practices
For those who prefer their “how to safely power outdoor Christmas lights” tips in bullet-list format, here’s how to create a safe and sparkling outdoor Christmas light display:
- Use weatherproofing accessories to protect plugs and connections.
- Always use Australian-compliant lights for outdoor use.
- Secure light bulbs and lamp holders to prevent falls or damage.
- Unplug lights before handling them, i.e. when changing bulbs or repositioning.
- Don’t overload circuits with multiple high-powered lamps or too many decorations on one plug.
- Keep electrical equipment and connections away from water or damp areas.
Whether you’re decorating trees with fairy lights or lining the roof with icicle lights, following these best practices will give you a safe and stunning outdoor Christmas decoration display.
Keep Your Lights Sparkling and Safe
A beautiful outdoor Christmas light display can bring joy to your home and look great from the street. But it’s always essential that safety comes first.
By using Australian-compliant lights, weatherproofing accessories and checking for exposed wires or broken bulbs you’ll reduce the risks and have a stress-free Christmas. Consider LED or solar lights for a safer and more energy-efficient option. Use a licensed electrician to set up outdoor electrical connections correctly and make sure that everything meets electrical safety standards.
By following these simple outdoor lighting tips, you’ll illuminate your home and hearts without compromising on safety or cheer. So, do Clark Griswold proud. Let your decorations shine bright all season!
Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “How to Safely Power Outdoor Christmas Lights”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.
