Table of Contents
“If your lights go out this time of year, don’t go out in the rain and try to fix them,” said Elias. “Wait until it dries out. You can get an electrical shock from water transfer. So you don’t want anything to be wet, you don’t want to be wet.
Why do my outside Christmas lights go out when it rains?
Unfortunately, when it comes to Christmas lights and decorations and GFCIs, generally all it takes to trip a circuit is for a little moisture to get into the outlet, cord, or lights. If this happens and the power is on, the circuit will trip, causing the lights and décor to go out.
Why are my Christmas lights not working when it rains?
It could be that moisture (wet snow, ice, or rain) has caused the issue. It would likely be at a connection point at the source, or on one of the light strings. Most of the new light sets out now have built in fuses to protect overloading of the light string itself.
Does rain affect Christmas lights?
“Make sure where everything plugs in is dry and not exposed to the elements because the electricity still goes through the equipment and the light portion, what goes outside is what’s important.” He said Christmas lights are meant to be used outside, they will be fine in rainy conditions.
Is it okay if outdoor Christmas lights get wet?
One of the most common questions from our customers is whether Christmas lights are water resistant. Most modern lights with a rating above IP44 are waterproof. Christmas lights with this rating are safe to be used outdoors and are protected from rain and water.
How do you weather proof Christmas lights?
As for how to protect outdoor Christmas lights from rain – put them on stakes or other elevated positions above ground as well. You can hang them on trees, bushes, on your fence, or on your yard furniture but make sure they are not just lying on the ground.
Can outdoor lights get wet?
So, can outdoor lights get wet? Outdoor lights can get wet. To ensure your specific model of string lights can get wet, you need to look at the IP rating of your outdoor lights to check how well protected they are against moisture. You also need to ensure that the extension cables are appropriate for exterior use.
What happens if lights get wet?
Wet-rated LED lights may be within dripping or flowing water. Electricity flows through the bulb, and because water is a conductor, it’s possible for electrocution to occur. It’s a safe assumption that if water is introduced to a live electric current, it may very well travel away from the intended direction.
What happens when a light bulb gets wet?
If the bulb is lit when you pour water on it, it will undergo thermal shock. Some parts cool down and shrink, while other parts are hot. This causes very large thermal stresses, which can break the bulb.
Can you leave string lights out in rain?
Most outdoor lights are safe to leave in the rain because they are built to withstand different outdoor weather conditions. On the other hand, there are instances wherein heavy downpour causes the individual fuse of the string light to blow up. This can occur when water gets into the prongs on the plug.
What happens if you put indoor Christmas lights outdoor?
Indoor-only lights aren’t insulated like outdoor lights and won’t work with moisture from the outdoors. In fact, if indoor lights are exposed to water, snow or any other outdoor element, they could possibly become hazardous. Never use “indoor only” lights outdoors.
What to do with outdoor lights when it rains?
One of the best options for protecting outdoor lights from rain is to use lights that won’t be damaged by rain. Since they don’t run on electricity and have no wiring, there’s no danger of a wire shorting out and causing a fire. Moreover, solar lights are sealed units and are thus virtually waterproof.
Can outdoor extension cords get rained on?
An extension cord can survive the rain if it is rated for outdoor use and if it is in good condition. However, the plug should be kept out of the rain.
How do I protect my outdoor extension cord from rain?
Use Cling Wrap Industrial strength pallet wrap is good way to weatherize your connections when using extension cords outside. Wrap the connection portion of the cords tightly, using as much of the plastic wrap as needed to keep out the water and prevent electric shock.
How do you waterproof an outdoor light fixture?
One of the easiest ways to waterproof outdoor lights is to apply an extra silicon seal (caulk) during installation. There are other methods such as choosing high IP-rated fixtures or using light shields. In addition to a watertight lamp, you also want the outlet to be secure.
How do I power Christmas lights outside?
Let’s explore the options. Use Existing External Outlets. Run an Extension Cord from Inside the Home. Use Solar Lights or Panels. Using Batteries to Power Outdoor Lights. 12 Volt Batteries Can be Used. Safety Precautions when Using Electricity and String Lights. The Don’ts of Extension Cords. Pay Attention to Wattage.
How do you protect electrical plugs from rain?
One of the simplest ways to protect outdoor plugs from wetness is by using plastic covers.How to Keep Plugs Dry Outside-( 7 common methods) Using an Electrical Tape. Using a Plastic Bag. Install Covers under a Roof. Use a Weatherproof Cover. Use Dielectric Greases. Use Waterproof Sockets and Plugs. Make Your Own Cover.
