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How to Prevent Christmas Lights From Tripping When it Rains Plug the Christmas lights into your Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), or outdoor outlet. Alternatively (instead of using electrical tape), use plastic wrap or a plastic bag instead to cover the receptacles.
Why do my Christmas lights keep going 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.
How do you protect outdoor Christmas lights from rain?
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 you leave outdoor Christmas lights on in the rain?
“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.
Should you cover outdoor Christmas light plugs?
Make sure all outdoor cords are not in excessively wet or damp locations to reduce risk and other hazards. Also, make sure that all your outdoor receptacles are covered with plastic bubble covers. This keeps the extension cord protected from the outside elements while plugged in.
How do you keep Christmas lights from shorting?
Instead, follow these tips to keep from overloading your circuits: Unplug electrical appliances that are not in use. Spread out heated styling tools. Only use extension cords for added length. Use LED Christmas lights. Use multiple outdoor circuits. Know your amp usage.
How do I waterproof my 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.
What happens to outdoor lights when it rains?
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.
Can I unplug Christmas lights in the rain?
The possibility of several inches of rain, could mean all those outdoor Christmas lights and decorations become electrical hazards. “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.
What do you do with Christmas lights when it rains?
Safety of Outdoor Christmas Lights in the Rain Rain can cause indoor flooding and light malfunctions. Buy the right lights. Cover the display or move lights inside. Don’t plug lights into outlets in heavy indoor-outdoor traffic areas where umbrellas, heavy coats, rain boots and animals will track in water.
Are outdoor outlets safe in rain?
Yes, you can safely use electrical appliances outside while it’s raining (assuming you are under cover, such as in an outdoor kitchen/dining area), as long as you have a waterproof cover in place.
How do I protect my plugs in the 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.
How do you protect outdoor outlets from rain?
How to Protect Outdoor Outlets From Rain Install the Right Kind of Outlets. Which outlet or receptacles do you need for outdoor use? Install GFCI Protection. You need GFCI protection for your home in any location that may come into contact with water. Install Bubble Covers for Outdoor Outlets.
Why do my outside lights keep tripping?
When a circuit breaker trips it often means that there is a short somewhere on the line. Wires are likely touching. When this happens the fixture is old and the insulation has worn off the wire. If the fixture is bad sometimes we can replace the socket assembly and that often fixes the problem.
Why does GFCI trip during rain?
Moisture in the Receptacle Box The accumulation of moisture is another major cause of GFCI tripping. Outdoor installations are the most vulnerable, and rain is the most common culprit. The presence of moisture can expose you to the risk of accidental electric shock.
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.
Do you need to seal outdoor lights?
Rain will often find its way into a wall if the exterior light fixture is not properly caulked. Therefore, proper caulking will help prevent water from entering into a wall; helping prevent damage and mold.
Do outdoor lights have to be waterproof?
Any LED placed outside should be outdoor rated. On the porch and under an eave or covering with some openings needs at least a damp location rating, while completely uncovered LEDs need a wet location rating. Lighting Tip: Rope light is waterproof until its cut!Mar 28, 2017.
