It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. While the pros have been stringing lights around the neighborhood since mid-September, those of us who DIY are just gearing up now that we’ve tucked away the Halloween costumes and devoured two pounds of candy.
Whether this is your first time working with Christmas lights or you’re an unofficial pro yourself, it’s never a bad idea to brush up on your holiday light know-how. From risky safety practices to installation strategies that never pan out, these are the mistakes you just don’t want to make when it comes to stringing your holiday lights this year.
Mistake #1: Skipping the Pre-check
It’s always recommended to check each of your light strands before getting started, but many of us forget to grant the same courtesy to our outlets and extension cords. This task might take you all of 10 minutes to complete but will save you loads of frustration once you start stringing.
While holiday lights are often the first place issues arise after sitting in storage for a year, remember to check the equipment you plan to use for installation, too. That means step stools, ladders, drills, clips, and more. Make sure all your materials are in good working order. If anything needs replacing, you’ll likely only need one trip to the hardware store—instead of three! (We’ve all been there.)
Mistake #2: Ignoring Extension Cord Safety
Once you’re sure your extension cords, power strips, and the like are up for the holiday task at hand, be certain you’re using them appropriately. Any electronic equipment you use outdoors should be outdoor grade. It’s also crucial not to overload them.
Check the wattage your outlets can handle and make sure you don’t exceed it. As a rule of thumb, stick to a maximum of three strands of lights per extension cord. Let’s make sure this holiday season is a safe one.
Mistake #3: Forgetting the Timer
Christmas lights don’t last forever—especially if you opted for a more budget-friendly set. To maximize their lifespan, invest in a timer that will automatically switch your lights on and off at preset times each evening. This saves you from daily plugging and unplugging, while your lights benefit from some much-needed time off.
Mistake #4: Not Having a Strategy Ahead of Time
Now is not the time to wing it. Even if you’re just stringing lights around your Christmas tree, having a strategy—such as working from the inside out, planning for ornament placement, or ensuring all your white lights match—will keep the process manageable. This also helps ensure you won’t run short on supplies when company arrives.
When it comes to outdoor displays, a thoughtful plan is even more important. Make sure you can pull off your vision with the right tools, expertise, and time. That way, the process remains a labor of love, not a dreaded chore. After all, it’s all about getting into the Christmas spirit—no Scrooges allowed!
Mistake #5: Channeling Clark Griswold
Sometimes, less is more. While a bright and festive display is lovely, take care not to overdo it (or overload your circuits) in pursuit of that perfect holiday glow. Enjoy the process and make memories—not mayhem—this holiday season!
https://www.southernliving.com/christmas-light-mistakes-11852685