Hanging holiday lights is one of the most fun and festive ways to celebrate the season, but it can also be tricky and time-consuming. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes during the process that can lead to safety hazards, damaged lights, and less-than-stellar displays. To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are the top 10 mistakes people make when hanging their holiday lights and how to avoid them.
1. Using the Wrong Type of Lights
Not all holiday lights are created equal. Some are designed for indoor use only, while others are built to withstand the elements outside. One of the biggest mistakes people make is using indoor lights outdoors, which can lead to safety hazards like electrical shorts or blown fuses. Always check the label and use lights specifically rated for outdoor use if you’re hanging them outside.
2. Overloading Electrical Circuits
It’s easy to get carried away with your holiday lighting display, but plugging too many light strands into a single outlet or extension cord can overload the circuit and cause power outages or electrical fires. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how many strands can be safely connected. If you’re unsure, use a surge protector or split the lights across multiple outlets.
3. Using the Wrong Fasteners
Nails, staples, and screws might seem like a quick solution to securing your lights, but they can easily damage your home’s exterior and even the wiring of the lights themselves. Instead, use light clips or adhesive hooks designed specifically for holiday lights. These products are safer, easier to use, and won’t damage your home.
4. Ignoring Safety Precautions
Many people overlook basic safety precautions when installing holiday lights, such as using a sturdy ladder, working with a partner, or wearing the proper gear. Climbing ladders to reach high places can be dangerous, especially in icy or wet conditions. Always make sure your ladder is secure and stable, and never overreach while hanging lights. If possible, have someone spot you to ensure added safety.
5. Failing to Measure Beforehand
One common mistake is not measuring the areas where the lights will be hung before starting the installation. This often results in strands that are too short or too long for the desired area. Avoid this by measuring your roofline, trees, and other areas where you plan to hang lights, then purchasing the correct length of light strands. Proper measurements help you achieve a clean, professional look.
6. Neglecting to Check Lights Before Hanging
There’s nothing more frustrating than hanging a full strand of lights only to discover they’re not working. Many people make the mistake of skipping the step of checking their lights before hanging them. Always plug in your lights and check for any broken bulbs or faulty wires before installing them. Replacing broken bulbs or damaged sections beforehand saves you time and effort.
7. Not Using Timers
Manually turning your holiday lights on and off every day can become a hassle, and it’s easy to forget. This not only wastes energy but also reduces the lifespan of your lights. Using a timer ensures that your lights turn on and off automatically at set times, helping to save electricity and extend the life of your display.
8. Inadequate Planning of Power Sources
Not planning out where your power sources are in relation to your lighting display can cause a headache when you realize you’re too far from an outlet. Before you start hanging lights, make a plan that includes where the lights will be plugged in and whether you need any extension cords. Always use outdoor-rated extension cords, and try to minimize the distance between the power source and your lights to avoid trip hazards.
9. Forgetting to Weatherproof Connections
Outdoor holiday lights are exposed to rain, snow, and other harsh weather conditions, which can damage the electrical connections if they’re not protected. A common mistake is not using weatherproof coverings for the plugs and connectors, which can lead to electrical shorts. Be sure to use weatherproof extension cords and protect connections with plastic covers or electrical tape to keep moisture out.
10. Not Hiring Professionals for Complex Displays
It’s easy to get overambitious with your holiday lighting vision, but if your display requires intricate designs, tall trees, or large rooflines, it might be more than you can handle safely or effectively. Many homeowners attempt complex installations on their own, only to find it takes more time and effort than they expected. If you’re aiming for a professional-level display or have safety concerns, hiring a professional holiday light installer can save you time, stress, and potential injuries.
Hanging holiday lights is a wonderful way to celebrate the season, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to frustration, safety hazards, or a less-than-perfect display. By planning ahead, using the right materials, and following safety protocols, you can create a festive and safe holiday display that will light up your home and neighborhood. If the project seems too daunting, don’t hesitate to call in professional help to make your holiday lighting dreams come true!
