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If only half of your string of Christmas lights is out, it likely means that you have a broken or loose bulb somewhere along the strand. That’s why we suggest inspecting and testing each bulb to ensure it’s still tight and functioning properly. Luckily, this problem is quickly solved with a DIY fix, such as replacing the bad bulb or repairing a damaged shunt.

Local building codes typically require conduit around exterior wiring. Conduit protects the wire from moisture, extreme temperatures, sun exposure, and harsh weather conditions to prolong its lifespan. When a wire is worn out, it can be dangerous as the risk of electric shock or fire increases.

You can take a few steps to prolong the life of your holiday lights. Make sure to replace burnt-out bulbs as quickly as possible to avoid overloading the rest of the circuit and knocking out more lights. Before packing them up each year, plug each strand into the wall to confirm everything is still working. Wrap the lights carefully back into their original packaging or something similar—winding a strand tightly together or leaving it to hang loose in a storage bin can lead to frayed or damaged wiring. 

The requirements for outdoor lighting will vary depending on the type of light, where it’s located on the exterior of your home, and your local electrical code. Lights that come into contact with water (i.e. pool lights) will need to be on a GFCI, for instance. That being said, it’s safest to have any outdoor light on GFCI because of the risk of moisture. A pro can give you more specific information for your unique circumstances.