Get matched with top lighting pros in Riverwoods, IL

No, you should not leave LED Christmas lights up all year. While the LED lights themselves are very durable, their wiring and casings can be as vulnerable as any Christmas lights. They’re subject to drying out, experiencing cold or sun damage that causes them to crack, and even damage caused by gnawing pests. (The same is true of incandescents.) If you want your lights to last the years that they’re rated for, bring them inside after Christmas is over. 

While most general electricians can repair lamps and light fixtures, it is often better to hire a lamp repair specialist. Many electricians prefer larger jobs, such as fixing electrical systems or relocating fixtures, and may not offer lamp repair services due to the small scale of the work. Additionally, some lamps, particularly antique models, require dedicated expertise that a general electrician might not have. A lamp repair specialist will be familiar with various types of fixtures and can provide a more dedicated service. If you have already hired an electrician for a larger project, you can ask them to look at your lamp, but for a standalone repair, a specialist is typically the best option.

The cost to repair outdoor lighting typically ranges from $100 to $400. The final price depends on the severity of the damage, the specific issue, the type of lighting system, and the parts needed. Some repairs are priced per fixture, averaging $100 to $300, and there may be additional fees if the lighting is difficult to access.

One possibility is that they aren’t getting enough sunlight during the day, which could be due to a lack of sunshine in your area or trees blocking the solar panel. Alternatively, if the solar panel is dirty or the batteries are dying, your solar lights might not operate at full brightness.