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Modern outdoor light fixtures are waterproof and weather resistant, and, provided they’re installed correctly and by a professional, the fixture and wiring can last for 20 to 30 years or more. The lifespan will depend largely on the quality of the fixture. The lifespan of the bulb will depend on the type of light you install:

• CFL bulb (for sustained use): 15,000 hours

• Halogen bulb (mostly for security): 2,000 hours

• HID bulbs (for security): 12,000 hours

• Incandescent bulb: 1,000 hours

• LED bulb: 50,000 hours

Testing tools, such as Christmas light testers, non-contact proximity electrical testers, and multimeters, all simplify the process of testing Christmas lights. However, without one or more of those tools, testing Christmas lights the old-fashioned way only works sometimes. Without testing tools, the simplest testing method is visual inspection, which may or may not yield positive results.

If half of a string of Christmas lights is out, it is likely because of a single burned-out, loose, or broken bulb within that section. Long strands of lights often contain more than one circuit, so when one bulb fails, it can cause the entire circuit (or half the strand) to go dark. To fix this, inspect the unlit section and test each bulb to ensure it is tight and functioning properly. Replacing the faulty bulb or repairing a damaged shunt will typically solve the problem.

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.