Get matched with top holiday decorators in Alton, MO

How many string lights can be on one outlet depends on a number of varying factors, including the total wattage of your circuit, the type of lights, the energy needs of the lights, and cord specifications. It’s better to play it safe here to protect your circuit, so figure out the max wattage of your circuit, compare that to the lights, and move on from there. Generally speaking, LED string lights require less energy than incandescent bulbs, translating to a higher number of lights per circuit. 

Christmas lights typically do not need to be grounded like electrical circuits in your home do. However, it's crucial to use outdoor outlets equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for added safety. GFCIs can help protect against electrical shocks and are recommended for outdoor electrical connections when using Christmas lights.

The cost to have your house decorated for Christmas depends on the extent of your holiday vision. Interior decorators charge between $50 and $150 per hour on average, so if your decorations are minimal, you could pay as little as $200 for a couple of hours of decorating. Interior decorators might also bill $5 to $12 per square foot, or a flat rate of $500 to $1,300 per room. You can also pay to have your Christmas tree professionally decorated for an average of $200 to $600. Contact a local interior decorator for a specific quote.

It’s unnecessary to tip holiday decorators, and most professionals won’t expect it, but it’s a nice gesture to show your appreciation for their work. If the expert goes above and beyond to keep your delicate decorations safe, or they’re hanging your exterior lights and putting out lawn decorations in freezing temperatures or inclement weather, a tip between 10% and 20% of your total will be appreciated. Large jobs that include interior and exterior work are also good opportunities to tip, especially if your expert is performing a rush job close to the holidays.