Get matched with top holiday decorators in Fords, NJ

Yes, you must use an extension cord specifically rated for outdoor use to power outdoor lights, such as Christmas lights. Extension cords intended for indoor use lack the protective properties to withstand exposure to outdoor elements. To safely hang and power lights outside your house or in your yard, always connect them to an outdoor power source using an outdoor-rated extension cord.

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. 

There are many types of Christmas lights to choose from when working with a light installer. The main types available for outdoor lighting are dome, LED, incandescent, and C9, and your lighting professional’s choice will depend on the location and overall design. 

C9 lighting is typically the most expensive option, ranging from $15 to $70 per 25-foot strand. These usually have fewer bulbs per strand, so you might need more than expected to cover a large area. Dome lighting is usually the most cost-effective option, ranging from $6 to $15 per 25-foot strand. These bulbs are smaller and rounder than other options, creating a softer look.

You can attach Christmas lights to your palm tree by securely wrapping the strings around the tree. If you notice the strands slipping, you can also use a staple gun to secure them to the trunk.