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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. 

There are tons of different types of landscape lighting available, including the choice between solar and wired, incandescent and LED, and a variety of colors. Specific types of lighting include:

• Pathway lights: $50–$150 per fixture

• String lights: $50–$150

• Low-voltage lights: $90–$150 per fixture

• Porch lights: $65–$250 per fixture

• Floodlights: $75–$250 per fixture

• Downlights: $100–$400 per fixture

• Uplights: $100–$400 per fixture

• Security lights: $ 350–$500 per fixture

• Lamp posts: $400–$1,100 per lamp post

Between seasons, inspect cords for damage, replace burnt-out bulbs, and clean lighting fixtures to prevent dirt buildup. Proper storage in cool, dry conditions will extend the lights' lifespan and minimize repairs or replacements when redeployed.

If you need to visually inspect your Christmas lights to determine which are good and which need replacement, there are a few things to look for. First, look for discoloration, such as a dark spot or two on the inside of the glass. The spot is an indication of a burnt filament. Also, look for missing filaments, cracked bulb glass, and broken sockets.