How To Use Extension Cords For Outside Christmas Lights

When purchasing outdoor Christmas extension cords, look for labels marked with UL or ETL. This means that the product has been tested by an independent laboratory recognized by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

When selecting extension cords for outside use, be sure the packaging states that it is designated for outdoor use. Outdoor extension cords are weatherproof and designed for use in harsh winter weather.

Purchase timers to automatically turn lights on and off. Lights should be turned off when people are not present and they should not be left on overnight.

Electrical outlets for exterior lighting should accommodate three-prong grounded plugs and should be on an electrical circuit protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

Extension cords used for outdoor lights, use three-prong plugs. Never use an indoor cord or a cord without the third prong. Plug the cord into a grounded outlet and select a cord with the shortest length that works for your project.

If extension cords must cross walkways, tape them down.

When connecting outdoor lighting, be careful not to create a maze of extension cords, plugs and wires that all come from the same electrical outlet. Electrical outlets and timers used for Christmas lights should be readily accessible for quick disconnection.

One of the greatest dangers when installing outdoor lighting involves the use of ladders. Use a high-quality, sturdy ladder that is the proper height. Be sure it is securely positioned. To avoid falls, move the ladder as necessary rather than leaning on it from side to side.

I have several 25 foot extension cords that have 3 outlets on the end that I run from the outside outlets of my house into my yard. It brings the electric out to where you need it. Do not use inside outlets and close the window on the cord...big no no. I also use 25 foot extension cords that have 3 two outlet that are spaced throughout the extension cord. I love my Christmas extension cords and everyone in my home knows they are off limits. I store all my cords in a bin in my garage marked "Christmas Extension Cords."

A great way to connect net lights in your garden is to use a multi outlet stake. You can easily connect your lights through the stake. The stake can plug directly into your outside outlet or through the multi-outlet extension cord. Most stakes come with waterproof covers which eliviate those plastic bags.

Most multi outlet stakes now come with timers or remotes that allow you to turn off your lights at night. Two in One....just makes your decorating that much easier.

By using these great extension cords, I'm able to have the brightest house on the block during Christmas. Every year I have to promise my dear husband that I won't buy any more Christmas lights or decorations! Somehow I always find one that I just have to have. Here's my list....6-6 foot Christmas Trees-I have spirals and twigs, just love the twigs, 2-4 foot Christmas Trees, 36 mini Christmas Trees, 4 Deer, 4 Pandas, 18 lighted Candy Canes, 16 lighted stake globes, 18 Presents and I know I'm leaving something out...And that's not including all the lights I put on the trees, bushes, fence and deck. My husband does the icicle lights on the house and has to leave before he has a melt down. Did I mention my electric bill???? The new LED lights are great...my mission is to replace all my lights with LED

..but then again I promised.

So What's In Your Yard?