How to Test Outdoor Christmas Lights

Test your Christmas lights before you hang them and save yourself a lot of trouble later in the season.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Christmas Tree Lights
• Light Bulb Testers
• Extension Cords

1. Inspect every string for damage to the insulation on the wire or smashed light sockets.

2. Plug each string into an electrical socket individually.

3. Replace any bulbs that don't light up.

4. Make sure all of the bulbs are firmly fastened in their sockets.

5. Check to see if the string has a fuse (it will be at the end nearest the plug); try replacing the fuse if the entire string is out.

6. Buy a bulb tester and use it to check any lights you suspect are burned out.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your lights and extension cords are rated by Underwriter's Laboratories and are designed for outdoor use.

• Replace burned-out bulbs immediately. They can cause the other bulbs to overheat and shorten the lives of all the bulbs on the string.

• If you find a damaged string, throw it away. The few dollars you might save by keeping it are not worth the risk of a house fire.

Resources

• Santa Letter
• Christmas Recipes