How to Set Up Patio Umbrella Lights
Patio umbrella lights have both functional and decorative uses. First, they illuminate the area beneath the umbrella so that you can enjoy the outdoors even as it gets dark. Additionally, they add soft ambiance to your setting. There are many different styles of patio umbrella lights, but most fall into two categories: string lights and lamps. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Attach Patio Umbrella Lamps Securely
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1
Take the umbrella out of its stand.
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2
Slide the clamp for the lamp up the umbrella pole until it gets to your preferred height.
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3
Tighten the clamp around the pole so the lamp stays in place. You may have to use a screwdriver to tighten the clamp, but others will have a twist key or some other tightening mechanism installed.
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4
Insert the lamp into the clamp and thread wires if necessary. Most patio umbrella lamps are independent of their clamps.
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5
Remove the lamp from the clamp when you collapse the umbrella. Typically, the clamp can stay in place without impeding the umbrella's closing mechanism. You may have to lower the clamp if it is too high.
Attach String Patio Umbrella Lights
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6
Set up the umbrella in its stand.
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7
Untangle the LED light strings from the packaging.
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8
Secure the light strings to each of the ribs that butt against the umbrella fabric. Most umbrellas have eight ribs, and most string lighting kits are designed for eight ribs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for attachment.
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9
Attach the light string to the circumference of the umbrella.
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10
Secure the battery pack to the umbrella pole. Attach wires to the battery pack.
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11
Use an extension cord from indoors or an outdoor electric outlet if the lights run off an outlet current. Wind the power cord down the pole and plug it in, being sure it won't cause people to trip.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for string lights that aren't affected by one light going out. You don't want to have to buy and install a whole new set of lights if one bulb burns out.
Get umbrella lamps that are battery operated if you don't have an outlet nearby. Battery-operated string lights will have a battery pack that attaches to the middle of the umbrella pole.
Use hanging candle or oil lamps for quick and easy patio umbrella lighting. These lamps are easy to set up because they just hang from the ribs of the umbrella and don't require any wiring.
Exercise caution when using open flame lights, as these are a fire hazard. Hold your hand between the flame and the umbrella to be sure they aren't too close. Don't let children play around umbrellas with hanging candle or oil lamps.
