How To Use Extension Cords For Outside Christmas Lights
End The Extension Cord Nightmare For Your Outside Christmas Lights and Decorating. Yep, end that nightmare. All you need are the right extension cords to do your Outdoor Christmas Lighting and you will be looking forward to decorating for Christmas again next year.
I remember decorating with my mom and using these little clip on outlets for the extension cords and wrapping every connection in plastic wraps and little baggies…wow we’ve come a long way!
A Note About Safety and Extension Cords
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). 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).
If extension cords must cross walkways, tape them down securely.
When connecting outdoor lighting, be careful not to have all the extension cords, plugs and wires that come from the same electrical outlet.
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 instead of leaning 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.
The new LED lights are great…my mission is to replace all my lights with LED..but then again I promised.
Ann Cohen is a mom, wife, friend and caterer who love babies, “green”, decorating and holiday’s. Being able to entertain and decorate on a budget is important today and loves finding that “great deal.” To get some more tips on how to’s, green and saving money check out How To Use Extension Cords For Outside Christmas Lights and browse her selection of how to’s….
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Outdoor Christmas Decor – How to dazzle your neighbors and friends with your best ever Christmas display
Creating an Outstanding Outdoor Christmas Display
I know that creating a dazzling outdoor Christmas decor is important to you. There are thousands of unique Christmas decor items made to be used outdoors from the finest online vendors. You will appreciate the great service and exceptional deals you will find with these merchants. They want to help you make a real statement in your neighborhood and actually WOW everyone who sees your property and your Christmas display masterpiece.
No matter what you are decorating, these quality vendors have you covered. You can find great Christmas decorations and Holiday displays made especially for outdoor use so you can create any theme and for any application. Your Christmas light displays and other Christmas decorations will look great in front of your home or business, or as a part of a public display at a park or shopping center.
The Advantage of Using LED Outdoor Christmas Lights
Many of the new outdoor Christmas decor products are lighted with energy efficient, long-lasting LED lights. These lights will outlast dozens of the traditional C7 or C9 Christmas light bulbs. LED lights will also burn cooler reducing the fire hazard associated with the traditional C7 and C9 bulbs. Also the energy savings when you use LED lighting with your outdoor Holiday displays can be up to 98% over using traditional light bulbs. You can dazzle your neighbors and friends and still be green at the same time.
Safety is an important consideration when you are dealing with lighted Christmas decorations. You want to always check to be sure that your lighted items, controllers, timers, extension cords, and other related item used in your Christmas displays are all UL Listed. Many of the cheap imported electrical products are not UL Listed and should be avoided.
Great Christmas Yard Art and Christmas Inflatables for Your Display
You may want to include brilliant life size or smaller yard art figures in your outdoor Holiday display creations. These items may be lighted or may require independent illumination. They can range from inflatable nylon or vinyl figures to lighted and animated high-end yard art items.
It Pays to Buy Quality
One of the things that is important when purchasing items for your outdoor Christmas display is to buy quality products. When you buy quality products from reputable vendors you will have Holiday decor items that will last you for many years. That way you can continue to add to your collection so your display will become better and better will each passing Holiday season.
One of the great features of quality outdoor Christmas decorations is that they are easy to install. Quality products will come with all of the parts and accessories that you need for a quick and easy setup. Also they will be easy to take down and store for the next holiday season.
Summary for Overview on Outdoor Christmas Decor
I am confident that you are going to create one of the best if not the best Christmas yard display in your neighborhood. I hope that the information in this article has been helpful. You will find a lot more information at my website and at the links to these great vendors. If you are looking for a huge selection of quality outdoor christmas decor products and a good deal on your selections, be sure to visit my website: http://www.outdoorchristmasdecorsite.com
by Paul E. Dulin, Author and Business Owner
Business Owner and Internet Business Coach. I have a background in sales, advertising and marketing. It has been my life’s goal to help people find and get what they are looking for. What I am doing now gives me great satisfaction because it fulfills my goal.
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