💡 Electrician Tips for Weather-Proof Christmas Lights

1. Use Outdoor-Rated Lights and Extension Cords

Ensure everything is UL-listed for outdoor use including light strings, extension cords, and timers or smart plugs. Indoor-rated equipment can fail in wet or freezing weather.

2. Keep Connections Off the Ground

Moisture causes most GFCI trips and light failures. I recommend using stake-up cord holders, elevating connections on bricks, clips, or siding hooks. Never allow plugs to sit in snow, puddles, or wet grass.

3. Use a GFCI-Protected Outlet (Required by Code)

All outdoor holiday lighting should be plugged into a GFCI outlet. If it keeps tripping, usually moisture is the cause, not a faulty outlet. Do not tape the reset button or bypass safety features.

4. Seal Connections Properly

Avoid using electrical tape which fails in cold. Instead, use weatherproof cord covers or “in-use” outdoor outlet covers.

5. Avoid Overloading Circuits

Cold weather accelerates wear on extension cords and connections. Practice these basics: Use LED lights to save power; one 15-amp circuit supports roughly 1,400 watts; do not share outlets between lights, holiday inflatables, and space heaters.

6. Inspect Light Strings Before Hanging

Check for cracked insulation, corroded plugs, and exposed copper. Cold weather makes old insulation brittle, so replacing worn strings prevents shorts.

7. Use Outdoor Timers or Smart Plugs

Timers help reduce overheating and cycling from freezing and thawing. Use weather-housed outdoor smart plugs.

8. Keep Inflatable Decorations Away From Snow Drifts

Wet fan motors can short out, and packed snow can block air intakes. Place inflatables on flat, elevated surfaces.

9. Don’t Run Cords Through Windows or Doors

Cold conditions cause rubber gaskets to shrink and wires to pinch, creating shorts and insulation damage. Instead, use outdoor outlets or have Mendonca Electric install one with an in-use cover.

10. Use Drip Loops

Every hanging cord should have a U-shaped bend before entering a connection or plug. This design helps water drip off rather than flow into the connection.

11. Take Down Lights Promptly After the Season

Repeated freeze-thaw cycles damage light strings. It’s best to remove them within 2–3 weeks after the holiday.