Christmas lights are a staple of the holiday season. Whether you are lighting up your tree or illuminating your home’s exterior, festive decorations make the season merrier. If you plan to hang lights outside, an extension cord is a must-have item. Knowing what extension cord to buy can make your holiday decorating go more smoothly.
When selecting an outdoor extension cord for Christmas lights, the most important factor to consider is gauge.
Gauge refers to the thickness of the copper wiring inside the cord and is represented by a number (the lower number, the thicker the wire). An outdoor extension cord should be at least 16 gauge. Thicker cords such as 14 or 12 gauge can also be used, but they are not necessary unless you are running several strands of lights.
Safety First
For optimal safety, it is important to use an outdoor-rated extension cord for your Christmas lights. These cords are designed for use in damp and wet conditions and feature thicker insulation than indoor cords.
Outdoor cords also often have an additional grounding prong. Additionally, check that your extension cord is rated for the wattage of your Christmas lights; if not, it could overheat and cause injury or damage.
Additional Considerations
Look for a cord with a 3-prong plug for added safety; it should have one round prong (ground) and two flat prongs (hot). Additionally, look for cords with UL approval; this indicates that they meet industry standards for quality and safety.
Length Matters
Choose an appropriately sized extension cord based on your needs. Longer cords with more outlets can help reduce clutter by providing multiple plug-ins without needing multiple cables. However, keep in mind that longer cords may not be able to handle as much wattage as shorter ones.
Conclusion: What Extension Cord Do I Need For Outdoor Christmas Lights?When selecting an outdoor extension cord for Christmas lights, look for one that is rated for outdoor use and is at least 16 gauge thick with UL approval. Additionally, consider length when choosing a cable and check that it is rated for the wattage of your lights in order to ensure optimal safety during installation.
