When it comes to decorating your home for the holidays, outdoor Christmas lights are a must. Whether you have a simple single string of lights or an elaborate display, you will need an extension cord to power your lights. But not all extension cords are the same, so it’s important to choose one that is designed for outdoor use.
When shopping for an extension cord for your Christmas lights, there are a few key things to look out for:
- Gauge: The gauge of the cord is important because it determines how much power can be safely run through it. Look for a cord that has at least 12-gauge wire – 14-gauge wire is better – as this will prevent the risk of overheating and fire.
- Length: Make sure you buy a cord that is long enough to reach from the outlet where you plan to plug in your lights, to the farthest point of your display.
Keep in mind that buying a longer cord than you need is always better than one that is too short.
- Outdoor Rating: Not all extension cords are made for outdoor use. Look for cords with an “outdoor” rating, which indicates they have been tested and approved specifically for outdoor use.
Safety Tips:
- [1] :Never plug more than three sets of holiday lights into one extension cord.
- [2] :Never use indoor extension cords outdoors.
