Christmas lights add a festive sparkle to the holiday season and are a beloved tradition. But when rain or moisture hits outdoor Christmas lights, it can cause the lights to short circuit and blow a fuse.
Understanding why this happens can help you prevent it in the future.
Electrocution Hazard
Christmas lights are often exposed to weather elements, such as rain, snow and moisture. When moisture touches exposed wiring on outdoor Christmas lights, it creates a hazardous situation that can lead to electrocution or shock. The sudden increase in current when moisture contacts electricity is what causes the fuse to blow.
Insufficient Wiring
If your Christmas lights were not properly installed with adequate wiring, then they may be more prone to blowing fuses when exposed to rain. In order for your Christmas light display to be safe and reliable, it needs proper grounding and insulation for all of its wires.
Faulty Wires
Sometimes faulty wiring can also be an issue with outdoor Christmas lights. If any of the wires are frayed or damaged, they may not be able to handle the extra current that is created when moisture contacts them. This could result in a blown fuse.
Protection from Moisture
The best way to protect your Christmas lights from blowing fuses during rainstorms is by keeping them covered or protected from moisture as much as possible. You can purchase waterproof covers for your outdoor Christmas lights that will help keep them dry during wet weather.
Conclusion:
Rain or moisture touching exposed wiring on outdoor Christmas lights can cause electrocution and short circuits that lead to blown fuses. Inadequate wiring installation, faulty wires, and lack of protection from moisture are all factors that contribute to this problem. Taking steps such as ensuring proper installation with adequate wiring, inspecting wires for damage regularly, and covering outdoor Christmas lights with waterproof covers can help prevent blown fuses due to wet weather conditions.
