How do you tell if string lights are indoor or outdoor?

Indoor lights This will be indicated on the packaging or on the light itself (usually on a tag near the plug). It's not safe to use indoor lights outdoors as they don't have the additional weatherproof ratings.

How do I know if my lights are indoor or outdoor?

Outdoor holiday lights will have either a red tag or a silver tag with red text. The UL changed tag colors a few years ago, but as long as holiday lights have a UL tag, regardless of when that tag was added, and the lights are still in good condition with no fraying or other damage, you can trust that they are safe.

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor string lights?

Durability and Construction Differences

They are also designed to withstand UV rays, extreme temperatures, dirt, wind, and other outdoor conditions. Indoor string lights do not require this protective construction, so they come in more delicate designs with fabric cords and fine bulb sockets.

What happens if you use indoor string lights outdoors?

If you decorate your porch with lights designed for indoor use only, they could break down in harsh weather conditions. Damaged lights pose a risk for fire or injury through electrical shock. Similarly, outdoor lights used indoors may become a fire hazard because they are often hotter than standard tree lights.

How do you tell if lights can be used outside?

The best way to tell if a light fixture or bulb is safe to use outdoors is by checking its UL rating. So proceed with caution if you plan to use indoor lighting fixtures outdoors, as most indoor fixtures are for indoor use only.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Holiday Lights - Ace Hardware

Can indoor LED lights be used outdoors?

Picking An LED Bulb To Use Outdoors

The UL rating will indicate in what conditions the bulb can be used. Bulbs rated for indoor use should not be used outdoors. Bulbs rated for outdoor use can be used outdoor or indoors. Since they are built to withstand the elements, they work just as effectively outside as inside.

What lights can be used outside?

Types of Light Bulbs for Outdoor Lighting

Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are a popular option, and while they cost more than other bulbs, they last considerably longer. Other common options are compact fluorescent (CFL) or halogen bulbs.

Are outdoor string lights OK in the rain?

So, can outdoor lights get wet? Outdoor lights can get wet as long as their IP rating is waterproof. To ensure your specific model of string lights can get wet, you need to look at the IP rating of your outdoor lights to check how well protected they are against moisture.

Can outdoor string lights get wet?

While they can be exposed to water to some degree, they are not fully waterproof. Electric shock can occur, so use caution. Not all LED lights are damp-rated. LED bulbs that have neither of these ratings are not totally enclosed, and therefore, are not suitable for use around wet conditions or water.

Why can't you use indoor Christmas lights outside?

Outdoor Christmas lights can be used indoors, but it's vitally important that you don't use indoor lights outside. Outdoor Christmas lights are built to withstand wet and cold conditions. Indoor lights are not, so can – and will – easily get damaged during the colder, wetter winter months.

Can you use string lights indoors?

Fairy lights are great for bringing subtle ambiance and an element of whimsy to any space. They're also easy to install, making them a great afternoon project you can take on with tools you probably already own.

Is there a difference between indoor and outdoor LED lights?

There is a significant difference between indoor and outdoor LED's. Although they both work the same way, the harsh weather conditions that outdoor lights experience can drastically shorten the life of LED's that are designed to work indoors.

What are outdoor string lights called?

Bistro string lighting goes by many names such as cafe lights, party string lights, market lights, string lighting and globe string lights are all different names for basically the same outdoor lighting effect. Bistro string lighting has become very popular in the most recent years.

What color are outdoor lights?

Outdoor lighting color temperature is typically divided into three categories: warm white, warm natural white, and cool daylight white. Each one evokes a different ambiance. Warm white is intended to be cozy and inviting. Warm, natural white is meant to be welcoming and, well, natural.

What color are indoor lights?

Just like natural sunlight appears in many shades throughout one day, "artificial" lighting or light bulbs also come in many shades of white. These are a light's color temperatures, represented as degrees Kelvin (˚K). In terms of light bulbs, most fall anywhere between 2700K and 6500K.

What happens if you put an indoor Christmas tree outside?

Since indoor trees are not really made to deal with rain and have metal parts, it wouldn't be a good idea.

Is it OK to leave string lights on all night?

Leaving Christmas lights on for an extended period can pose significant risks. One of the most significant risks is a fire hazard. If the lights are old, worn, or defective, they could overheat and ignite. Another risk is electrical shock.

Is it OK to leave LED string lights on all night?

The answer is yes. Generally speaking, the best thing to do is leave your lights on all night. Most LED light strips are not super bright enough to replace high-pressure sodium bulbs. Consider that new LEDs use more energy than older ones.

Why are my outdoor string lights not working after rain?

Outdoor Christmas lights are not waterproof. They have multiple sockets and connections which water can penetrate causing an electrical surge, which then trips GFCI outlets. This problem is easily fixed by resetting the GFCI outlets once the Christmas lights, extension cords and connections have had a chance to dry.

Can you leave outdoor string lights out in winter?

Freezing temperatures don't affect the efficiency of your outdoor light. Your bulbs will still light up when they reach their total capacity and can stay lit for hours without any problems whatsoever. However, some other factors affect your lights' performance – snow and wind being two of them.

How long do outdoor string lights last?

The lifespan of your outdoor lights will depend on how often you use them and whether they're properly maintained. In general, high-end LED string lights will last for around six to seven seasons—or two to three years if you use them year-round.

How do you protect string lights from rain?

Place a Rain Block Weatherproof Gasket on the male connector of the light or decoration and firmly press the two together. The gasket will compress slightly and lock out water.

What makes a light outdoor rated?

IP44 And Above

IP ratings of between 44 and 65 may be used for both indoor and general outdoor use. Anything lower than IP44 should only be used indoors, however. IP44 outdoor lights can withstand rain and are safe to use outdoors, however should not be exposed to pressurised water such as a jet wash.

How do you weatherproof outdoor lights?

For an added layer of protection, consider applying a protective coating to your outdoor lights. Products like clear lacquer or silicone-based sprays can provide a barrier against moisture and reduce the risk of rust and corrosion.

What type of light is best for outdoors?

Of all the exterior light options, flood lights cast the widest beam. This makes them the best choice for lighting dark outdoor spaces like an alley, driveway or workshop entry. Flood lights are also good for guests and family as they navigate your driveway and walkways.