Can Outdoor String Lights Get Wet?
Read on to find out what IP rating is required for outdoor string lighting and how you can keep your connections secure.
What is an IP rating?
The IP rating can be identified by the letters “IP”, followed by two numbers.
The first number in the rating indicates how dustproof and waterproof your lights are. The higher the number, the greater the protection you have. Both numbers are important for outdoor lighting. Therefore, you will need to consider both when selecting your outdoor string lighting.
The IP65-rated LED lights offer complete protection from water jets, foreign objects, and other hazards. Make sure that the outdoor fixtures you purchase are IP65-rated.
How to protect your outdoor string lights
Keep your outdoor string lights safe and secure with these tips.
- Use only outdoor-rated extension cords.
Choose the extension cord that best suits your needs. Outdoor extension cables have rubber, vinyl, or plastic covers to resist harsher conditions.
Check the rating code on your cord to confirm that it is suitable for outdoor use. The code is made of letters that describe the type and location of the extension cord. The letter “W” indicates that it can be used outside.
- Use outdoor-rated bulbs.
Most C7 and C9 bulbs are safe to use in outdoor applications. You can also use incandescent lights outdoors, as long as you don’t expose them to any water, such as rain.
For moist environments, use bulbs with a damp rating. These lights must not be submerged in water. Wet-rated bulbs can withstand exposure to direct water.
- Avoid using worn-out strings.
Test old string lights to find blown fuses, broken sockets, and bad bulbs. Repair lights as needed. Avoid using a strand that has worn or weak wires, as these lights could pose a fire risk.
- Protect connected plugs from water.
When installing patio lights, it may be necessary to connect many string lights together. Wrap the plugs in electrical tape to prevent them from coming apart. However, note that tape doesn’t offer enough protection against water. Use cord guards to protect the connected plugs against water. Place the connections on blocks or bricks to keep them off the floor and away from puddles.
- Use only insulated metal hooks or staples to hang string lights.
Use insulated metal staples or hooks to hang outdoor string lights. Metal hooks without a vinyl protective coating can become hot in warm weather and melt the jackets, exposing the wires. Staples may damage jackets or cause wires to be crushed. Eye screws, zip ties, or cup hooks can be used to install string lights as well.
- Use GFCI outlets to protect against electrical circulation failure.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets (GFCIs) cut power if they detect a problem in the electrical circuit. Check if the outdoor outlets are dedicated or shared before plugging your string lights into your power source. Spread the lights as far apart as possible between circuits to reduce the load.
- Stay below the maximum wattage.
Do not exceed the maximum number of connections or wattage that the string light is capable of handling. The maximum wattage of a string light is the amount of power it can handle, and the maximum length is equal to the total power the string light can handle. Use 80% of your maximum wattage when calculating the maximum run.
- Consider using remote control for ease of use.
Most outdoor light timers come with a variety of modes and convenient remote control. Remember that the solar panel will only work properly if the timer is set to photosensor mode.
- Store string lights properly.
To avoid tangles and broken wires, coil your lights before storing them. String light storage boxes come with plastic reels to wrap the lights around. Use cord reels to extend patio lights or Christmas lights.
Conclusion
Outdoor string lights can illuminate your outdoor area while adding a stylish accent. Ensure you use electricity safely and securely in open areas. The tips above should help you choose outdoor-safe lights and keep your string lights connected safely.
This article was written by a lighting specialist at LD lighting. LD Lighting was Established in 2017 and is located in Central Florida, LD Lighting offers services in screen enclosure lighting, pool lighting, outdoor entertainment, and landscape lighting Orlando. We promise to give you the best quality of work and bring your ideas to life.