How to Check Christmas Lights: Troubleshoot 3 Common Issues

The holiday season is upon us and it's time to deck the halls with festive Christmas lights. But what happens when you plug in your lights and they don't work? Don't panic, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll discuss some common Christmas lights issues and provide a troubleshooting guide to help you get your lights shining bright again.

First, Ensure Your Lights Are Good To Go

The twinkling magic of Christmas lights is undeniable, but amidst the holiday sparkle, lurks a hidden concern: safety. Before you deck the halls with watts of delight, take a moment to check if your lights are both safe and good. Here's how:

1. Assessing Potential Hazards

Look for the UL mark, inspect cords for damage, and ensure plugs fit snugly. Outdoor lights need to be weatherproof, and don't overload outlets. Bulbs should match the wattage recommendation.

Also, you need to ensure that the socket isn't cracked or loose. Keep lights away from flammable materials and check the fuse in older sets.

2. Evaluating Light Quality and Longevity

For a good light experience, look for consistent brightness and color throughout the string. Check for spare parts and store your lights carefully. Consider using timers to avoid leaving them on all night. When in doubt, don't plug it in!

How To Fix Lights Issues

Case of the Burnt Bulb

Diagnosis

How to find the burnt bulb in Christmas lights? Carefully inspect each bulb for signs of damage, such as a dark spot on the filament or a broken glass casing.

A burnt-out bulb will typically look different from the other bulbs in the string. If you have a light tester, use it to check each bulb in the string. The light tester will beep when it detects a working bulb and will not beep when it detects a burnt-out bulb. 

Solution

Now that you've identified the rogue bulb, it's time to replace it. But before you do, make sure to turn off the power to the lights.

With the power down, grab a stepladder if needed and carefully reach for the burnt-out bulb. Gently unscrew it, avoiding touching the glass or metal part to avoid electrical shock. Replace the old bulb with a new one of the same type and wattage. Finally, flip the power switch!

Flickering Lights

Diagnosis

One common issue we often experience is lights suddenly flickering with annoying flashes and dips in brightness. The flickering may be because of loose connections or a malfunctioning plug. Sometimes, even branches brushing against the wires can be the culprit.

Solution

To troubleshoot, first firmly insert the plug into the outlet and ensure it's secure. Then, check the wire connections between each section of the string lights and make sure they're properly tightened.

Finally, gently shake the tree to see if any bulbs have become loose. Find one? Then you need to tighten it. Remember to be gentle to avoid creating a bigger tangle!

Total Blackout

Diagnosis

A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker can plunge your lights into darkness. Faulty wiring or overloaded outlets can also be the grinch.

Solution

Check the plug for a small compartment with fuses. If they're blown, replace them with the same size and rating. If the lights dim when you plug in other appliances, it's an overloaded circuit.

Unplug some extras and try again. If the lights still don't work, consult a professional electrician for deeper issues.

Other Glitches and Fixes

• Tangled Mess: Before troubleshooting, untangle your lights carefully to avoid further damage.

• Power Surge: If your lights flicker or go out after a power surge, unplug them for a few minutes to let them reset.

• Dimming Lights: Check for overloaded outlets. Distribute your lights across different outlets or use power strips with built-in overload protection.

• Outdoor Woes: Ensure outdoor lights are weatherproof and use GFCI outlets for added safety.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the LED Revolution!

You can save energy in many ways, especially over the holidays. Switching to LED lighting is one option. LED lights are not only energy-efficient and long-lasting, but they also burn cooler, reducing the risk of fire and burnt-out bulbs. Consider switching to LEDs for a more sustainable and worry-free holiday glow. 

Additional Resources

For detailed instructions on specific light sets, consult your manufacturer's manual. Online forums and communities are often offering helpful advice and troubleshooting tips. But if you're unsure, better to seek help from a qualified electrician.

Conclusion

This guide equips you to conquer common Christmas lights challenges and keep your festive display aglow. Ensure safety, check for potential hazards and the light quality. Learn to fix burnt bulbs, address flickering lights, and overcome total blackouts with step-by-step solutions.

Remember, seek professional help if you are in doubt. Shine on and enjoy a merry, brilliantly lit holiday season!