The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, and one of the best ways to add a festive touch to your home is by decorating with Christmas and holiday lights. However, purchasing and setting up these lights can sometimes lead to frustration and disappointment if not done right.
Let's take a look at some of the top mistakes people make when buying holiday lights and how to avoid them, ensuring your home shines bright all season long.
1. Not Planning Ahead
One of the most common mistakes people make is not planning their holiday light decorations in advance. Waiting until the last minute can result in limited availability and rushed choices. Take the time to plan out where you want to place the lights, how many strands you'll need, and what type of lights will best suit your space. This way, you can shop early and avoid the stress of settling for whatever is left on the shelves.
2. Ignoring Energy Efficiency
Holiday lights can consume a significant amount of energy, leading to higher utility bills. Ignoring energy efficiency when purchasing lights is a mistake both for your wallet and the environment. Opt for LED lights, which are not only more energy-efficient but also last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. They emit less heat as well, reducing the risk of fire hazards.
3. Overlooking Safety Standards
Safety should always be a top priority when decorating your home with holiday lights. Unfortunately, many people overlook safety standards, leading to accidents and potential fire hazards. Always check for safety certifications and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper installation. Avoid overloading outlets with too many lights, using damaged cords, or leaving lights on overnight. Investing in outdoor-rated lights for outdoor displays is also crucial to prevent damage from the elements.
4. Not Considering the Aesthetic
When buying holiday lights, it's important to consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Choosing mismatched colors or styles can create a chaotic or disorganized look. Decide on a theme or color scheme that complements your home's architecture and your personal preferences. Coordinated lights will contribute to a more cohesive and visually appealing display.
5. Underestimating Quantity Needed
Underestimating the number of lights you need is a common mistake. You might end up with gaps in your display or an uneven distribution of lights. Measure the areas you intend to decorate and calculate the length of lights required accordingly. It's better to have a little extra than not enough!
6. Sacrificing Quality for Price
While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, sacrificing quality for a lower price can lead to disappointment in the long run. Cheap lights are more prone to breaking, dimming, or malfunctioning, which can ruin your entire decoration setup. Invest in quality lights that are designed to withstand outdoor conditions and ensure consistent brightness throughout the holiday season.
7. Neglecting Proper Storage
Proper storage is often an afterthought, but it's crucial to preserve the longevity of your holiday lights. Many people simply toss their lights into a box, leading to tangles and damaged cords. Invest in storage solutions like reels or specially designed storage containers to keep your lights organized and protected during the off-season. For some tips on how we like to store lights, check out our blog post Christmas Light Storage Tips.