Power Source
Making sure your Christmas lights are safely protected should always be a priority, whether for indoors or outdoors – so it’s best to keep the socket indoors running the wire through a window or door corner or alternatively use a covered outdoor socket.
Of course, lights aren’t going to work without a power source and it usually comes down to two main choices…
Plug
If your garden has an outdoor socket already, then you’re perfectly fine to buy plug-in lights than run off the mains. Sometimes the plug just doesn’t stretch which is where an extension cable comes in handy. Just make sure any outdoor socket is protected from wet weather with a cover or case.
TOP TIP: We recommend adding a Residual Current Device (RCD) adaptor to your outdoor sockets. If you get a power surge, it will cut off your electricity supply and help avoid any nasty accidents.
Batteries
No plug handy? Don’t worry – there’s an enormous range of lights that are battery powered. This means you can put them virtually anywhere without worrying about trailing cables or power surges. Be sure to stock up on replacement batteries though, or rechargeable ones if you want to save some money.
Timer: For a simple way to turn your lights off when you’re not home or not outside, a timer switch is extremely useful. Some lights come with them already, but if not – adding one can be a good way to save time and money.