One of the greatest joys of the holiday season is taking a drive to look at the light displays in the neighborhood.  Since that time of year is fast approaching, many people are giving serious thought to their Christmas light installation.  Here are a few tips and suggestions you might find helpful during this process.

First, test all the lights you plan on using before you put them on your home.  There is nothing more frustrating than going through the time and effort necessary to hang the Christmas lights only to find out they do not work.  Also inspect the wires and cords of each light strand to look for fraying and wear and tear.  It is also important to use lights that are approved for outdoor use.  When it comes to connecting strands of lights during your Christmas light installation, it is important to use waterproof electrical tape to do so.

Next, obtain the proper clips and fasteners to safely complete your Christmas light installation.  Who can forget that funny scene in the movie “Christmas Vacation” when Chevy Chase’s character staples the lights to the house?  Using metal fastening devices such as staples, nails or screws is dangerous, as they act as conductors for electricity.  Instead purchase plastic or rubber clips that are designed for holding lights on your home.  You can find these items at a local hardware store, or online from a Christmas light retail website.

When you are ready to climb the ladder to install the Christmas lights on your home be sure to keep safety in the front of your mind.  If possible work with a friend or family member to install the lights.  He or she can hold the ladder while you climb it to hang the lights.  Always make sure the ladder is secure on the ground and never lean to hang the lights.  Take the extra few seconds to climb down the ladder and move it to the next spot for the Christmas light installation.

If you need to use extension cords to get power to the Christmas lights, take care to use ones that are approved for outdoor use.  They are going to be outside in the elements for several weeks (or in some cases months) so you do not want to use a product that could short out or cause a fire.

A timer is a good choice for turning the Christmas lights on and off.  How many times do you turn on the lights, only to forget to shut them off when you go to bed?  There are many different types of Christmas light times available for sale.  A good one to choose is one that turns the lights on at dusk and gives you the option to turn them off at a specified time.

Outdoor decorations lend a great deal of festivity and spirit to the holiday season.  When it comes to Christmas light installation for your home you are only limited by your imagination and budget.  A decorated home gives joy to you, your family and friends and neighbors.