Decorating your home with beautiful Christmas lights is a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer. But what if you don’t have an outdoor electrical outlet available to plug those lights into? Don’t worry, there are several clever ways to illuminate your home without having to run extension cords everywhere or pay an electrician to install new outdoor outlets.
Safety First When Dealing with Electricity
Before we get into the various methods for powering outdoor Christmas lights, it’s critically important we discuss electrical safety. Dealing with electricity, especially in outdoor environments exposed to the elements, presents certain risks that should not be ignored. Make sure you follow these general safety guidelines:
- Use lights and cords rated for outdoor use – Do not use indoor lights or extension cords outside. Outdoor lights and cords are made with weatherproof materials that won’t short circuit when exposed to rain, snow, etc.
- Use GFCI outlet protection – Plugging cords into GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets or using GFCI-protected extension cords is highly recommended for outdoor use. This will shut off power if a faulty cord causes a shock hazard.
- Inspect cords for damage – Look for cracked, frayed or exposed wires and throw out any damaged strands of lights or cords. Damaged electrical components can easily start fires.
- Never overload outlets or extension cords – Do not link together more strands of lights than the cord or outlet’s rated capacity. Overloads can cause melting, fires and shock hazards.
- Secure and cover connections – Use outdoor-rated tape or plug covers to protect connections from moisture. Damp connections can short and become a shock risk.
- Use temporary lights safely – Temporary methods like throwing cords through windows should only be used for short periods and with care taken to prevent pinched wires, damaged insulation, etc. Never leave temporary cords unattended.
- Hire an electrician for hardwiring – Unless you are highly experienced with home electrical systems, hire a pro electrician for any method that involves directly wiring into your home’s outdoor or indoor electrical system.
Okay, now that we’ve reviewed some key electrical safety tips, let’s look at methods for powering Christmas lights without outdoor outlets.
Run an Extension Cord Through a Window
One of the easiest and quickest solutions is to run an outdoor-rated extension cord from inside your house to outside. You can simply slide a closed window down on top of the cord to secure it in place and close the window on the cord while still allowing the window to shut.
Be sure to use an extension cord intended and rated for outdoor use, with a minimum three prong grounded plug. Look for cords advertised as outdoor, weatherproof, cold weather, or outdoor winter grade. These are designed to be flexible in frigid temperatures.
Position ladders or landscaping blocks to raise up the portion of lights closest to the window to prevent snow, rain pooling, and foot traffic from damaging the cord.
This works well as a very temporary solution, but take care to avoid pinching the cord excessively in the window opening and always unplug the cord and remove it when you’re done displaying the lights to avoid damage over time. Never leave cords unattended when strung through windows.
💡Pro Tip: Use a window that you don’t frequently open and close to reduce wear and tear on the cord. An upstairs window or a basement window work well.
Use a Temporary Exterior Outlet Cover
Another option is to install a temporary exterior outlet cover over an existing outdoor receptacle. These covers enclose and seal the outlet to make it weatherproof so cords can be plugged in and remain protected from snow, rain, sprinklers, etc.
Purchase covers made specifically for this use, such as the StayPut Outlet Cover, which allows you to plug the lights directly into the outlet. The gasketed lid keeps moisture out. Just remember to unplug all cords before removing the temporary cover.
This is convenient if you happen to have an outdoor receptacle already near where you want to set up the lights. Just note that most standard receptacle circuits can safely handle about 1800-2100 watts before tripping a breaker, so size your light display accordingly.
Use a Portable Outdoor Power Station
Another approach is using a portable outdoor power station as the power source. These are essentially rechargeable batteries designed for outdoor use that have outlets to plug lighting strands into.
They come in varying outlet and power capacities. For example, the Rockpals 300W Power Station offers both AC outlets and USB ports with 300 watts of continuous power and a 500 watt surge capacity.
Benefits are no power cords to run, portable flexibility, and independent operation from your home’s electrical system. Just charge up the power station’s battery using the included charger plugged into any indoor outlet.
Some even have useful extras like built in LED floodlights. Place the power station near your light strands and keep covered and dry. Just be aware runtime is limited per charge, so may require periodic recharging.
💡Key Tip: Calculate the total wattage of your lights and do not exceed the power station’s rated capacity after accounting for a safety buffer. Most lights use around 5-7 watts per bulb.
Plug Into an Outdoor Security Camera’s Outlet
Do you happen to have an outdoor security camera or floodlight? These often have built-in electrical outlets on them for “piggybacking” additional devices, perfect for plugging a strand of Christmas lights into.
Just make sure the added lights do not exceed the camera outlet’s electrical capacity, which is typically 100 watts or less. Measure the wattage of the lights you want to connect and confirm it is within the acceptable range for that outlet.
Also ensure exposing the lights and connections to the elements will not create any hazards. You may need an additional weatherproof cover. Use caution when relying on another electrical device as your power source.
Use Battery Operated LED String Lights
An extremely simple option is using new battery operated LED Christmas light strands. These often use AA or button cell batteries that can power the lights for up to 200 hours.
They have become very affordable and available in micro LEDs that consume very little power. Just ensure the lights are rated for outdoor use.
Mount or hang them as desired, and turn them on and off manually or set automatic timers. No outlet or extension cord is required!
💡Pro Tip: Buy extra packs of replacement batteries well ahead of time so you don’t run out partway through the holidays!
Install Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Cables
For a more permanent and professional solution, consider installing low voltage outdoor landscape lighting cables around areas you want to decorate. These are typically 12V or 24V DC power cables that get buried underground along the path you want lights placed.
You can then connect LED holiday lights designed to run on low voltage landscape cables. This avoids the hazards and visual clutter of high voltage cords strewn about.
Landscape lighting cables are inexpensive and come in lengths like 25, 50 and 100 feet. Just note that low voltage lights contain transformers you’ll need to power, so you still need access to an outdoor receptacle.
Leave the extra length of cable coiled underground for future use after the holidays.
Solar Powered Holiday Lights
Harness the power of the sun to run your festive outdoor lighting! Solar powered holiday light strands contain small integrated solar panels that charge up batteries inside the lights during the day. At night, the charged batteries power the lights automatically.
Position the solar panels in a location where they’ll receive optimal sunlight throughout the daytime hours. South or southwest facing often works well in the northern hemisphere.
Just be aware runtimes can be limited overnight and output may be lower on excessively cloudy or short winter days. But the technology and runtimes are improving all the time.
Call an Electrician for Permanent Outdoor Wiring
If you’re looking for a professional permanent solution, consider hiring an electrician to wire new outdoor receptacles right where you need them. They can bury and conceal all new wiring, install weatherproof boxes and GFCI outlets, and ensure proper circuit protection.
Just be prepared to pay $100-200 per new outlet depending on your home’s siding and construction. Get quotes from a few licensed local electricians before proceeding.
While a more expensive option, it provides reliable permanent power exactly where required through your home’s central electrical system. No need to deal with temporary cords each season.
Outdoor Lighting Ideas Beyond Christmas Lights
Christmas lights are certainly the most common form of elaborate outdoor lighting displays for the holidays. But depending on your style, there are other lighting options to create gorgeous effects as well:
- Lanterns – Line walkways with festive paper, glass or solar-powered lanterns for a wonderful warm glow. Citronella fuel can keep mosquitos away.
- Luminaries – Fill paper bags with sand and a votive or tea light to produce a lovely flickering effect along dark paths.
- Tiki torches – Encircle patios, gardens and lawns with Tiki torches fueled by oil, propane or battery-powered LEDs.
- Outdoor candles – Place flameless battery-operated candles or genuine candles enclosed inside hurricane vases and lanterns.
- Projected patterns – Use outdoor lasers, projectors or fog machines to cast magical moving imagery on trees, fences, etc.
Creative Ways to Mount Lights Without Using Outlets
Beyond just finding a power source, you’ll also need to think about creative ways to securely mount or display your Christmas lights:
Use Clips, Ties and Adhesives
There are many products designed to attach lighting strands along rooflines, gutters, windows, trees and railings without damaging surfaces:
- Clips – Plastic spring loaded clips, c-clips, gutter clips and suction cups can all quickly fasten lights.
- Cable/zip ties – Wrap tie mounts around fixtures and decorative elements like wreaths and garlands to attach lights.
- Adhesives – Use outdoor-safe tapes and adhesives like Command Strips on surfaces where suitable.
- Light fasteners – Twist ties, hooks, clips and staples can attach strands along roofs, fences, etc.
Hang Lights From Shrubs and Trees
Trees and shrubs make great frameworks for mounting light strands. Weave strands throughout branches or attach lights at key points. Aim for even coverage.
For best results, start with trees still having their leaves to conceal wires. If using deciduous trees that have dropped their leaves, consider weaving clear plastic tubing over wires to camouflage against bare branches.
Be careful not to overburden specific branches, especially if using heavy incandescent strands. Excess weight can permanently damage limbs.
Drape Lights Over Entryways and Rooflines
Use plastic hooks secured over doorframes and rafters to hang curtain-like backdrops of lights along exterior doorways and rooflines.
This can create a magical awning of light welcoming guests as they arrive. Just take care to safely elevate the initial anchor points out of reach.
Wrap Columns, Planters and Decor With Lights
By spiraling light strands up and down any narrow fixtures or decorative elements, you can make them into dazzling beacons of seasonal joy.
Poles, columns, corner posts, planters, urns, festive figures…anything that can be encircled by lights can become a gorgeous glowstick!
Just take care to use adequate hooks, ties or clips to secure wiring neatly and not cause damage. Avoid overly pinching or stressing delicate lights.
Use Shaped Frames and Sculptures as Backdrops
For interesting effects, mount light strands in the open spaces of large decorative frames, arches, circles, or scultpted forms. The lights then outline the shapes against walls, fences, etc.
Use sturdy mounting hardware like exterior screws drilled into walls (fill holes later) or u-post stakes in soil or mulch beds.
Cleaning and Storing Lights After the Holidays
Once the season has ended, properly cleaning, organizing, and storing holiday lights will help keep them looking their best and prevent problematic tangles, damaged wires, burned out bulbs, etc.
Cleaning Lights
Give lighting strands a gentle cleaning before packing away:
- Use a soft brush to dislodge dirt and debris caught in wires and bulbs.
- Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and gentle all purpose cleaner to wipe down wires and bulb covers.
- Allow to fully dry before storing. Dry bulb glass prevents cracking.
- Vacuum storage containers before packing lights away to remove dust, bugs, glass shards, etc.
Checking for Damage
Inspect wires, plugs, sockets, and bulbs closely for damage before storing lights away:
- Discard any strands with frayed, cracked, or exposed wiring. These present shock and fire hazards.
- Replace any broken, cracked, or corroded sockets or plug covers.
- Make sure all bulb covers are intact. Cracked bulbs also become a hazard.
- Replace all burned out bulbs so you start fresh next season.
Storing Lights Properly
Use these tips to neatly organize lights to prevent problematic tangles later:
- Gently wrap strands into a coil of 10″ – 1′ diameter loops to prevent kinking wires.
- Place coiled strands in large clear zipper bags or plastic storage totes.
- Store indoors in a clean, dry attic, closet, basement, or garage.
- Keep different light types, lengths, and colors in separate containers.
- Label and inventory bags/containers so you know exactly what’s inside.
- Hang heavy duty extension cords on wall-mounted hooks.
Final Thoughts
With a bit of creativity and proper planning, there are numerous ways to install beautiful outdoor Christmas lights even if you lack conventional outdoor outlets. Always put safety first when dealing with electricity and use caution with temporary power solutions.
If you need lights up for just a single season, battery packs, solar, or carefully running extension cords through windows can work well. For multi-year use, installing additional permanent exterior outlets or low voltage landscape lighting may be worth considering.
However you manage to plug in those strands, bathing your home in twinkling festive lights will infuse your holidays with much merrier memories!
Frequently Asked Questions About Displaying Outdoor Christmas Lights Without Outdoor Outlets:
Below are some common questions people have about powering and displaying outdoor Christmas lights without using outdoor outlets:
Q: How many lights can I safely run together from a single outlet?
A: It depends on the wattage of the lights, but a general rule of thumb is no more than three 100-bulb incandescent light strands daisy chained together per outlet, or six to nine strands of LED lights which use less energy. Always check that you do not overload the outlet’s rated capacity.
Q: Can I bury an extension cord outdoors to run lights?
A: Burying cords is dangerous and violates electrical code in most areas. Outdoor-rated cords must remain visible for inspection and protected from damage. Use an outdoor-rated exterior extension cord properly mounted along a wall or post.
Q: Is there an adapter to convert my outdoor outlets to Christmas light plugs?
A: Yes, you can purchase outlet adapter caps that convert a three-prong outdoor electrical receptacle into multiple plugs for connecting light strands. Just do not overload the outlet’s capacity. Be sure to weatherproof all connections.
Q: Can I leave holiday lights plugged in overnight outdoors?
A: Leaving any electrical cords and lighting unattended for extended periods outside is not recommended, due to risks of damage, overheating, and fire. Inspect cords daily and unplug each night. For long term use, install permanent outdoor receptacles wired professionally.
Q: How do I hang lights safely from my roof and gutters?
A: Use plastic clip hooks specifically designed not to damage shingles. Never nail or screw anything into the roof surface which can cause serious leaks. Weight strands together and tie off securely so they cannot fall into walkways. Take extreme care when using ladders.
Q: How long do solar powered Christmas lights run at night?
A: Depending on power output and battery capacity, most solar lights will operate 6-12 hours overnight. Extremely cold temps can reduce runtime. Place solar panels in optimal direct sun exposure during daylight hours to maximize charging.
Q: Can I just run an extension cord out a closed window?
A: Running cords outside through windows is not ideal and should only be done very temporarily while attended. Use an outdoor-rated cord and take care not to overly pinch or damage insulation. Never leave cords unattended when run through windows.
Q: Is there an easy way to get new wiring to my outdoor tree?
A: Yes, low voltage outdoor landscape lighting wire is an inexpensive and safe way to add new wiring anywhere needed outdoors. Run the buried and concealed flexible cable along the path needed, leaving some extra length coiled for future use.
Conclusion
Lighting up your home for the holidays does not require outdoor receptacles. With proper precautions, there are many creative temporary and permanent solutions for powering and displaying Christmas lights. Just focus on electrical safety, think through the logistics, and your home will shine bright with seasonal cheer. Have a