Using Indoor Christmas Lights Outdoors & Other Common Mistakes

holiday lights on white home

The tradition of hanging holiday lights has been around for centuries, it has just maybe changed a bit with time. Of course, that also means that errors have been made concerning Christmas lights, for just as long. If you would like to put an end to making these types of mistakes, this is the perfect place to learn more about how to avoid making erroneous choices.

Preventing Seasonal Lighting Faux Pas

More than likely, you are guilty of one or more of these holiday lighting mistakes. Don’t feel bad – you are not alone! The good news is that now that you know more about these common mistakes, it is time to put an end to them.

One of the most alarming errors is operating exterior Christmas lights without an outdoor outlet. The only acceptable manner in which to install and operate outdoor lighting is with exterior GFCI outlet and extension cords designed for outdoor use. Aside from not working properly, you run the very real risk of damaging the lighting, as well as causing harm to yourself or anyone who comes in contact with the lights.

The same goes for using indoor Christmas lights, on the outside of your house. Even if they work, it probably won’t be for long. Why waste the money putting lights outside that won’t hold up against the harsh conditions of winter elements?


If your design lacks any color, you could be making a big mistake. Homeowners often use simple but warm white lights, which simulates the original implementation of just candles in the first holiday lighting displays, from centuries ago. However, this can look lackluster. At least choose a few splashes of color which break up the monotony, and end up becoming the focal point of the display.

Now that Christmas lights are available in LED, it only makes sense to make the transition. LED looks cleaner, burns longer and is more energy-efficient, which also means they are also more cost-effective. You will be so amazed at the difference, you will wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner.

Attractive looking lights don’t happen without a plan. Attempting to “wing it” will be obvious, and it is probably better to avoid that altogether. Either do it right, or not at all.

On that note, going the DIY route at all for your lighting is not a good idea. Professional holiday and event lighting means you get carefully planned, expertly installed and well-maintained lights throughout the holiday season.

Know the Name to Call

Local home and business owners know Inviting Lights is the local holiday lighting company name to entrust, for all of your Christmas lighting. We provide the best in design, product and installation, all for beyond reasonable prices. Let us create the perfect holiday light display for you, using all LED lighting, so you can enjoy it, without doing any of the work.

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