How To Protect Outdoor Lights From Rain And Snow

Outdoor lights create a fun atmosphere whether it’s summer or winter. Nothing is scarier than electrical damage, and that’s a real possibility when it comes to outdoor lights. Many homeowners struggle with how to protect outdoor lights from rain and snow.

Use waterproof extension cords to protect your outdoor lights from rain and snow. Make sure that the lights are specifically rated for outdoor use or else rain and snow will cause electrical damage. Install a GFCI outlet to prevent dangerous shorts and keep your outdoor lights under cover so that water doesn’t get into them.

Some homeowners even use solar lights instead of traditional outdoor lights because they are typically waterproof. It’s important to protect outdoor lights because water and moisture can cause electrical damage, fires, and even electrocution. Follow along as we explore how to protect outdoor lights from rain and snow.

Waterproof extension cords can protect your outdoor lights from rain and snow. You can damage your outdoor lights even if they are waterproof if use an extension cord that isn’t waterproof. They are inexpensive and only cost $12-$25 and you can find them at just about any hardware store.

Waterproof extension cords generally feature plastic, rubber, or vinyl coating. This coating is what keeps the water from corroding the cord and causing electrical damage. Not only will this protect your outdoor lights, but it can prevent electrical damage and protect your outlet as well.

Sometimes, it’s worth it to simply replace your outdoor lights if you don’t want to go to a lot of trouble. Replace them with solar lights if you want to go that route because they can handle water and rain exposure in most cases. Solar lights are specifically designed to be outside to get their power, and reputable brands are always waterproof.

You will also save money over time with this option as you don’t have to run power to solar lights. The only downside to this option is that they won’t work at nighttime for too long, especially if it was a day with limited sunlight. Even still, most solar string lights can stay on for several hours after the sun has gone down.

Never use lights outdoors that are meant specifically for indoor use. Indoor and outdoor lights are manufactured differently, so your indoor lights can easily become damaged due to elemental exposure. You won’t be able to protect your lights from rain and snow if they are intended to stay inside.

Indoor bulbs aren’t waterproof like outdoor bulbs, so you can’t count on them. Outdoor lights are also designed to hold up to temperature changes. However, indoor bulbs are susceptible to thermal shock from temperature changes and snow.

If you don’t have a GFCI outlet already, you should install one to protect your outdoor lights. GFCI or ground fault circuit interrupter outlets are generally found in all modern homes. It’s time to install a GFCI outlet outside if you don’t have one to protect your outdoor lighting fixtures.

Not only do they protect your outdoor lights, but they can also protect you and anyone at your home. They can prevent electrocution which is critical for outdoor outlets if you live in a rainy or humid climate. It costs up to $250 to install a GFCI outlet professionally, but it’s worth the cost to protect your outdoor lights and prevent physical harm.

Place your outdoor lights under cover to protect them from rain and snow. This is often necessary even if you waterproof them and use outdoor extension cords. Nothing is perfect, and it’s worth it to minimize as much potential damage as possible.

Choose the location wisely to mitigate how much water exposure they get. Eventually, even outdoor-rated lights can wear out after long-term exposure to rain and snow. Ideally, you should place your outdoor lights in a spot that is partially covered by your roof or something else.

It’s okay for them to get wet if they’re rated for it, but the protective coating may wear out. Even a tarp or umbrella can protect your outdoor lights from rain and snow.

Your outside light will almost certainly break if water gets into it. More importantly, it can also cause electrocution if you are in contact with your outdoor lights when water gets into them. This can happen if there is a crack or weak point in the light itself or the cord.

Fire is another possibility if your outdoor lights are turned on when the water gets into them. Otherwise, the light may simply short out which is the least dangerous outcome. This is a major inconvenience because you’ll need to repair or replace the light, but at least you won’t have to worry about a fire in most cases.

You can protect outdoor lights from rain and snow if you place them under cover to minimize exposure. Only install outdoor lights that are rated for outdoor use or else they will not be able to handle rain and snow. Solar lights are a popular alternative because they are generally always waterproof and can withstand rain and snow exposure.

Install a GFCI outlet to prevent shorts and electrical damage that could ruin your outdoor lights. Make sure that your extension cord is waterproof and has a protective coating made of vinyl, rubber, or plastic. Never touch outdoor lights that are turned on while it’s raining or snowing or you could risk physical harm and electrical shock.