String Lights: Safe Bedroom Decor Or Hidden Hazard?

String lights are a popular way to illuminate spaces, both indoors and outdoors. They come in various lengths and can be used to brighten up a small area or cover an entire wall. While string lights can enhance the aesthetic of a space, it is important to consider safety precautions when using them. In this article, we will discuss the safety of using string lights in bedrooms, including potential electrical hazards, fire risks, and other factors to ensure safe usage. We will also explore different types of string lights, such as fairy lights and globe lights, and provide tips for choosing the right lights for your space.

Wattage and safety

Lower-wattage lights are generally safer, as they can be connected in longer strings without overloading an outlet. For example, a set of 40-watt string lights can be safely connected in a string of five, as long as they are the same bulb type and wattage. However, higher-wattage lights provide brighter illumination, but they may require more caution to avoid tripping circuit breakers.

It is important to be cautious when connecting multiple strings of lights together, as overloading a string can lead to deadly fires. To avoid this, keep track of the number of lights connected and always check the combined wattage to ensure it doesn't exceed your outlet's capacity.

In addition to wattage, there are other safety considerations to keep in mind. It is recommended to use a GFCI outlet, which provides protection against a variety of potential electrical hazards. It is also important to regularly inspect your lights for any signs of damage or wear and tear, as old or worn strings can pose a fire hazard.

Furthermore, the length of the light strands should be limited, as the thin wire on a light set is typically designed to handle only a certain amount of current. For example, a typical light set can handle a maximum of 1.8 amps of current (216 watts).

By considering the wattage and following safety guidelines, you can ensure that your string lights are safe to use in your bedroom.

UL-rated lights

UL stands for Underwriters Laboratories, an independent organisation that tests and certifies products for safety. UL-rated lights have been tested and approved by the UL and are therefore safe for use.

When it comes to choosing the right UL-rated lights for your bedroom, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need to determine whether your bedroom is a dry, damp, or wet location. This will help you choose the right type of UL-rated lights.

If your bedroom is a typical indoor area that is not usually damp, you would need UL-rated lights for dry locations. These lights are designed for areas with adequate ventilation, preventing any accumulation of moisture. Dry locations include bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, foyers, and hallways.

On the other hand, if your bedroom has a source of water or moisture, such as a bathroom or kitchen, you would need UL-rated lights for damp locations. These lights are suitable for areas with condensation or humidity and can withstand moisture without coming into direct contact with water.

It's important to note that UL-rated lights for wet locations are also an option for bedrooms. These lights are designed to withstand direct contact with water or other liquids and are safe for both indoor and outdoor use.

When purchasing UL-rated lights, look for the UL rating information on the box or packaging. It will usually say "UL Listed" for dry locations or "Suitable for Damp/Wet Locations" for the respective ratings.

For example, the Koopower Indoor Fairy Lights mentioned in The Spruce's article on the best string lights for bedrooms are UL-rated, ensuring safe operation and preventing overheating.

Avoiding old or worn strings

When using string lights, it is important to avoid using old or worn-out light strings. Old light strings that have been stored away in a hot attic for several months are more likely to be damaged and may need to be replaced. Before setting up your lights, use testers to check for damaged sockets, bad bulbs, or blown fuses, and make any necessary repairs.

Light strings with worn or brittle wires can pose a fire hazard and should be thrown away immediately. It is also important to avoid using extension cords that show any signs of wear and tear, even if you are plugged into a GFCI outlet. GFCI outlets help protect against a range of electrical hazards, but it is still important to ensure that your cords are in good condition.

To prevent electrical hazards, it is recommended to limit the length of your light strands. The circuits in your home may handle 15 to 20 amps, but it's important to remember that you may have other appliances plugged in besides your lights. The thin wire on a light set is typically designed to handle no more than 1.8 amps of current (216 watts). That is approximately five 40-watt strings, assuming they are all the same bulb type and wattage.

LED string lights are a safe option for indoor and outdoor use. They are designed with a low voltage, bendable copper wire that is flexible yet durable. However, it is recommended to avoid submerging them in water and to only use them outdoors when it is not raining. Overall, by following these safety precautions and regularly inspecting your string lights, you can avoid the dangers associated with old or worn-out light strings.

Length of light strands

When choosing string lights for your bedroom, it's important to consider the length of the light strands to ensure both the desired aesthetic and safety.

String lights come in a variety of lengths, from 10 to 108 feet, allowing you to decorate a small area or cover an entire wall. For example, a 100-bulb string of about 33 feet can adequately cover a small to medium-sized bedroom for accent lighting. If you're looking to illuminate a larger space, consider longer options like the ZAECANY LED String Lights, which are 108 feet long and can provide ample accent lighting for a bigger bedroom.

However, it's important to be cautious when using long light strands to avoid overloading your electrical circuits. The circuits in your home may handle 15 to 20 amps, but it's important to consider the number of other appliances plugged in. The thin wire on a typical light set is usually designed to handle up to 1.8 amps of current (216 watts), which is approximately five 40-watt strings of the same bulb type and wattage. To ensure safety, many holiday light manufacturers recommend connecting no more than three strings of incandescent lights together, while LED sets can be longer.

Additionally, longer light strands may be more prone to tangling and can be challenging to store. For example, the ZAECANY LED String Lights, despite their impressive length, come on a spool that requires patience to wind them back onto for storage.

When deciding on the length of light strands for your bedroom, consider the size of the space, the number of other appliances plugged in, and the potential challenges of longer strands, such as tangling and storage.

Using outdoor-rated bulbs

When it comes to using string lights, safety is paramount, especially when using them outdoors. Here are some essential considerations for using outdoor-rated bulbs in your string lights setup:

Bulb Types and Safety Ratings

Not all bulbs are created equal when it comes to outdoor usage. While C7 and C9 bulbs are generally safe for outdoor use, the same can't be said for other types of bulbs used in patio light strings. It's crucial to understand the safety ratings and appropriate usage of different bulbs.

Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs are safe for outdoor use, but they must be protected from direct contact with water. If used in an open area, it's recommended to take them down immediately after an event.

LED Bulbs

The usage of LED bulbs depends on their safety rating. Damp location-rated LED bulbs can be used where moisture is present but should not come into direct contact with water. These bulbs are not suitable for permanently installed light strings. On the other hand, wet location-rated LED bulbs can safely come into direct contact with water and are ideal for use in open areas.

GFCI Outlets

Always plug your cords into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet. This type of outlet provides protection against various electrical hazards. Even with a GFCI outlet, never use an extension cord that shows any signs of wear and tear.

Regular Maintenance

Before using your outdoor string lights, inspect them for any damage. Use testers to check for damaged sockets, faulty bulbs, or blown fuses, and make any necessary repairs. If you notice worn or brittle wires, dispose of the entire string immediately as they can pose a fire hazard.

Avoiding Overloading

Be mindful of the number of lights you connect together. Holiday light manufacturers typically advise connecting no more than three strings of incandescent lights. For LED sets, you can connect longer strings, but always refer to the manufacturer's instructions. Overloading a string can lead to deadly fires, so it's crucial to stay within the recommended limits.

By following these guidelines and using outdoor-rated bulbs, you can safely enjoy your string lights setup outdoors while minimising the risk of electrical hazards and accidents. Remember to regularly inspect your lights and adhere to safety recommendations to ensure a pleasant and secure lighting experience.

Frequently asked questions