How long do LED string lights last?
LED Christmas light strings have become increasingly popular in recent years, due to their many advantages over traditional incandescent lights. LEDs are more energy-efficient, durable, and last longer. But how long can you expect your LED Christmas light strings to last?
The theoretical lifespan of an LED bulb is 10,000 to 25,000+ hours. However, in real-world conditions, LED Christmas light strings typically last for 6 to 7 seasons if they are properly cared for.
There are a few factors that can affect the lifespan of your LED Christmas light strings:
- Quality: The quality of the lights makes a big difference. Higher-quality lights will last longer than lower-quality lights.
- Exposure: If your lights are exposed to the elements, such as sunlight, rain, or snow, they will degrade faster.
- Usage: If you use your lights for long periods of time each day, they will wear out faster.
- Surge protection: Surges on electrical lines are LED light's biggest nemesis. Whether it's a generator connected to the house, a lightning strike, or a transformer blowing at the end of the block, it pays to plug any LED light string or bulb into a surge protector.
To help your LED Christmas light strings last longer, follow these tips:
- Buy high-quality lights: Invest in a good set of lights that are made with durable materials.
- Protect your lights from the elements: If possible, keep your lights out of the sun and rain. Pack them away (out of the heat of the attic) for the next Christmas season.
- Don't overuse your lights: Don't leave your lights on for long periods of time each day. Use a timer. This will help to extend their lifespan.
If you take proper care of your LED Christmas light strings, they should last for many years to come.
Here are additional tips for extending the lifespan of your LED Christmas light strings:
- Store your lights properly during the off-season. Wrap them in a ball like yarn and store them away in a box or storage container to protect them from dust and dirt. Store them in a closet rather than a hot attic or storage building. Heat can take a toll on the semiconductor and wiring components.
- Inspect your lights before putting them up each year. Look for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires or broken end plugs.
If you follow these tips, your LED Christmas light strings should last for many years to come, providing you with festive holiday lighting for years to come.
