String lights should not only look good once they are in place. They should also be installed correctly and checked from time to time, especially if they stay outdoors all year round or are used a lot.
At LY Sweden, we think it is worth spending a few extra minutes on installation and inspection. It makes a big difference both for safety, for how long the string lasts and for making sure it stays sealed and continues to work as it should.
This is one of the most important things to keep in mind. The bulbs should be screwed in as far as possible by hand. When the bulb is properly in place, the socket forms a good seal around the bulb, which helps keep moisture out.
The string lights should always be installed so that the bulbs hang downwards. They should therefore not be installed so that the bulbs point upwards or sideways.
This is important to make the installation as sealed and safe as possible. The lamp holders must be installed so that the bulbs are only directed downwards. Also make sure that bulbs and sockets hang freely downwards and keep distance from other materials.
Another important detail is the end connector of the string. The string lights have an end cable with a waterproof protective cover, and according to the manual, before use you should make sure that the protective cover is tightly screwed on. The end cable should also be fixed so that the end connector points upwards.
We therefore think it is wise to double-check the end connector once a year, especially if the string stays outdoors for a long time. Check that the protective cover is still firmly screwed on and that the end is mounted correctly.
Outdoor lighting is exposed to weather, wind, UV light and temperature changes. That is why it is a good idea to inspect the string lights from time to time. We recommend periodically checking the cable and sockets for wear caused by weather, UV light or other damage, and worn string lights should be replaced immediately.
We recommend checking the following:
If the string lights are going to run over a longer distance, it is important that they have proper support. The string lights must be supported by steel wire or other suitable hardware when the distance exceeds 12 metres. It also states that structural support is needed at least every 7 metres.
We therefore usually recommend wire or another good support when the string is going to run over open areas or longer spans. That reduces the load on the string and gives a more stable installation.
If you need to replace a bulb, you should always start by switching the power off. The power must be turned off before connecting, changing bulbs or carrying out maintenance, and bulbs on outdoor strings should not be changed in rain or when conditions are wet.
When you screw in a new bulb, it should be screwed in until the socket seals tightly around the bulb and the bulb gets proper contact. If a bulb does not light up, you can try bending up the small metal tab at the bottom of the socket for better contact.
Summary of care and safety: