Christmas Holiday Lights and Voltage Considerations
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How to Check The Voltage Specifications of Your Christmas Lights and LED Lights and Avoid Problems © By: Dave Rongey |
Check The Voltage Specifications of Your Christmas Lights
Electrical Question: The company that I want to order a certain type of LED light for my Christmas lights is in the UK. These are multi function that give a waterfall effect. In the FAQ of their site it states their lights won’t work in the USA but yet I have seen these same lights here working.
What do I need to make them work here?
This electrical question came from: Dee Dee, a Homeowner from Shreveport, LA
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Dee Dee.
Check The Voltage Specifications of Your Christmas Lights
- The UK has a 220 volt system for their lighting and outlet circuits, whereas in the USA we have 120 volts for our lighting and outlets in our homes.
- If you were to use a 220 volt device such as these lights they will only be operating at half the needed power. This may damage the lights, especially devices that have any type of electronic circuitry.
- It is possible to install a 220 volt circuit to use these lights, but if you do, then the plug on the cord and the 20 volt outlet must have the 220 volt plug configuration otherwise if the standard 120 volt configuration were used and a 120 volt device was plugged into the actual 220 volt outlet the device would be damaged, and this would be hazardous.
I mention this because I experienced this when working in the Philippines where the standard 120 volt configuration was used so when I plugged in my 120 volt battery charger the charged was damaged.
The Following links will assist you with your Holiday Lights:
- By replacing with energy efficient lights, bills have been reduced to $40.
- Residents must bring in old lights to exchange and a copy of their current Utility bill, their account number or billing address to receive the free lights.
Electrical safety Tips for Your Home
- Electrical safety tips start with prevention as the Key.
- By implementing a few electrical safety tips you will be reducing your risk of property damage and personal harm.
How To Install Electrical Outlets
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Wiring Electrical Outlets with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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