HOW TO WIRE CUSTOM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
How to wire Custom Christmas Lights
Proper Power Planning is Preeminent
It is very important to plan the overall power management. Up to 200 feet/bulbs of 18 gauge wire can go to one plug-in. If you need to run many lights, it may make more sense to first run an extension cord up to the roof and then attach custom 18 gauge wire from there. Individual sections can be connected end-to-end or with in-line female plugs. You can also wire in accessories such as pre-lit wreaths.
Assemble bulbs and clips
Using bulk SPT-1 wire sockets, screw on the LED bulbs in the chosen pattern. Our clips are sandwiched between the socket and bulb. Roof clips or lawn stakes will be added later, so don’t assemble with a clip for these applications.
Install gutter, ridgeline, and ridgecap bulbs
Using the appropriate clip, attach the bulbs to the house. Remember safety first, then quality, and then efficiency. If you have pre-planned your power you can connect your plugs at this time.
Install Gilbert/zip plug terminals/connectors.
The LAST plug to be wired in is the live, fused male that connects to the house or extension cord. This is wired last so that it is impossible for anyone to work with live wire and hurt themselves. Please see the above video for a full description of how to use Gilbert plugs. Slide the plug open and identify the wider plug, this is connected to the rough or ridged side of the wire. Make sure that the sharp tooth of the plug bites all the way through the insulation to make full contact with the copper inside. Having a poor connection is responsible for 99% of lighting problems so slow down and do it right the first time. Also, make sure that power always enters at a male connection and that there is only 1 male per section of wire sockets/stringers. A section of wire with male plugs on both ends is properly called a “suicide cord”.
Test!
After double-checking that all cut wires have had a terminal or male/female plug installed and that everything is safe and ready, wire in the final fused male plug and test the total power/amperage draw to make sure there aren’t any short circuits or problems. SPT-1 18 gauge wire can safely carry up to 7 amps but due to voltage drop, we typically terminate runs at 200 feet (these calculations are for our LED bulbs, incandescents and other brands may have different values).