C9 & C7 Socket Spools & Stringers

Discover our premium collection of socket wire spools and stringers, the essential foundation for creating stunning light displays. Designed for both professional installers and ambitious homeowners, our range includes bulk C7 and C9 socket wire spools with flexible spacing options, pre-made light stringers for quick setups, and convenient accessories like spool holders. These versatile, durable components are perfect for residential rooflines, enchanting tree displays, and large-scale commercial projects. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and compatible with both incandescent and LED bulbs, our professional-grade products offer the quality and flexibility needed to bring your creative lighting visions to life. Explore our selection and elevate your illumination projects with unmatched versatility and reliability.

Socket Spools

C9 1000' Socket Spool

Our C9 1000' Bulk Spool of Socket Wire, available in green or white, offers professional-grade flexibility for custom lighting projects. With spacing options from 6" to 48", it's ideal for both residential rooflines (12-15" spacing) and tree installations (24-48" spacing). The durable SPT-1 wire withstands outdoor conditions and is compatible with both incandescent and LED C9 bulbs. This customizable spool allows for precise length cutting, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency for high-quality, adaptable lighting displays.

C9 500' Socket Spool

Our C9 500' Bulk Spool of Green Wire, available with 12" (500 sockets) or 15" (400 sockets) spacing, is perfect for professional-grade Christmas lighting installations. Featuring commercial-quality SPT-1, 8-amp wire and durable E17 sockets, this customizable spool is ideal for large-scale outdoor projects. Easily cut to desired lengths and pair with snap-on plugs (sold separately) for tailored lighting solutions in both residential and commercial settings. The 12" spacing offers vibrant, balanced lighting, while the 15" option provides a classic look with fewer bulbs per run.

C9 1000' 12"&15" Socket Wire Spool (SPT-2)

Our C9 1000' Socket Wire Spool (SPT-2) offers professional-grade flexibility with dual 12" and 15" spacing options. This customizable spool features heavy-duty SPT-2 wire for enhanced durability in all weather conditions. The 12" spacing is perfect for dense, vibrant displays on rooflines and pathways, while the 15" option provides a classic look with fewer bulbs per run. Compatible with both incandescent and LED C9 bulbs, this 1000' spool allows for precise cutting to fit any residential or commercial lighting project, ensuring efficient and long-lasting installations.

C7 1000' Green Wire Socket Spool (SPT-2)

Our 1000' bulk spool of green SPT-2 wire features 15" spacing with 1000 C7 sockets, ideal for commercial and residential outdoor displays. This 8-amp (960-watt) commercial-grade wire with Admiral Brand sockets allows for custom-length installations using snap-on plugs (sold separately). Suitable for indoor/outdoor use, it accommodates up to 160 sockets with 5-watt incandescent bulbs or 384 sockets with 1-watt LED bulbs per run. This versatile, durable C7 light line is perfect for creating professional-quality lighting displays in various settings.

C7 1000' Socket Spool

Our C7 1000' Bulk Spool of Socket Wire offers professional-grade flexibility for custom lighting projects. Available in green or white, with spacing options from 12" to 36", it's ideal for both residential rooflines (12-15" spacing) and tree installations (24-36" spacing). The durable SPT-1 wire withstands outdoor conditions and is compatible with both incandescent and LED C7 bulbs. This customizable spool allows for precise length cutting, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency for high-quality, adaptable lighting displays in various settings.

C7 1000' Socket Spool

Minleons C7 1000' socket wire spools with options for factory Socket clips

or without factory Socket Clips. Available in 12" or 15" spacing.

C9/C7 500' Magnetic Spool

The Fastest Way to Install Holiday Lights on Metal Surfaces. Save time and effort this holiday season with Magnetic Spools. Designed for quick and easy installation, these magnetic spools are perfect for decorating your home or office building. The magnetic sockets eliminate the need for traditional mounting clips, making your installations faster and more efficient. Whether you’re lining rooflines, gutters, or fences, these spools are ideal for any surface where ferrous metal is present.

Available in 500' & 250', 12" or 15" Spacing.

C9/C7 Heavy Duty Swivel Spool Holder

Versatile Wire Spool Holder:

• Compatible with C7 and C9 spools

• 360-degree swivel capability

• Foldable design for compact storage

• Dimensions: 24" x 24" x 20"

Note: Socket wire sold separately.

Socket Wire Stringers

C9 12" Spacing Socket Wire Stringers

Our 25', 50' or 100' Holiday Light String features professional-grade, UV-protected 18-gauge wire with sockets spaced 12" apart. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, these UL-recognized strings offer 5 Amp capacity SPT-1 insulation and durable sockets with weep holes for all-weather performance. Compatible with E12 Candelabra base bulbs (C7, C9, G30; sold separately), these versatile strings allow end-to-end connectivity for extended displays. Perfect for holiday decorations, event lighting, and year-round use in residential and commercial settings. Available in Green, White, Brown and Black.

C7 12" Spacing Socket Wire Stringers

Our professional-grade 25', 50' or 100' light string features sockets spaced 12" apart, perfect for commercial and residential decorators. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it's compatible with incandescent or LED C7, G30, and G40 bulbs (sold separately). The SPT-1 insulated wire offers 5 Amp capacity and includes weep-hole sockets for all-weather performance. With male and female plugs for end-to-end connections, these UL-recognized strings can handle up to 480 watts per run. Ideal for holiday displays, patio lighting, and year-round events, these durable strings ensure long-lasting, brilliant illumination for any occasion. Available in Green, White, Brown and Black.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between socket wire spools and stringers?

cket wire spools are bulk reels of wire with sockets at regular intervals, allowing for custom-length cuts. Stringers are pre-cut lengths of socket wire, typically with plugs attached, ready for immediate use.

Can I use the same socket wire for both C7 and C9 bulbs?

No, C7 and C9 bulbs require different socket sizes. Always check the product specifications to ensure you're using the correct socket wire for your chosen bulb type.

How do I determine the right spacing for my project?

Common spacings are 12", 15", and 24". Use closer spacing (12"-15") for dense, vibrant displays on rooflines or fences. Wider spacing (24" or more) works well for tree wrapping or creating a more subtle effect.

Are these socket wires suitable for outdoor use?

Most of our socket wires are rated for both indoor and outdoor use. Look for products labeled as "weatherproof" or "outdoor-rated" for the best durability in external conditions.

How many bulbs can I safely connect on a single run?

This depends on the wire's amperage rating and the wattage of your bulbs. For example, on an 8-amp wire, you can typically run up to 160 sockets with 5-watt incandescent bulbs or 384 sockets with 1-watt LED bulbs. Always check the product specifications and local electrical codes for safe operation.

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Illuminating Insights: Navigating the Pros and Cons of Year-Round Christmas Lights

April 13, 20247 min read

Christmas lights have a magical way of transforming any space into a wonderland of warmth and cheer. It's no surprise that many people are tempted to keep their twinkling lights up long after the holiday season has passed. While the idea of basking in the glow of Christmas lights year-round may seem appealing, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks and regulations surrounding this practice. In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of leaving Christmas lights up year-round and offer some alternative lighting options to keep your property looking beautiful and inviting throughout the year.

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Temporary Installation Regulations

Before we dive into the pros and cons of year-round Christmas lights, let's first discuss the concept of temporary installations. In most jurisdictions, Christmas lights are considered temporary installations, meaning they are only permitted to remain in place for a limited time. The exact duration may vary depending on local regulations, but it is common for temporary installations to be allowed for a maximum of 90 days.

These regulations are put in place for several reasons. First and foremost, safety is a top priority. Temporary installations, such as Christmas lights, may not be designed to withstand prolonged exposure to the elements, which can lead to potential hazards like electrical shorts or fires. Additionally, leaving lights up for extended periods can cause them to deteriorate more quickly, increasing the risk of malfunction.

Aesthetic considerations also play a role in temporary installation regulations. While Christmas lights can be enchanting during the holiday season, they may lose their charm and appear out of place when left up year-round. Furthermore, excessive or prolonged use of lights can contribute to light pollution, which can negatively impact the environment and the community's overall ambiance.

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Potential Drawbacks of Leaving Christmas Lights Up Year-Round

Violating local regulations is one of the most significant drawbacks of leaving Christmas lights up year-round. Failing to adhere to the prescribed time limits for temporary installations can result in fines, penalties, and even legal consequences. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with your local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before installing Christmas lights or other temporary lighting displays.

In addition to legal ramifications, leaving Christmas lights up year-round can lead to a decreased lifespan for your lights. Constant exposure to the elements, such as sun, rain, wind, and snow, can cause lights to fade, crack, or malfunction more quickly than if they were only used seasonally. This means you may find yourself replacing your lights more frequently, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Higher energy costs are another potential drawback of year-round Christmas lights. Keeping lights on for extended periods can significantly increase your electricity bill, particularly if you have a large display or use energy-intensive lights. This not only puts a strain on your wallet but also contributes to unnecessary energy consumption, which can have negative environmental impacts.

Lastly, the aesthetic appeal of Christmas lights may diminish when they are left up year-round. The novelty and magic of twinkling lights are often tied to the holiday season, and when they become a constant presence, they may lose their special charm. Additionally, leaving lights up year-round can create a cluttered or tacky appearance, detracting from the overall curb appeal of your property.

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Alternatives to Year-Round Christmas Lights

If you love the idea of illuminating your space but want to avoid the drawbacks of year-round Christmas lights, there are several alternatives worth considering. One option is to create seasonal light displays for other holidays throughout the year. For example, you could put up spooky lights for Halloween, pastel-colored lights for Easter, or patriotic lights for the Fourth of July. By rotating your light displays, you can keep your property looking festive and inviting without violating temporary installation regulations or overwhelming your space.

Another alternative is to invest in permanent landscape lighting. Unlike temporary Christmas lights, professional landscape lighting is designed to withstand the elements and provide year-round illumination. Strategically placed landscape lights can highlight your property's best features, enhance curb appeal, and even increase property value. Plus, with the help of a professional lighting designer, you can create a custom lighting plan that suits your specific needs and preferences.

Temporary light displays for special occasions are another great option. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, wedding, graduation, or another milestone event, temporary lights can add a festive touch without the commitment of a year-round display. You can work with a professional lighting company to design and install a temporary display that perfectly suits your event's theme and atmosphere.

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While the idea of leaving Christmas lights up year-round may seem enchanting, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks and regulations surrounding this practice. Temporary installation regulations, decreased lifespan of lights, higher energy costs, and diminished aesthetic appeal are all factors to keep in mind before committing to a year-round display.

However, this doesn't mean you have to forgo the beauty and ambiance of illumination altogether. By exploring alternatives like seasonal light displays, permanent landscape lighting, and temporary installations for special occasions, you can keep your property looking stunning and inviting throughout the year while adhering to local regulations and avoiding the pitfalls of year-round Christmas lights.

Remember, the key to successful and sustainable lighting is finding the right balance between aesthetics, practicality, and compliance. By considering the pros and cons of year-round Christmas lights and exploring alternative options, you can create a lighting plan that brings joy and beauty to your space for years to come.

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1. Q: Are Christmas lights considered temporary installations?

A: Yes, in most jurisdictions, Christmas lights are considered temporary installations and are only permitted to remain in place for a limited time, typically up to 90 days.

2. Q: Why are there regulations on temporary light installations?

A: Regulations on temporary light installations are in place for safety reasons, to prevent the deterioration of lights due to prolonged exposure to the elements, and to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the community.

3. Q: What are the potential consequences of leaving Christmas lights up year-round?

A: Leaving Christmas lights up year-round can result in fines, penalties, and legal consequences for violating local temporary installation regulations. It can also lead to increased energy costs and a decreased lifespan for the lights.

4. Q: Can leaving Christmas lights up year-round affect their appearance?

A: Yes, leaving Christmas lights up year-round can cause them to lose their special charm and novelty associated with the holiday season. It may also create a cluttered or tacky appearance, detracting from the property's overall curb appeal.

5. Q: What are some alternatives to year-round Christmas lights?

A: Some alternatives to year-round Christmas lights include creating seasonal light displays for other holidays, investing in permanent landscape lighting, and setting up temporary light displays for special occasions.

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6. Q: How can permanent landscape lighting enhance a property?

A: Permanent landscape lighting can highlight a property's best features, enhance curb appeal, and increase property value. It is designed to withstand the elements and provide year-round illumination.

7. Q: Can temporary light displays be used for events other than Christmas?

A: Yes, temporary light displays can be used to add a festive touch to various events such as birthdays, weddings, graduations, and other milestone celebrations.

8. Q: What should be considered before committing to a year-round Christmas light display?

A: Before committing to a year-round Christmas light display, consider the potential drawbacks, such as violating local regulations, increased energy costs, decreased lifespan of the lights, and the potential for diminished aesthetic appeal.

9. Q: How can a professional lighting company help with landscape lighting?

A: A professional lighting company can help design and install a custom landscape lighting plan that suits your specific needs and preferences while adhering to local regulations. They can also provide guidance on the best lighting options for your property.

10. Q: What is the key to successful and sustainable lighting for a property?

A: The key to successful and sustainable lighting is finding the right balance between aesthetics, practicality, and compliance with local regulations. This can be achieved by exploring alternative lighting options and consulting with professional lighting designers.

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Jason Geiman

Jason Geiman parlayed his early passion for festive lighting into a thriving Christmas décor installation company which he founded and grew for over 4 years before selling the business in 2018. Now, he draws from his experience scaling a holiday lighting venture to help other Christmas lighting companies maximize their success. Jason feels compelled to share shortcuts he learned running his decoration operation. Jason has made it his mission to enable both residential and commercial clients to execute jaw-dropping lighting displays more easily. He loves experimenting with the latest high-tech LED bulb innovations to incorporate into his instructional programs and resources for those running their own Christmas lighting businesses. After selling his original company, he reinvented himself - driven as ever to spread seasonal magic, but now by helping others grow their holiday lighting ventures successfully. Follow Jason for regular tips on taking your Christmas lights business to the next level!

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