Professional-Grade Wires and Plugs

for Custom Lighting Solutions

Welcome to our comprehensive collection of high-quality wires and plugs, designed to empower both professional installers and passionate DIY enthusiasts. These essential components form the foundation of any exceptional lighting display, offering the versatility and durability needed to bring your creative visions to life. From bulk spools of SPT-1 and SPT-2 wire to weather-resistant Gilbert plugs and convenient end caps, our range caters to all your custom lighting needs. Whether you're crafting intricate holiday displays, enhancing landscape lighting, or tackling large-scale commercial projects, our professional-grade wires and plugs ensure reliable performance and seamless integration. Explore our selection and discover the perfect electrical components to elevate your lighting installations, combining safety, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal in every project.

SPT 1 Wire & Plugs

250' Zip Cord (SPT-1)

Enhance your lighting installations with our versatile 250' Spool of Lamp Cord SPT-1 Extension Wire (Zip Cord), perfect for both professional and DIY decorators. This 18-gauge, 2-conductor wire, rated for 8 amps or 960 watts, allows you to easily create custom extension cords, add jumper wires, or extend C9 and C7 stringers for rooflines and holiday displays. Its durable design suits both indoor and outdoor applications, offering reliable performance for small to large-scale projects. Available in Green, White, Brown, and Black, this easy-to-work-with zip cord provides the flexibility and durability needed for creating custom lighting solutions in any setting.

500' Green Zip Cord (SPT-1)

Our 500' Spool of Green Lamp Cord SPT-1 Extension Wire (Zip Cord) offers versatile solutions for custom lighting setups. This 18-gauge, 2-conductor wire, rated at 8 Amps or 960 Watts, is perfect for creating personalized extension cords, adding jumper wires to rooflines, or extending C9 and C7 stringers. Compatible with our SPT-1 male and female plugs (sold separately), this durable wire is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Whether you're a professional installer or a DIY enthusiast, this 500' spool provides ample length for various lighting projects, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in your custom lighting designs.

1000' Green Zip Cord (SPT-1)

Our 1000' Spool of Green Lamp Cord SPT-1 Extension Wire (Zip Cord) is a high-quality, 18-gauge, 2-conductor wire is perfect for creating custom extension cords, adding jumper wires to rooflines, or extending C9 and C7 stringers. Rated for 8 amps or 960 watts, it offers reliable performance for both residential and commercial projects. The green color blends seamlessly with outdoor foliage and durable design suits both indoor and outdoor use. Ideal for professional installers and DIY enthusiasts alike, this generous 1000' spool provides ample wire for customization, ensuring you have the right length for any project.

Male Gilbert Plugs SPT-1

Enhance your custom Christmas lighting projects with our SPT-1 Gilbert Male Zip Plugs, available in green, white, brown, and black. These high-quality, weather-resistant plugs are specifically designed for use with SPT-1 zip cord, making them ideal for creating custom light strings and extension cords. Featuring a 2-prong polarized design for safety and stability, these plugs are constructed from heavy-duty plastic to withstand harsh winter conditions. Unlike standard options, our male zip plugs resist bending or breaking in cold weather, ensuring straight and reliable prongs throughout the season. Perfect for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts, these durable plugs are essential for creating long-lasting, custom Christmas light displays that perform flawlessly in any environment.

Female Gilbert Plugs SPT-1

(with Knockout Tab)

Elevate your custom Christmas lighting projects with our Female Gilbert SPT-1 Zip Plugs featuring a knockout tab, available in green, white, brown, and black. Specifically designed for SPT-1 zip cord, these durable plugs are ideal for creating reliable custom light strings and extension cords. The 2-prong polarized design ensures secure connections, while the heavy-duty plastic construction withstands harsh outdoor conditions. Unlike standard options, these plugs resist bending in cold weather, making them perfect for winter installations. Whether you're connecting light strands end-to-end or crafting custom extensions, these resilient female zip plugs offer superior performance for both professional and DIY Christmas lighting setups.

Gilbert ONE Plugs SPT-1

(with Knockout Tab)

Simplify your Christmas light installation with The One Plug, which connects two wires directly—no separate male and female plugs needed. This innovative design saves time, making your setup faster and more efficient. Built with durable plastic and sturdy prongs, it's designed to last throughout the season, ensuring reliability for any lighting project. Perfect for anyone looking to streamline their holiday light displays with ease and dependability.

SPT 2 Wires & Plugs

250' Zip Cord (SPT-2)

This versatile 18-gauge, 2-conductor wire is engineered for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts, offering the durability and flexibility needed for creating custom extension cords, adding jumper wires to rooflines, or extending C9 and C7 stringers. Rated for 8 amps or 960 watts, this robust SPT-2 wire ensures powerful and safe connections for all your lighting needs. Its weather-resistant properties make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, allowing you to bring your creative holiday lighting visions to life in any setting. Whether you're working on a small residential project or a large-scale commercial installation, our SPT-2 Extension Wire provides the reliability and performance required to create stunning, long-lasting Christmas light displays. Available in green, white, brown & black.

Male Plugs (SPT-2)

Elevate your custom lighting projects with our superior Male zip plugs, engineered for exceptional performance in even the harshest conditions. Unlike standard options, these plugs boast prongs that resist bending in cold weather, ensuring reliable connections throughout the winter season. Perfectly suited for creating custom Christmas light strings or tailored extension cords, these plugs attach effortlessly to the end of zip cord electrical wire. The green SPT-2 male zip plugs are specifically designed to complement green SPT-2 zip cord, offering a seamless and professional appearance. Featuring a 2-prong polarized design for safety and stability, these plugs are constructed from heavy-duty plastic to withstand the rigors of both indoor and outdoor use. Available in green and black.

Female Plugs

(with Knockout Tab (SPT-2)

Enhance your custom lighting projects with our premium Female Gilbert SPT-2 zip plugs, designed for superior performance in all weather conditions. Unlike standard options, these plugs feature prongs that maintain their integrity even in frigid temperatures, ensuring reliable connections throughout the winter season. Perfect for creating custom Christmas light stringers or bespoke extension cords, these versatile plugs attach effortlessly to zip cord wire, allowing you to connect strands end-to-end with ease. The white SPT-2 female zip plugs are specifically tailored to complement white SPT-2 zip cord electrical wire, providing a seamless and professional appearance. Equipped with a 2-prong polarized design for safety and stability, these plugs are constructed from heavy-duty plastic..

Male & Female Plugs

10 Pack (SPT-2)

Elevate your custom lighting projects with our top-of-the-line Male & Female zip plugs, engineered for unparalleled performance in all weather conditions. Unlike standard options, these plugs feature prongs that resist bending even in frigid temperatures, ensuring reliable connections throughout the winter season. Perfect for crafting custom Christmas light stringers or bespoke extension cords, these versatile plugs attach seamlessly to zip cord wire, allowing for easy end-to-end strand connections. The black SPT-2 Male & Female zip plugs are specifically designed to complement black SPT-2 zip cord electrical wire, offering a sleek and professional appearance. Featuring a 2-prong polarized design for enhanced safety and stability, these plugs are constructed from heavy-duty plastic, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Gilbert One Plug SPT

The One Plug makes Christmas light installation a breeze by directly connecting two wires, eliminating the need for separate male and female plugs. Its efficient design saves time and speeds up your setup. Crafted from durable plastic with sturdy prongs, it's built to last all season, making it a dependable choice for any lighting project. Ideal for anyone wanting to simplify their holiday light displays with ease and confidence. Available in Green, White, Brown and Black

Misc

Wire Termination Cap

Enhance the safety and appearance of your lighting projects with our high-quality wire end caps, available in convenient bags of 10. These essential accessories are designed to protect the exposed ends of your wiring, preventing potential hazards and providing a clean, professional finish to your installations. Crafted from high-grade, durable materials, these end caps ensure long-lasting protection against moisture, dust, and accidental contact. Their user-friendly design allows for quick and easy application, making them ideal for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts. Whether you're working on holiday lighting, landscape illumination, or any other wiring project, these end caps offer a simple yet effective solution for securing and safeguarding your wire ends, ensuring both safety and aesthetics in your electrical setups.

Gilbert One Plug

The One Plug makes Christmas light installation a breeze by directly connecting two wires, eliminating the need for separate male and female plugs. Its efficient design saves time and speeds up your setup. Crafted from durable plastic with sturdy prongs, it's built to last all season, making it a dependable choice for any lighting project. Ideal for anyone wanting to simplify their holiday light displays with ease and confidence. Available in Green, White, Brown and Black

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between SPT-1 and SPT-2 wire?

SPT-1 wire is thinner and more flexible, ideal for lighter-duty applications and tighter spaces. SPT-2 wire has thicker insulation, making it more durable and better suited for heavier-duty outdoor use and longer runs. Both are available for custom lighting projects, but SPT-2 is generally recommended for extensive outdoor installations.

Can I use these wires and plugs for both indoor and outdoor lighting projects?

Yes, our wires and plugs are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. They're constructed with weather-resistant materials to withstand various environmental conditions. However, always ensure proper installation and follow safety guidelines for outdoor electrical setups.

How do I choose the right color of wire and plugs for my project?

Choose wire and plug colors that match or complement your installation surface. Green wires blend well with foliage, white is great for light-colored surfaces, and black offers a sleek look against dark backgrounds. Matching colors also helps create a more professional, seamless appearance in your lighting display.

What's the advantage of using Gilbert plugs over standard plugs?

Gilbert plugs are known for their superior durability and cold weather performance. Unlike standard plugs, Gilbert plugs resist bending and breaking in low temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor winter installations. They also provide a more secure connection, reducing the risk of disconnection or electrical issues.

How many lights can I safely connect using your SPT-2 wire?

Our SPT-2 wire is typically rated for 8 amps or 960 watts. The number of lights you can safely connect depends on the wattage of your bulbs. For example, using 5-watt bulbs, you could connect up to 192 lights. Always check the wattage of your specific bulbs and never exceed the wire's rated capacity to ensure safety.

Discover Expert Tips on Our Blog

LED Christmas lights

How long do LED string lights last?

March 06, 20249 min read

As you string up your LED lights, reminiscent of a time when candles flickered on tree branches, you might ponder their lifespan. These modern marvels promise longevity, but it's not as simple as plugging them in and forgetting them.

The durability of LED string lights hinges on factors you can influence, from the make and model to maintenance rituals. Imagine enjoying the same set of lights for countless celebrations, their glow undimmed by time.

Before you drape another strand over your mantelpiece, let's explore how to maximize their life, ensuring they brighten many more chapters of your story.

Christmas lights

LED String Lights Lifespan

How long do LED string lights actually last?

You might be surprised to learn that while the theoretical lifespan of an LED bulb ranges from 10,000 to 25,000+ hours, the real-world lifespan of LED Christmas light strings is typically 6 to 7 seasons. This discrepancy isn't due to a failure in technology but rather hinges on several key factors, including quality assurance, exposure to environmental factors, and adherence to electrical safety measures.

First off, quality assurance plays a pivotal role in the longevity of your LED string lights. High-quality lights, manufactured under strict durability standards, are designed to withstand numerous seasons. These lights are tested for energy efficiency and durability, ensuring they live up to their promised lifespan. When you're shopping for LED string lights, it's crucial to look for products that meet these high standards of quality assurance.

Environmental factors also significantly impact the lifespan of your lights. While LEDs are more energy-efficient and durable than traditional lighting options, they're still susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions. However, LED lights engineered with robust casings can resist the wear and tear of environmental exposure, extending their functional life.

Lastly, electrical safety can't be overstressed. LED string lights that are built with surge protection and comply with electrical safety standards are less likely to suffer from electrical malfunctions, further prolonging their lifespan. It's essential to choose string lights that incorporate these safety features to ensure not just a longer life for your lights but also a safer environment for their use.

There are many reasons to choose LED Christmas lights besides their long life span. Read more about these benefits on our blog post Shining Bright: The Benefits of LED Christmas Lights.

Christmas lights training

Factors Affecting Longevity

Several factors can significantly impact the longevity of your LED string lights, from the quality of the product to its exposure to harsh environmental conditions. You'll find that exposure impact isn't just a buzzword; it's a real concern that can shorten the life of your lights. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, and snow can degrade the materials, leading to quicker wear and tear. You've got to consider protective measures to shield them from the elements, ensuring they last as long as possible.

Usage duration plays a pivotal role too. The more you use your LED string lights, the faster they'll reach the end of their lifespan. It's crucial to strike a balance in how often you light them up. Quality importance can't be overstated either. Investing in high-quality LED lights might cost more upfront, but they're designed to withstand longer periods of use and harsher conditions.

Care routines also make a huge difference. Regularly checking your lights for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires or broken bulbs, and addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage that might shorten their lifespan. Protective measures, like using a surge protector, can safeguard your lights against electrical surges that could fry the delicate LED components.

In essence, while LED string lights are touted for their longevity, ensuring they last requires a proactive approach. Paying attention to quality, limiting their exposure to damaging conditions, moderating their usage, and adhering to diligent care routines are all key to maximizing their lifespan.

Christmas lights

Enhancing Lifespan Tips

To significantly extend the life of your LED string lights, start by investing in high-quality products and adopting proper care routines. High-quality lights adhere to superior quality standards, ensuring they're built to last longer and withstand more wear and tear than their cheaper counterparts. This initial step is crucial in ensuring you're not frequently replacing your lights, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

Next, consider the impact of weather protection. LED string lights are often exposed to harsh outdoor conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Protecting your lights from the elements can significantly reduce the risk of damage. Look for lights designed for outdoor use, featuring waterproof or water-resistant ratings. This will safeguard your lights against weather-related wear, extending their lifespan.

Your usage habits also play a significant role in the longevity of your LED string lights. Avoid leaving your lights on 24/7. Overuse can lead to premature burnout. Instead, turn them off when not needed or consider using a timer to manage their operation automatically. This approach not only prolongs the life of your lights but also conserves energy.

Storage and Maintenance

After exploring how to enhance the lifespan of your LED string lights, let's focus on the importance of proper storage and maintenance for ensuring their longevity.

Proper storage isn't just about keeping your lights out of the way when they're not in use; it's about preserving their quality and functionality for the next season. Wrap your lights carefully, avoiding tangles that can lead to damage, and store them in a cool, dry place. Hot attics or damp basements are a no-go, as extreme temperatures and moisture can degrade the lights over time.

Maintenance routines are equally crucial. Before you pack your lights away, take a moment for a quality check. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires or loose connections. Addressing these issues now can save you from a headache later. Additionally, employing surge protectors when your lights are in use can prevent power surges from shortening their lifespan. This simple step can make a significant difference in protecting your investment.

Lastly, consider timers usage to regulate how long your lights are on. This not only saves energy but also reduces the strain on the LEDs, potentially extending their life. Timers can ensure that your lights aren't left on longer than necessary, avoiding overuse.

Christmas lights

Annual Inspection Guide

Before you deck the halls each season, it's crucial to perform an annual inspection of your LED string lights to ensure they're in top working condition. This maintenance checklist will guide you through identifying any potential issues, ensuring your lights shine bright throughout the festive period.

First up, safety precautions can't be overstated. Check each string for frayed wires or damaged bulbs, as these could pose fire hazards. If you spot any signs of wear and tear, refer to your troubleshooting guide to decide if a simple repair will suffice or if you're better off with replacement options.

When it comes to repair techniques, some issues like loose bulbs or minor wire exposure can often be fixed at home. However, remember that safety comes first. If you're unsure about how to proceed, it's better to replace the faulty string than risk an accident.

Speaking of replacement options, sometimes it's more cost-effective in the long run to invest in new LED strings. If your lights are nearing the end of their lifespan—typically 6 to 7 seasons for most quality LED lights—upgrading to a new set might be your best bet. This is also an excellent opportunity to upgrade to more energy-efficient models or change your design aesthetic.

Lastly, ensure your lights are connected to a surge protector during use. This simple step can significantly extend their lifespan by protecting them from voltage spikes.

Christmas lights

Can the Color of LED String Lights Fade Over Time, and if So, What Causes This?

Certainly, the color of your LED string lights can fade over time. Factors like color stability, material degradation, UV exposure, and heat impact play pivotal roles. Sunlight and high temperatures can particularly cause colors to dull.

Additionally, manufacturing variances mean some lights might start fading sooner than others. To minimize this, consider lights with better quality and enhanced UV protection, and place them in areas less exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures.

Are There Any Environmental or Health Considerations to Be Aware of When Disposing of LED String Lights?

When you're ready to dispose of your LED string lights, consider recycling options due to hazardous components they may contain.

Disposal laws vary, so check local regulations to minimize environmental impact and health risks.

Some parts of LED lights can be harmful if not handled properly. Recycling helps reduce those risks and supports a healthier planet.

Don't just toss them out—look into eco-friendly disposal methods to do your part!

How Does the Variation in Voltage Supply Affect the Lifespan of LED String Lights?

Variations in voltage supply can significantly impact your LED string lights' lifespan. Without proper voltage stability, power surges can damage the lights, shortening their life.

Using dimming functionality without ensuring electrical compatibility can also harm them.

To protect your lights and extend their lifespan, it's crucial to invest in surge protection. This way, you'll safeguard against unpredictable voltage fluctuations and ensure your LED string lights last as long as possible.

Can LED String Lights Be Repaired if a Section Stops Working, or Do They Need to Be Completely Replaced?

Yes, you can often repair LED string lights if a section stops working, instead of replacing them entirely. Mastering soldering techniques is key for reconnecting broken wires.

Knowing connector types helps you make precise fixes. Don't overlook wire gauge importance; it ensures your repairs handle the correct current.

Use troubleshooting tips to identify issues quickly. Finally, apply protective coatings to repairs to shield them from the elements, extending their lifespan.

What Are the Cost Implications of Switching From Traditional Incandescent String Lights to LED String Lights in Terms of Energy Consumption and Lifespan Savings?

Switching to LED string lights might seem like a leap into the unknown, but it's more like stepping into a brighter, more cost-effective future.

You'll face upfront costs, including the purchase price and retrofit challenges, but the lower installation costs, reduced maintenance frequency, and potential rebate programs sweeten the deal.

Plus, the energy consumption and lifespan savings quickly outshine initial expenses, making this switch not just smart, but brilliantly economical in the long run.

Christmas lights

In wrapping up, your LED string lights are more than just seasonal sparklers; they're long-term companions in creating ambiance. Remember, their lifespan isn't set in stone but can be stretched with a little TLC.

From braving weather wars to dodging power surge bullets, taking care of them ensures they'll keep your nights brightly lit for years. Store them carefully, and let annual check-ups be your ritual.

Like fine wine, with age and care, your lights will only glow brighter, making every moment magical.

LED Christmas lightsxmas lightsChristmas lights installation
blog author image

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!

Back to Blog

Copyright ©2024 All Right Reserved website designed by christmaslights.io

Terms of Service / Privacy Policy

Have questions or need assistance?

Contact us at (855)619-LITE