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.
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.
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
How Much Does Professional Christmas Light Installation Cost in 2024?
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, for many, the dazzling display of Christmas lights. While the allure of transforming your home into a winter wonderland is strong, the logistics of installing Christmas lights can be daunting. This is where professional Christmas light installation services come into play. But how much does it actually cost to have professionals handle your Christmas light installation in 2024? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the costs, factors influencing these prices, and tips on how to save money while still achieving a festive display.
Understanding the Average Cost of Christmas Light Installation
As of 2024, the average cost of professional Christmas light installation is around $432. However, this price can range anywhere from $219 to $673 depending on various factors such as the size of your home and the type of lights you choose. For smaller projects, you might spend as little as $219, while larger, more intricate installations could cost upwards of $673 or even more.
Key Cost Factors for Christmas Light Installation
Several factors influence the total cost of a professional Christmas light installation:
1. Linear Footage: Homeowners can expect to pay between $2.50 and $7 per linear foot for installation. This price includes both the cost of materials, which typically range from $0.50 to $2 per linear foot, and the installation labor, which can add $2 to $5 per linear foot.
2. Home Size: The size of your home plays a significant role in determining the overall cost. For example:
- A one-story home with 1,000 to 2,000 square feet might cost between $250 and $600.
- A two-story home of the same size could range from $400 to $1,000.
- Larger homes, such as a three-story house with up to 4,000 square feet, could see costs as high as $1,800.
3. Complexity and Height: More complex installations, such as those requiring extended-height ladders or scaffolding, can increase costs by about 20%. This is especially true for taller homes or intricate designs that require special equipment and expertise.
4. Additional Features: Adding features like tree wrapping, driveway lighting, and novelty decorations can significantly increase the cost. For instance, wrapping lights around a large tree can range from $75 to $1,500, depending on the tree's height.
Cost Breakdown by Home Features
- Roof and Eaves: Installing lights on your roof can cost between $150 and $1,200, depending on the complexity and height of your home.
- Driveways: Expect to pay around $60 to $180 to add lighting to your driveway, enhancing the pathway’s appeal without a hefty price tag.
- Trees: Wrapping lights around trees is one of the more expensive options, with costs ranging from $75 for smaller trees to $1,500 for larger ones.
- Shrubs and Bushes: For smaller touches, like wrapping lights around shrubs or bushes, you might spend between $10 and $20 per shrub. The cost depends on the number of strands needed and the size of the shrub.
- Outdoor Decorations: Festive lawn decorations such as light-up reindeer, nativity scenes, and inflatables can add another $20 to $300 per piece to your bill. Installation costs for these decorations can add an additional $35 per piece.
Christmas Light Removal and Rental Costs
Once the holiday season is over, many homeowners dread the task of removing their Christmas lights. Fortunately, many professional installation packages include removal, but if you opt for removal only, it could cost between $100 and $400, or approximately $0.50 per linear foot.
For those who prefer not to store Christmas lights, rental options are available. Renting lights from your installer can cost between $250 and $600 on average, although larger homes may incur higher rental fees.
Types of Christmas Lights and Their Costs
When considering professional Christmas light installation, the type of lights you choose will also affect your overall costs:
- Incandescent Lights: These traditional lights are the least expensive, costing between $5 and $39 per 25-foot strand. However, they use more energy and burn out more quickly than other options.
- LED Lights: Bright, eco-friendly, and long-lasting, LED lights cost between $13 and $20 per 25-foot strand.
- C7 and C9 Lights: These classic, larger bulbs are a popular choice for rooflines and large outdoor displays. C7 lights range from $6 to $15 per 25-foot strand, while C9 lights can cost between $15 and $70.
- Smart Lights: For the tech-savvy homeowner, smart lights offer the ability to customize colors, effects, and brightness from your smartphone. These high-tech lights cost between $35 and $50 per 25 linear feet.
Regional Cost Variations
The cost of Christmas light installation can vary significantly depending on your location:
- Midwest (e.g., Cincinnati, Ohio): Average cost is $515.
- Northeast (e.g., New York City): Average cost is $650.
- Northwest (e.g., Portland, Oregon): Average cost is $350.
- Southwest (e.g., Phoenix, Arizona): Average cost is $400.
- Southeast (e.g., Miami, Florida): Average cost is $750.
These regional variations are influenced by factors such as local labor rates, demand, and the complexity of typical installations in the area.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
While DIY installation can save you money, professional installation offers several benefits that might make it worth the extra cost. DIY projects typically cost around $0.50 to $2 per linear foot for materials, but if your project involves installing lights over 30 feet high or requires complex electrical work, it’s safer and more efficient to hire a professional.
Professionals not only ensure your lights are installed safely, but they also have the experience to create a polished, festive display that might be challenging to achieve on your own. Additionally, professionals often include maintenance services in their packages, addressing any issues that arise during the holiday season.
The Cost of Running Christmas Lights
Operating Christmas lights throughout the holiday season adds an additional cost to your electric bill. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $5 and $75 per month, depending on the number and type of lights used. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option, helping to keep these costs on the lower end of the spectrum.
How to Save Money on Christmas Light Installation
While professional installation can be costly, there are several ways to save money:
1. Shop Off-Season: Purchase your Christmas lights during the off-season to take advantage of sales and discounts.
2. Repair Instead of Replace: Instead of replacing an entire strand, consider repairing broken lights to extend their lifespan.
3. Use a Timer: Setting your lights on a timer ensures they only run for a few hours each night, reducing your energy costs.
4. Get Multiple Quotes: Before choosing an installer, get at least three quotes to compare prices and services.
5. Book Early: Booking your installation early in the season can sometimes lead to discounts or early-bird pricing.
6. Focus on a Focal Point: Instead of decorating every inch of your home, focus on highlighting one key area, like your roofline or front door, to reduce costs while still creating a festive display.
Permanent Christmas Light Installation: A Long-Term Solution
For those who want to enjoy the benefits of Christmas lights without the hassle of annual installation and removal, permanent Christmas light installation might be the answer. Although the upfront cost is high—around $3,500—these LED lights can last six to ten years, potentially saving you money in the long run.
Permanent lights are installed discreetly along your home’s trim, and they can be controlled via a smartphone app, allowing you to change colors and patterns for different holidays and occasions throughout the year.
The Importance of Electrical Wiring
If your home requires new electrical wiring to support your Christmas light display, you should factor in the additional cost of hiring an electrician. This service typically costs between $50 and $100 per hour. While this might not be included in the Christmas light installation service, it's crucial for ensuring your lights are safely and efficiently powered.
Tipping Your Christmas Light Installer
It’s customary to tip your Christmas light installer between 10% and 20% of the total bill if you’re happy with their service. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for their hard work, especially if they’ve gone above and beyond to create a stunning display.
Professional Christmas light installation is a worthwhile investment for many homeowners who want to enjoy a beautifully decorated home without the hassle and risk of DIY installation. The cost of this service in 2024 varies widely depending on factors like home size, complexity, and regional differences. By understanding these costs and considering ways to save, you can enjoy a festive display that brightens your holiday season without breaking the bank.
Whether you opt for a simple roofline installation or a more elaborate display with trees, bushes, and lawn decorations, hiring a professional ensures your lights are installed safely and look their best throughout the season. For those looking to make a long-term investment, permanent Christmas lights offer convenience and year-round versatility, making them an attractive option for the holiday enthusiast.
So, as you plan your holiday decorations this year, consider the benefits of professional Christmas light installation and make the most of the season’s festive spirit.
How much does professional Christmas light installation cost in 2024?
Answer: The average cost for professional Christmas light installation in 2024 is around $432, with prices ranging from $219 to $673 depending on factors such as the size of your home and the complexity of the installation.
What factors affect the cost of Christmas light installation?
Answer: Key factors include the linear footage of lights, the size and height of your home, the type of lights used, and any additional features like tree wrapping or driveway lighting.
Are there additional costs for removing Christmas lights after the holiday season?
Answer: Yes, if removal is not included in your installation package, it typically costs between $100 and $400, or about $0.50 per linear foot.
What types of Christmas lights are available for professional installation?
Answer: Common types include incandescent lights, LED lights, C7 and C9 bulbs, and smart lights. Each type varies in cost, brightness, and energy efficiency.
Is it cheaper to install Christmas lights yourself?
Answer: DIY installation can save you $2 to $5 per linear foot. However, for complex installations or projects involving tall heights, hiring a professional is safer and ensures a polished result.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional for Christmas light installation?
Answer: Professionals ensure safe installation, provide maintenance throughout the season, and create a festive display with polished results that can be challenging to achieve on your own.
How can I save money on Christmas light installation?
Answer: You can save by shopping for lights during the off-season, repairing lights instead of replacing them, using timers, and getting multiple quotes from installers. Booking early might also secure a discount.
What is the cost of running Christmas lights during the holiday season?
Answer: Running Christmas lights can add $5 to $75 per month to your electric bill, depending on the number and type of lights you use. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option.
Is it worth investing in permanent Christmas light installation?
Answer: Permanent Christmas lights cost around $3,500 upfront but can last 6 to 10 years, potentially saving you money over time. They offer convenience and can be used year-round for various occasions.
Should I tip my Christmas light installer?
Answer: Yes, it's customary to tip your installer between 10% and 20% of the total bill if you're satisfied with their work, especially if they went above and beyond in creating your display.
