How can I shorten a string of Christmas lights?

When I hang my Christmas lights outdoors around my windows, I would like them to be the precise length I need with no extra lights. How can I shorten a string of Christmas lights to the exact length I need?How can I shorten a string of Christmas lights?The correct answer is: you can't, without a working knowledge of electricity.



Please don't take scissors to them or cut out a section or any of these other crazy suggestions. Light strands are rated for a precise number of lights using a precise wattage of bulb. Cut out a section and the bulbs glow brighter, burn out faster, and the re-joined wire could become a fire hazard as it is handling more heat from the electricity passing through it than it was designed for. To top it off, most modern sets have fuses in their plugs which won't be rated correctly for the shortened set and could cause further damage. In short, if you're looking for a good way to set your house on fire, go ahead and trim the string.



Rather, use zip ties or electrical tape to double the wire between bulbs back on itself, shortening the distance between bulbs. There's no danger posed as in the paragraph above, and you'll have the exact same number of lights the exact distance and length you want.How can I shorten a string of Christmas lights?You could cut a section out, but make sure that the wires that are spliced back (some have two strands, and some have three) are connected to the right ones (ie; ground or hot). Another way is to use tie straps (wire straps on bread packages), to shorten the space between bulbs. It will take more time, but will reduce the chance of messing up the string of lights.How can I shorten a string of Christmas lights?are you putting up Christmas decorations up already? It's not even Halloween yet.How can I shorten a string of Christmas lights?
Scissors