AboutBob Sponaugle Expertise I can answer any question related to outdoor Christmas and Halloween decorating. It can range from the technical, as far as problems with wiring, how to fix light sets. It can also be asthetic, as far as color combinations, etc.
Experience I have been decorating since I was 7 years old. I set up Christmas displays with over 8000 lights, tastefully done.
Awards and Honors I have won neighborhood decorating contests since I was 14 years old
Expert: Bob Sponaugle Date: 5/31/2008 Subject: Outdoor Sting Lights
Question I just strung together a bunch of outdoor string lights over my patio. (I know nothing about electricity.) I plugged an extension cord into the outlet and then into the first strand. These string lights are set up just like Christmas lights. When I plugged the 7th strand into the first 6, the first 6 strands went out. The bulbs don't look like they've blown, but I can't get them to light up again. Have I ruined the 6 strands that I've already strung all around my patio (which took 4 hours?)
Answer Hi.
Check the instructions. You can put only 2 or 3 sets in a row. Add some extension cords, so that you have no more than the maximum allowed sets in a row.
The fuses in the plug are probably blown. Hopefully they gave you spare ones. If not, borrow them from Christmas sets, or check in the electrical department of a home center store. Start with the first one in the string and replace them. Then see if any other sets need them replaced.
