How to Make the Lights Last on Your Pre-Lit Christmas Tree
Pre-lit Christmas trees are a holiday game-changer. They save time, eliminate tangled cords, and create a perfectly lit tree right out of the box. However, some people hesitate to purchase a pre-lit tree because they fear the lights won’t last. The good news is that with proper care, the lights on your pre-lit tree can last for many, many years—up to 10 years or longer! Like any holiday decoration, pre-lit trees do require a little TLC to keep their lights shining year after year. Here’s how to keep your pre-lit Christmas tree glowing beautifully for seasons to come.
1. Choose a Quality Pre-Lit Tree
Start with a well-made pre-lit tree from a reputable brand. Look for LED lights, which last longer, use less energy, and stay cool to the touch. Bonus points if the tree has replaceable bulbs, as this can extend its lifespan significantly. Purchasing a high-quality tree will ensure you are purchasing a tree that’s built to last.
2. Read the Manual (Seriously!)
We know—reading instructions isn’t the most exciting part of decorating. But your pre-lit tree’s manual has essential info on how to set it up properly, connect the light sections, and replace bulbs. Following these guidelines helps prevent wiring issues and extends the life of your tree.
3. Be Gentle During Setup
Handle your tree with care when assembling and fluffing its branches. Tugging too hard on branches or forcing sections together can damage light connections. Take your time, ensuring each section is securely connected and that cords aren’t stretched too tightly.
4. Check the Lights Before Decorating
Before adding ornaments and garlands each season, plug in your tree to check for burned-out bulbs or unlit sections. If you spot any issues, replace the bulbs promptly. Many pre-lit trees come with extra replacement bulbs in the box—be sure to hang onto them! Even if your tree has a “continuous-on” feature, which prevents the entire strand from going dark when a bulb burns out, it’s still important to replace burned-out bulbs. Multiple burned-out bulbs can put extra stress on the remaining ones, causing the entire strand to fail more quickly.
5. Use Surge Protectors
Plugging your pre-lit tree into a surge protector can prevent electrical surges from damaging the lights. This is especially important if you live in an area with frequent power outages or storms. Bonus: Many surge protectors have timers, so you can set your lights to turn on and off automatically.
6. Turn Off the Lights When Not in Use
While it’s tempting to leave your tree lights on 24/7, giving them a break extends their lifespan. Turn off the lights when you’re not home or before bed. Consider using a smart plug or timer for added convenience—no need to crawl under the tree to unplug it!
7. Store Your Tree Carefully After the Holidays
Proper storage is crucial for keeping your pre-lit tree in great shape. Disassemble the tree carefully, following the instructions. Avoid cramming it into a box; instead, use a sturdy tree storage bag that keeps the branches and lights protected from dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
8. Reach out for Help
If you notice persistent light issues – have no fear! If you purchased your Artificial Christmas Tree from your Prairie Gardens & Jeffrey Alans tree shop, we’ll troubleshoot the light issues for you. Just bring in the section of your tree with the light issues, and your PG & JA tree experts will diagnose the issue. If your tree has seen better days, upgrading to a newer model with longer-lasting LED lights might be the best option.
9. Know when to Replace
If your tree has seen better days, upgrading to a newer model with longer-lasting LED lights might be the best option.
With these tips, your pre-lit Christmas tree can shine brightly for many joyful holiday seasons.
