{"title":"Waterproof outdoor LED string lights","description":"\u003cp\u003eFirst count the available socket, the length to cover and the actual exposure to rain: these three points decide the IP rating, the power supply and the useful length. A waterproof outdoor LED string light is chosen on these criteria, not on its decorative effect alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cnav aria-label=\"Contents\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#definition\"\u003eWhat is a waterproof outdoor LED string light?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#alimentation\"\u003ePlug-in or rechargeable?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#longueur\"\u003eHow many metres should you allow?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#emplacements\"\u003eWhere should you install it?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#lumiere\"\u003eWhich light should you choose?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#pose-entretien\"\u003eHow do you install and maintain it?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#erreurs\"\u003eWhich mistakes should you avoid?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#ruban-recoupable\"\u003eHow does a cuttable LED strip work?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/nav\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"definition\"\u003eWhat is a waterproof outdoor LED string light?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA waterproof outdoor LED string light stays outside in the rain because its cable, connectors and light points are protected according to an IP rating. An IP44 model withstands splashes, an IP65 model water jets. Waterproof does not mean submersible, unless explicitly stated on the product sheet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWaterproof, water-repellent or submersible: what are the differences?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA water-repellent string light resists a few drops, without guaranteeing lasting installation in the rain. A waterproof string light states an IP rating and sealed connectors. A submersible string light, often IP67, withstands temporary immersion. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/designix.fr\/collections\/guirlandes-led-ip44\"\u003eIP44 LED string lights\u003c\/a\u003e suit a sheltered balcony, while an exposed facade requires a higher rating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA higher rating does not replace careful fixing. For an open pergola or a railing, compare the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led-ip65\"\u003eIP65 LED string lights\u003c\/a\u003e before fixing the line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat an IP rating really protects\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first digit concerns solids, the second water. An IP44 protects against splashes and fine rain, an IP65 against water jets, an IP67 against temporary immersion. No rating makes a connector waterproof if it stays in a puddle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eIP rating\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eResists\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhere to install it\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTo avoid\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIP44\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWater splashes and fine rain\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCovered terrace, sheltered balcony\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDirect hosepipe spray, immersion\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIP65\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWater jets and steady rain\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFacade, railing, open pergola\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProlonged immersion\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIP67\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemporary immersion\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePond edge, very exposed area\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePermanent stay under water\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNo IP rating\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNothing guaranteed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIndoors only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAny outdoor exposure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"alimentation\"\u003eWaterproof outdoor LED string lights: plug-in or rechargeable?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe choice depends first on the socket: a 220V string light plugs into a protected outdoor socket, a 24V string light goes through a transformer, a solar or rechargeable string light is installed without a cable. Low voltage and solar suit balconies without a socket, mains power suits long fixed lines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMains, low voltage or solar panel: what changes in use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led-220v\"\u003e220V LED string light\u003c\/a\u003e suits a fixed line, provided you have a protected outdoor socket and respect the connectable length. A \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led-24v\"\u003e24V low-voltage LED string light\u003c\/a\u003e requires a transformer placed in a sheltered spot, which makes installation near a walkway easier. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led-solaires\"\u003eSolar string lights without a socket\u003c\/a\u003e need only an exposed panel, with variable performance on overcast days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWaterproof outdoor LED string lights to hang where there is no socket\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn a balcony without a socket, a rechargeable string light avoids running an extension lead. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led-rechargeables\"\u003eRechargeable LED string lights\u003c\/a\u003e are charged before the evening and moved from one dinner to the next. Check the stated battery life on the product sheet and plan a second charge for a long evening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePower supply\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to provide\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTypical use\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePoint to check\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e220V mains\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA protected outdoor socket\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFixed string light on facade or terrace\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTotal length connectable to the socket\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e24V low voltage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA suitable transformer\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eString light installed near a walkway\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTransformer location, sheltered\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSolar\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA well-exposed panel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGarden or balcony without a socket\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePerformance on overcast days\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRechargeable\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA charge before the evening\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDinner outside, mobile decoration\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBattery life stated on the product sheet\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"longueur\"\u003eWaterproof outdoor LED string lights: how many metres should you allow?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasure the length to cover, railing, pergola ridge or around a tree, then add the slack needed between two fixing points. The spacing of the light points matters just as much: the closer they are, the more continuous the line looks. Finally check the total length and whether it can be connected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBalcony, terrace or pergola: measure before hanging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn a balcony, take the length of the railing and add a return to the socket. Under a pergola, allow for the span from one beam to the other, without pulling the cable like a rope. A \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-lumineuses\"\u003efestoon string light\u003c\/a\u003e laid in a zigzag needs more length than a straight line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eConnecting two string lights end to end: what to check\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnd-to-end connection depends on the connectors and the power supply unit. Each model states a maximum connectable length: add up the lines and stop at that limit. Beyond it, the light dims or the unit heats up. To compare the results, the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led\"\u003estring lights range\u003c\/a\u003e brings together the available models.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"emplacements\"\u003eWhere should you install a waterproof outdoor LED string light?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstall it where the rain falls: under a pergola, along a railing, on a facade or around a tree. Avoid hollows where water collects and connectors placed on the ground. The fixing point must hold up to the wind and the socket must stay protected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder a pergola or a gazebo\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe structure carries the line without drilling the roof. Run the string light from one beam to the other, with a fixing point roughly every metre. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-lumineuses\"\u003eDecorative string lights\u003c\/a\u003e find their place there above a table, provided you do not leave a connector in a run-off area.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAlong a facade, a railing or in a tree\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn a light-coloured facade, a discreet cable is less noticeable. On a railing, the line follows the handrail without rubbing. In a tree, avoid tightening around the trunk and prefer wide ties. To widen the choice beyond string lights, browse \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/luminaire\"\u003eall our light fittings\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"lumiere\"\u003eWhich light for an outdoor LED string light?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWarm white gives an evening light, neutral white lights a terrace where you eat more sharply, multicolour is for special occasions. On a bulb string light, the shade depends on the bulb chosen. The colour of the cable matters as much as that of the light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWarm white, neutral white or multicolour?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA warm white, around 2700 to 3000 K, suits a dinner and a relaxation corner. A cooler neutral white helps you move around and distinguish steps. Multicolour is reserved for a party. For an exposed terrace, also check the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led-ip65\"\u003emodels designed for water splashes\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFestoon string light: which bulb base should you choose?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFestoon string lights often use an E27 base, which lets you replace an LED bulb with another shade. Choose bulbs suited to outdoor use and to the power intended by the fitting. Before buying, compare the lines in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led\"\u003ethe selection of LED string lights\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"pose-entretien\"\u003eHow do you install and maintain an outdoor LED string light?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFix the string light above the height of passers-by, taut but not rigid, with hooks or ties that do not pinch the cable. At the end of the season, dust it dry and store it in a dry place, with connectors protected. A waterproof string light is cleaned without direct spray on the connections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAt what height should you hang the string light on a terrace?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow around 2.20 to 2.50 m above the ground to keep the way clear, and a little higher above a table if the light must stay out of your eyes. Under a pergola, follow the structure. Along a railing, lower the line without letting the cable rub.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCleaning and storing a waterproof string light at the end of the season\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnplug before any cleaning. Wipe the light points with a dry cloth, then the cable with a slightly damp cloth, without immersing the connectors. Let it dry before storing. To complete the lighting of a room or an entrance, see \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/luminaire\"\u003ethe Designix light fitting catalogue\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"erreurs\"\u003eWhich mistakes should you avoid with an outdoor LED string light?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon mistakes: leaving a connector in a puddle, choosing an IP44 for frontal exposure to rain, pulling on the cable to fix it, or connecting too many lengths to the same power supply unit. Each is corrected with the product sheet and a little method.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlacing a connector on the ground: raise it along the support, away from splashes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSettling for an IP44 on an exposed facade: move to a rating designed for water jets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFixing by pulling the cable like a rope: prefer flexible ties that leave a slight slack.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConnecting more length than the stated limit: split the line and add a power point.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeaving an outdoor socket unprotected: use a closed, raised box.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDesignix reassurance:\u003c\/strong\u003e secure payment, tracked delivery, returns and Designix customer service. To place the string light among the other lights, browse \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/luminaire\"\u003eall the home light fittings\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"ruban-recoupable\"\u003eHow does a cuttable LED strip work?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA cuttable LED strip has cut marks printed at regular intervals. Cut only on these marks, never between them, then power each section separately or with a suitable connector. Cutting elsewhere breaks the circuit and the section no longer lights up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLocating the cut marks\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe marks often form a small line or a scissors pictogram. They show where the circuit can be separated without damage. Locate them before measuring, because the useful length ends at the last accessible mark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat to do with the connection after cutting\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach section needs a power supply or a connector compatible with the strip. A badly fitted connection lets moisture in: keep it sheltered and check the IP rating of the whole. For areas without a socket, compare the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led-rechargeables\"\u003erechargeable wireless models\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA cut section should be tested before final installation. Browse \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/guirlandes-led\"\u003ethe LED string lights for outdoor use\u003c\/a\u003e to choose the power supply, length and shade that match your terrace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"faq\"\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eCan a waterproof outdoor LED string light stay outside all year round?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt all depends on the IP rating: an IP65 model withstands rain and water jets, it can stay in place. An IP44 is brought in or sheltered in heavy rain. Check the product sheet and avoid a connector resting in water.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eAt what height should you install a string light on a terrace?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eAllow around 2.20 to 2.50 m above the ground, to pass underneath without touching it. Above a table, raise the line to keep the light out of your eyes. Under a pergola, follow the structure and keep a slight slack.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eHow many metres of string light do you need for a terrace?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeasure the actual length, then add the slack between two fixing points. The spacing of the light points changes the result: close together, they give a continuous line. Check the total length and the possible connection on the product sheet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eCan you connect several LED string lights end to end?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt depends on the connectors and the power supply unit. Each model states a maximum connectable length. Add up the lengths and stop at that limit. Beyond it, the line weakens or the unit heats up. The product sheet gives this information.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eDoes a solar string light light enough in the evening?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eA solar string light gives accent lighting, not working lighting: it draws a line, an outline, an atmosphere. Its performance depends on the day's sunshine and the stated reserve. In winter, plan a back-up solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"CollectionPage\",\"name\":\"Waterproof outdoor LED string lights: the buying guide\",\"description\":\"Waterproof outdoor LED string lights: which IP rating, which length and which installation for terrace, balcony or garden? 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An IP44 is brought in or sheltered in heavy rain. Always check the product sheet and avoid a connector resting in water.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Waterproof outdoor LED string lights: at what height should you install them?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Above the height of passers-by, so that it is not touched when walking, and high enough for the light not to be in your eyes. Under a pergola, follow the structure. Along a railing, lower the line without letting the cable rub.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How many metres of string light do you need for a terrace?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Measure the actual length to cover, then add the slack between two fixing points. The spacing of the light points changes the result: close together, they give a continuous line. Finally check the total length available and the possible connection.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does a cuttable LED strip work?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Cut marks are printed on the strip at regular intervals. Cut only on these marks, then power each section again with a suitable connector. Cutting between two marks breaks the circuit and the section no longer lights up.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can you connect several LED string lights end to end?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"It depends on the connectors and the power supply unit: each model states a maximum connectable length. Add up the lengths and stop at that limit. Beyond it, the line weakens or the unit heats up. 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