How Long Do Fairy Lights Last?

When the holiday season approaches, many people pull out their decorative lights and wonder if they need to buy new ones each year. So, how long do fairy lights last?

Modern LED fairy lights typically last between 35,000 to 50,000 hours or about 4-6 years of continuous use, while traditional incandescent fairy lights last around 1,000 to 3,000 hours.

However, this is just a general estimate, and the actual lifespan of your fairy lights can vary significantly depending on several important factors like bulb type, usage patterns, and storage conditions. Understanding these factors can help you maximize the lifespan of your lights and make smarter purchasing decisions.

What Factors Affect The Lifespan Of Fairy Lights?

The type of bulb is the most significant factor in determining how long your fairy lights will last. LED lights are far more durable and energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, which is why they last significantly longer. LEDs are also more resistant to breakage and generate less heat, reducing the risk of burning out.

How you use your fairy lights also plays a crucial role in their longevity. Outdoor lights exposed to weather elements typically have shorter lifespans than indoor lights. Additionally, frequently turning lights on and off can reduce their lifespan, as can leaving them on for extended periods.

How Should You Store Fairy Lights To Make Them Last Longer?

Proper storage is essential for maintaining fairy lights between uses. Always clean the lights before storage, removing any dust or debris that could cause corrosion. Wrap the strings carefully around a piece of cardboard or a storage reel to prevent tangling and wire damage.

Store lights in a cool, dry place in a sealed container to protect them from moisture and pests. Avoid storing them in areas with extreme temperatures, such as uninsulated attics or garages, as temperature fluctuations can damage both the bulbs and wiring.

Quick fact: According to energystar.gov, fairy lights that have earned an ENERGY STAR rating use — on average — 75% less energy than conventional incandescent lights strings and come with a manufacturer-back warranty of at least three years.

How Can You Tell When It's Time To Replace Your Fairy Lights?

The most obvious sign that fairy lights need replacement is when multiple bulbs stop working or begin flickering. While individual bulbs can often be replaced, extensive outages usually indicate degradation of the entire string.

Check the wiring regularly for signs of wear, fraying, or exposed wire. If you notice any of these issues, or if the lights make buzzing sounds when plugged in, it's time to replace them for safety reasons. For outdoor lights, also look for UV damage such as cracking or brittleness in the wire coating.

What's The Difference Between Indoor And Outdoor Fairy Lights?

Indoor and outdoor fairy lights are constructed differently to account for their intended use. Outdoor lights have special waterproof seals, thicker insulation, and more durable materials to withstand weather conditions. These protective features often make them last longer than indoor varieties when used as intended.

However, using indoor lights outside can be dangerous and will significantly reduce their lifespan. Indoor lights aren't designed to handle moisture, temperature changes, or UV exposure, which can lead to rapid deterioration and potential safety hazards. Always check the rating on your lights' packaging to ensure proper usage.

Long Lasting Fairy Lights

Looking for high-quality fairy lights that are likely to last in that 35,000 - 50,000 hour range? Check out some top-rated fairy light products below:

Minetom Fairy Lights Plug in

Minetom Curtain Lights

View more fairy lights here.

How Can You Extend The Life Of Your Fairy Lights?

Several simple maintenance practices can help maximize the lifespan of your fairy lights. Using a timer to ensure lights aren't left on unnecessarily can prevent overheating and reduce wear. When hanging lights, avoid creating sharp bends or putting stress on the wires, as this can damage the internal connections.

Regular inspection and maintenance also help extend longevity. Check for loose bulbs and tighten them before use, as loose connections can cause other bulbs in the string to work harder and burn out faster. If using outdoor lights, ensure they're properly secured to prevent wind damage and check weatherproofing seals before each season.

For LED lights specifically, using a compatible dimmer switch can help reduce power consumption and heat generation, potentially extending their lifespan even further. However, be sure to check that your lights are dimmer-compatible before using this feature.

Taking Action: Make Your Lights Last

When you're ready to put up your fairy lights this season, take a few minutes to check your existing lights' rating (indoor vs. outdoor) and establish a proper storage system if you don't already have one. A small investment in storage supplies and fifteen minutes of organization can extend the life of your lights by years and save you money in the long run.

FAQs

Can I leave fairy lights on all night?

It depends on the type. LED fairy lights are safe to leave on overnight because they generate little heat. However, incandescent fairy lights can overheat, increasing the fire risk.

What is the best way to fix broken fairy lights?

If an entire string is out, check the fuse inside the plug (most fairy lights have a replaceable fuse). If individual bulbs are out, look for a faulty bulb and replace it if possible.

What is the difference between string lights and fairy lights?

Fairy lights are a type of string lights that are typically smaller, more delicate, and often have thin, flexible wiring. String lights is a broader term that includes larger bulb designs, such as Christmas lights and globe string lights. Fairy lights are commonly used for decorative indoor settings, while string lights can be used for both indoor and outdoor purposes.

How long do fairy lights last on a battery?

Battery-powered fairy lights typically last 10 to 48 hours per set of batteries, depending on the battery type (AA, AAA, or coin cell) and light mode (steady vs. flashing). LED fairy lights consume less power and can last longer, while incandescent fairy lights drain batteries more quickly.

Where not to put fairy lights?

Avoid placing fairy lights in high-moisture areas (unless waterproof-rated), near flammable materials, or inside enclosed, heat-trapping spaces like under blankets or cushions. Also, do not place indoor-rated fairy lights outdoors, as they are not designed to withstand weather conditions.

Why are fairy lights called fairy lights?

Fairy lights are named after their tiny, twinkling appearance, resembling the glow of fairy dust or fireflies. The term originated from theatrical productions in the late 19th century, where small lights were used to create a magical, fairy-like effect on stage.