C7 and C9 LED Christmas lights are among the most favored types of holiday lighting. Traditionally, these larger bulbs demanded substantial power, leading to high energy bills and installation challenges when electrical infrastructure was limited. Today, with the advent of energy-efficient LEDs, C7 and C9 bulbs have surged in popularity. Almost half the orders on our platform involve some form of C7 or C9 lights.
Selecting the ideal C7 or C9 light set can be somewhat perplexing. We often guide customers through the two principal C7/C9 lighting choices. The first and more economical choice is the standard LED stringer light sets. The second and pricier choice involves using empty socket light lines with C7 and C9 retrofit replacement LED bulbs. Let's explore each option.
C7 and C9 LED Stringer Sets – C7 or C9 LED stringer sets are a favored option for homeowners looking for an inexpensive LED light set for the perimeter of their yard or home. These are also commonly used for illuminating larger trees. The primary advantage of the LED stringer set is its affordability and ease of use. The downside is that it comes in a fixed length that cannot be cut or customized to the specific area you wish to light. Any excess at the end of a run needs to be hidden or incorporated into the design. Without the flexibility to custom cut the light line, achieving a polished, professional look can be challenging.
C7 and C9 Empty Socket Light Line with LED Retrofit Bulbs – Empty socket light lines are the preferred choice for professional holiday light installers due to their installation flexibility. The cord usually comes in 500′ or 1,000′ rolls, although we also provide it by the foot for those requiring less than a full roll. While the cord is relatively affordable, the bulbs tend to be more expensive. Nevertheless, the brightness and quality of the LED bulbs far surpass those of a stringer light set. Another significant advantage is the ability to trim the cord to any desired length, allowing for neat, professional-looking lines without the hassle of concealing extra bulbs and sockets.
There is a common misconception that using empty socket light lines is exclusive to professional installers and is too complex for the average person. In reality, it's quite simple, and anyone who has previously installed their own Christmas lights can handle this type of cord without issue. All it takes is choosing the cord type, selecting the bulbs, and obtaining a few male and female plugs. Check the latter part of this blog for links to the essential components needed for setting up a professional light line.
4 Steps to Installing Light Line Like the Pros
Helpful Links:
Empty Socket Light Line
C7 and C9 LED Bulbs
Male and Female Plugs
Attachment Clips
Installing a Slide On Plug
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