For perimeter lighting, different light sets are utilized. C7 and C9 bulbs dominate this category. Many believe that larger bulbs offer a better aesthetic, and generally, this holds true for perimeter lighting.
Then there's the C6 LED light set, often overlooked. It's usually deemed too large for foliage lighting and too small for boundary lighting. It appears to lack a clear niche. The C6 has recognized a harsh reality; when it comes to LED Christmas lights, size often seems crucial. But is it really? Let's investigate this underappreciated contender that has been missing the spotlight.
Since we started transitioning to LED Christmas lights for our setups back in 2004, we have always admired C6 light sets for artificial Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands. They enhance the foliage of all types of greenery beautifully. However, only recently did we begin employing them for exterior foliage decorations, such as trunk wraps, hedge lighting, and canopy illumination. The resulting ambiance is quite striking. While it may not possess the sharp brightness of a Conical, it provides a larger illuminated surface and looks impressive from every angle.
C6 LED Christmas lights utilized for trunk wraps at the Gaylord Texan. (Left) Close-up of C6 LED Christmas lights wrapped around a tree trunk. (Right)
C6s for Perimeter Lighting?
Could C6 LED Christmas lights be used for perimeter lighting? Absolutely, it's an excellent choice. Admittedly, the bulbs are smaller than the more commonly used C9 lights for building perimeter applications, but with the correct clip, the closer spacing on a C6 stringer set can create very neat, clean lines along the edge of a home or business. However, selecting the right clip is crucial; otherwise, the bulbs may not stay straight, massively diminishing the overall impact of the project. Let's examine a few clip options for C6 LEDs.
C6 LED lights used with LiteClip Strips along the perimeter of a home.
Installing C6 Stringer Sets with LiteClips Strips
Professional installers commonly use LiteClip Strips to streamline installations season after season. The strip is permanently affixed to the surface, allowing you to snap on the appropriate clip for your lights. In the image above, clips made for stringer light sets are used, but there are also clips available for C7 and C9 lights. Once the strips are up, you'll have various options for future lighting projects.
C6 LED Christmas light sets installed using LED All In One Clips. A convenient option for asphalt shingle roofs.
Using All In One Clips for C6 Stringer Set Installation
All In One Clips are an excellent option for securely holding C6 LED Christmas lights. These clips work effectively on standard asphalt shingles and gutters. To maintain a clean, straight look, it's essential to use one clip per bulb. However, a cautionary note: while these clips are effective, the sets sometimes slip out of the designated cutaway. A small drop of superglue can help keep the light set secured in the clip. Use a minimal amount to ensure you can still detach the clip if needed in the future.
Alternative Clip Options
There are other clips suitable for stringer sets, but they are designed to hook onto the cord rather than the socket. Consequently, they won't achieve the straight perimeter lines attainable with the two mentioned clips. If a tidily strung perimeter light set isn't a necessity, and misaligned bulbs aren't a concern, you can use an Icicle Light Clip or an S Style Gutter Hook.
Despite being underrated for years, the versatile C6 is finding its place in the Christmas lighting arena. More individuals are discovering this small, modest bulb has much to offer. Whether it's for wrapping, dispersing through tree and bush foliage, or outlining a building, the C6 offers excellent flexibility and visual appeal. Also, consider using them on indoor Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands.
Interested in trying C6 LED Christmas lights? Explore our range of high-quality LED sets: C6 LED Christmas Lights
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