How to Replace a Bulb on LED Christmas Lights

LED Christmas lights have become more and more popular with holiday decorators due to their energy efficiency and their brighter, more focused luminescence in comparison with traditional incandescent bulbs. The only winning trait of incandescent bulbs is their lower price, but as time goes on, the cost of LEDs will likely fall as well.

Just like incandescent Christmas lights, your string of LEDs can fail because of one bulb. It's important to know how to replace these bulbs and fuses and this article will show you how.

Replacing a Single Bulb

LED Christmas lights, like the classic incandescent ones we're used to, can fail one light at a time or an entire string.

Step 1 - Locate the Bulb

Before fixing a bulb, you need to identify it. Plug in your string of lights and turn them on. Look closely at the lights for bulbs that are not as bright as the others or ones that are out. Place a twist tie or similar visual marker around the bulbs to replace so that you can find them when the string is unplugged.

Step 2 - Remove the Bulb

Make sure the lights are both off and unplugged. Then, go to each bulb that you wish to replace, one at a time, and firmly grip the bulb. Gently remove it from the socket by pulling it away from the strand of lights.

Be careful to not crush the bulb or twist the socket. The bulb should come away easily with a careful pull. Do not twist or squeeze the light if it won't separate.

Step 3 - Replace the Bulb

Once all the bulbs are out, you can now go to each empty socket and swap in your new bulb. When all the new bulbs are inserted, plug in the string of lights and verify that all of the new lights are working correctly. You can now remove the twist ties.

Replacing a Fuse

When the strings of lights does not work, then there is a problem with the fuse. Fixing this problem on LED Christmas lights differs from fixing it on incandescent lights.

Step 1 - Access the Fuse Box

Find the LED Christmas light fuse box. It will be on the plug of the lights on one of the sides. You will be able to identify it by the small door. Use an appropriate screwdriver to pry the door open.

Step 2 - Remove the Fuse

LED Christmas lights may use less power than regular lights, but they also burn brighter. This makes the lights more susceptible to power spikes. With the door to the fuse box open, you will be able to see the fuse. Carefully pull it out and inspect the casing. Look for melted or burnt plastic, a fracture on the case, or other signs of extreme heat. If the casing is melted or damaged, do not use the lights.

Step 3 - Install New Fuse

Carefully insert the new fuse inside the casing until you hear a snap. Be careful as fuses are made of glass. Once the fuse is inserted you can shut the door. Plug the lights in and test the LED Christmas lights. If there is no light, check the fuse to ensure it is making constant contact.