Guide: How much power does a string of lights draw?

But how much power does a string of lights actually consume? In our compiled guide on this page, we dive into that very question. We give you insight into the power consumption of string lights and give you good advice on savings so that you can use your string lights with a clear conscience. 

Power consumption depends on the string light you have

The power consumption of string lights varies depending on the type of string light you choose. Traditional incandescent bulbs, which were once standard, use significantly more power than modern alternatives. LED lights, on the other hand, are known for their energy efficiency and longevity, making them a popular choice for many. There are also solar-powered light chains that harness the sun's energy and thus reduce direct power consumption.

For indoor use, you may come across string lights with small halogen lights, which also use more energy than LEDs. The choice of string lights not only affects the atmosphere and aesthetics of your home or garden, but also the annual electricity bill. Therefore, it is important to consider both the type of string light and the associated power consumption when making your choice.

The difference between indoor and outdoor string lights

The difference in power consumption between indoor and outdoor string lights can be significant. Outdoor string lights are often designed to withstand weather conditions and therefore may require more energy, especially if they are larger or have more lights. Indoor LED string lights typically require less energy, as they are designed for a more controlled environment and are often finer and smaller. In addition, energy consumption can vary depending on whether the light chains use LED lights or traditional incandescent bulbs, where LED is much more energy efficient.

Choose LED light strings with a clear conscience

Are you worried about the higher electricity prices and are thinking about not hanging up LED string lights for Christmas? There's no reason not to. Even in a time of rising electricity prices, you can still create a cozy Christmas atmosphere without it having to cost you dearly on the electricity bill. Choosing an LED string light can be your savior.

These modern LED string lights are an excellent replacement for traditional LED string lights, as they are significantly more energy efficient. Not only are LED string lights better for the environment, but they also ensure that you can enjoy Christmas lights both indoors and outdoors without worrying about high costs.

The difference is significant, especially if you decorate with a lot of LED string lights. Some LED string lights are so energy-efficient that they only use 1 watt, which in practice means minimal consumption.

How much power does a string light use?

If you want to calculate the specific power consumption of your string lights, you can use a simple calculation. Imagine that you have a string of lights that consumes 7.4 watts and is lit 8 hours a day throughout the month of December. To convert watts to kilowatt hours (kWh), which is the unit in which the electricity bill is measured, we divide the wattage by 1,000. Then we multiply by the number of hours the string lights are lit daily and the number of days it is on to get the total power consumption for the whole of December.

Keep in mind that prices per kWh can vary from supplier to supplier and depending on the contract you have. If you want to know your exact kWh price, you need to contact your supplier.

If your electricity contract includes variable hourly rates, there is an opportunity to save money by using electricity when the price is lowest. This is usually when demand is low. Electricity prices are constantly changing, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on how prices are developing. There are both websites and apps for this. This way you know what times of the day it is cheapest to use electricity.  

In the illustration below, we have tried to visualize the previously mentioned calculation with the general electricity price for 18. October 2024 in Denmark, as shown in the example. (Changes in the price of electricity will occur and therefore this is a snapshot in our example.)

That's how little it costs to light a string of lights from Biltema

The price is based on DKK 2.09 per kWh. (18. October 2024):

• Type: LED light chain with 100 LED bulbs
• Consumption per hour: 7.4 watts = 0.0074 kWh per hour
• Consumption at 8 hours: 0.0074 kW x 8 hours = 0.0592 kWh
• Price for 8 hours of use: DKK 2.09 x 0.0592 kWh = DKK 0.123.

For an LED light chain with 100 bulbs that is lit 8 hours a day, it costs: DKK 0.86 per week

Good advice for savings

Creating a cozy atmosphere in your home or garden with string lights can be both charming and energy consuming. To make sure that coziness doesn't lead to surprisingly high electricity bills, there are several good tips for achieving savings.

One effective method is to use a timer. By connecting your string lights to an automatic on/off function, you can control exactly when they turn on and off, so they don't draw unnecessary power around the clock. This is especially handy during the dark winter, when the LED string lights can turn on automatically early in the evening and turn off again late in the evening or at night. If you're going to use your outdoor Christmas decoration timer in December, you should first check if your timer is approved for outdoor use.

Another important piece of advice is to pay attention to the wattage when buying string lights. Low-power LED string lights consume less energy, which is both good for the environment and your wallet. LED lights are often an energy-efficient choice, as they use a fraction of the energy compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and at the same time have a longer lifespan.

In addition, you can consider investing in solar-powered LED string lights. These are particularly suitable for outdoor use, as they are charged during the day and lit up in the evening without using household electricity. By following these tips, you can enjoy the brilliant decorations without worrying about your electricity bill.

Buy your LED string lights at Biltema

At Biltema, we have an extensive selection of light LED string lights for indoor and outdoor use that can create a cosy and breathtaking atmosphere in any home. Indoor string lights come in a variety of sizes and shades, including warm white and cool white, which can create the right Christmas or festive atmosphere for a special event.

Outdoor LED string lights are designed to withstand the challenges of the weather and provide a welcoming glow to gardens, patios and balconies. They can be hung along fences, twisted around the porch railing, or hung in the gutter around the house. In the range of outdoor LED string lights, Biltema also offers, for example, beautiful icicle LED string lights for the house, or candle nets that are perfect for decorating bushes and trees. Whatever the occasion, Biltema's light chains ensure that you can create the perfect atmosphere both indoors and outdoors.

Need more lighting?

If you are also looking for other new lighting for your home, Biltema has much more than just light strings. For indoor use, Biltema has a number of modern Recessed spotlights which are perfect for creating focused lighting in any room. Or how about LED Strips, which are known for their flexibility and ability to add atmospheric lighting under kitchen cabinets, along stairs or behind TV screens. And with Fluorescent luminaires For offices, institutions or kitchens, you can use fluorescent lamp to ensure efficient lighting that lasts a long time.

For those who want to light up their outdoor areas, Biltema has a good selection of Outdoor Lights and Solar lamps. These products are designed to withstand the effects of the weather and provide an effective solution for illuminating gardens, pathways, driveways, and other outdoor areas. The solar lights are particularly notable for their ease of installation and sustainable energy source, making them a popular choice for eco-conscious consumers. Biltema's range of lighting combines quality, functionality and style, making it easy to find the perfect lighting solution for every need.