With the holiday season fast approaching, many people are starting to put up Christmas lights and decorations. Stringing up lights can be a tedious and time-consuming task, especially when it comes to checking each bulb to find any that have burned out. This often leads to the question – is there a machine that can check Christmas lights and identify any bulbs that need to be replaced? The short answer is yes, there are a few different machines on the market that are designed specifically for testing Christmas lights.
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Why Use a Christmas Light Tester?
Checking Christmas lights by hand can be frustrating and ineffective. It’s easy to miss bulbs that are out, leading to strands with dark patches or areas. Testing each bulb individually also takes a lot of time and effort. A light tester automates the process, quickly detecting any bulbs that are burnt out or not working properly. This saves time and ensures all the lights are in good working order before putting them up. The machines are easy to use – just plug in the light strand and it will check each bulb, identifying any that need to be replaced.
Types of Christmas Light Testing Machines
There are a few different types of Christmas light testers available:
Plug-In Light Testers
These are likely the most common and affordable option. Plug-in light testers directly analyze strands of lights. You plug the light strand into the tester, and then plug the tester into an outlet. It sends a small electric current through the lights, detecting any issues. These testers have one or more light sockets to plug strands into. Higher-end versions often have a digital display or speaker to identify exactly which bulb is burnt out.
Handheld Light Testers
As the name suggests, handheld light testers are portable devices that run on batteries. You hold the tester up to each bulb individually to detect issues. Handheld testers are convenient for checking lights that are already hung up. However, they take more time than a plug-in tester for analyzing full strands. The lights do not need to be plugged in or illuminated to use a handheld tester.
Light Controller Test Functions
Many Christmas light controllers now have a testing function built into them. These controllers connect between your light strands and the outlet. Their technology can analyze attached lights when put into a testing mode. The controller’s display will indicate any problem bulbs. This allows checking lights without a separate testing device.
Advantages of Using a Light Tester
Here are some of the biggest benefits of using a Christmas light testing machine:
- Saves time – Check strands in seconds instead of manually inspecting each bulb.
- Finds all burnt out bulbs – Easy to miss some when checking by hand.
- Prevents issues – Identify and replace bad bulbs before hanging lights.
- Reduces frustration – No more guessing which bulbs are out.
- Allows testing while hanging – Handheld models can check already installed lights.
- Affordable prices – Many reliable testers cost under $20.
What to Look for When Buying
Here are key factors to consider when selecting a Christmas light tester:
- Number of outlets – More outlets allow simultaneously testing multiple strands.
- Digital display – Displays exactly which bulb needs replacement for easy repair.
- Fault indicator – Flashes or sounds alarm at faulty bulbs.
- Cord length – Long cord provides testing convenience.
- Durability – Withstands regular use year after year.
- Portability – For handheld testers, compact size for easy storage.
Top Christmas Light Testers
Based on features, performance, and customer reviews, here are 5 of the top Christmas light testing machines:
| Product | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Light Keeper Pro | Easy-to-read digital display, tests up to 5 strands at once |
| XCM CP-3083 | Handheld model great for hanging lights, detects issues through insulation |
| Relassy Plug-In Tester | Streams audio of bulb locations, testing status display |
| MINIware Light Checker | Compact and portable, in-line controller with tester |
| Tacklife Light Tester | Affordable price under $15, scans two strands simultaneously |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Christmas light testers work?
Plug-in testers send a low voltage current through the lights to detect bulb issues. Handheld testers electronically analyze bulbs without power. Controllers use automated technology to check connected lights.
Can you use a light tester on LED lights?
Yes, most Christmas light testers work on both incandescent and LED bulb strands. Always check product details to confirm LED compatibility.
Where can I buy a Christmas light tester?
Light testers are widely available at big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Many are also sold on Amazon. Prices typically range from $10 to $50.
The Bottom Line
Checking Christmas lights by hand is tedious and error-prone. Using an automated light tester saves significant time and ensures all bulbs are in good working order. These convenient gadgets plug-in or handheld models that detect bulb issues in seconds. Consider factors like number of outlets, digital displays and portability when choosing a tester. Investing in this inexpensive tool makes prepping your holiday lights much easier.