Uploaded December 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Another seasonal look at the classic 120/240V strings of LED lights that have zero safety standards.
These strings of lights have the following issues:-
Ultra thin single insulated wire.
No proper strain relief.
A controller with a pop-off cover that exposes live connections.
Under-rated resistors that can be overloaded if the static mode is selected.
Often described as suitable for outdoor use, but they absolutely are NOT!
The best way to describe these mains voltage strings of lights is as dangerous and disposable.
They pose a significant shock risk, especially to kids and pets that might play with them.
And the worst thing is that they are often sold at a similar price to the completely safe low voltage ones from local supermarkets like ASDA and Walmart.
No link to buy these sets. Instead look for USB, battery or other low voltage sets.
And keep in mind that most strings with the heatshrink sleeves and standard LEDs will fail quickly if used in a wet outdoor environment, as the moisture wicks in and causes corrosion.
If you enjoy my videos and would like to support me with a dollar or two for coffee, cookies and gadgets to take apart, you can do so by supporting me on Patreon. I release videos without adverts for critique and feedback on Patreon as soon as they have been made. I also release Patreon-only backstage videos when I'm working on shows.
patreon.com/bigclive
Alternatively, for a single coffee contribution you can use PayPal:-
paypal.com/paypalme/bigclive
#ElectronicsCreators
Another seasonal look at the classic 120/240V strings of LED lights that have zero safety standards.
These strings of lights have the following issues:-
Ultra thin single insulated wire.
No proper strain relief.
A controller with a pop-off cover that exposes live connections.
Under-rated resistors that can be overloaded if the static mode is selected.
Often described as suitable for outdoor use, but they absolutely are NOT!
The best way to describe these mains voltage strings of lights is as dangerous and disposable.
They pose a significant shock risk, especially to kids and pets that might play with them.
And the worst thing is that they are often sold at a similar price to the completely safe low voltage ones from local supermarkets like ASDA and Walmart.
No link to buy these sets. Instead look for USB, battery or other low voltage sets.
And keep in mind that most strings with the heatshrink sleeves and standard LEDs will fail quickly if used in a wet outdoor environment, as the moisture wicks in and causes corrosion.
If you enjoy my videos and would like to support me with a dollar or two for coffee, cookies and gadgets to take apart, you can do so by supporting me on Patreon. I release videos without adverts for critique and feedback on Patreon as soon as they have been made. I also release Patreon-only backstage videos when I'm working on shows.
patreon.com/bigclive
Alternatively, for a single coffee contribution you can use PayPal:-
paypal.com/paypalme/bigclive
#ElectronicsCreators
