Finding perfect holiday lights becomes an art

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - 'Tis the season for holiday decorations.

"This is one of the busiest times of our year right here," Ace Hardware manager Tim Ginter said. "On Black Friday people were waiting at the door to come in. We sold a lot of Christmas stuff Saturday and on Friday."

Ginter said one of the most popular holiday decorations, in addition to the nearly 300 real Christmas trees they'll sell this holiday season, holiday lights are at the top of the list.

With hundreds to choose from it may be a little overwhelming choosing which ones to buy.

"All the lights work indoor or outdoor," Ginter said. "Right now, everyone's turning toward the LED lights. They use less energy and the colors come out a lot nicer."

Ginter said LED lights last longer than incandescent lights too.

"They're more expensive but they last a lot longer. They don't burn like incandescent lights do," Ginter said.  "They should last for several years."

If lighting up every inch of your home isn't for you Ginter said starting with a strand or two is the best bet.  

"You can start with a 40-foot strand if you wanted to, or just go with like two 20-foot ones. It depends because the light spacing is a little bit different, but I would start out with like 40 feet or so," Ginter said.

But how do you make your lights last for more than one holiday season? Ginter said it's all in how you store them.

"You can try and roll them up on a reel. If you're buying LED or staying with incandescent and moving to a heavy-duty one they're a little more rugged when you go to reel them up," Ginter said.

Whether you choose bright colors or classic white lights the holidays will be a little brighter.