Do-It-Yourself Project: Rope Lighting
Rope lighting is an easy, inexpensive way to accent your cabinets, stairways and outdoor decks – and it uses only a tiny amount of electricity.
Before you start
Decide where you want to install the lights and measure how much you’ll need – rope lighting is packaged in lengths up to 30 feet. Most manufacturers offer connectors that allow you to join up to five 30-foot sections.
Step 1
Lay out the rope lighting where you want it to go, and determine where you’ll plug it in. Keep the lights unplugged until they’re fully installed.
Step 2
If you need to use connectors, slide the collars over the ends of the ropes you want to attach together. Fully insert the pointed end of the pin pieces into the end of the ropes by matching it the wire holes.
Firmly secure the split end of the connector fittings over the pin pieces. Screw the collars onto the split ends of the connector fittings. Then secure the end cap on the opposite end of the rope.
Step 3
Attach the mounting clips with your drill and the screws provided with your lighting kit. The clips should be spaced every three or four inches to prevent the light rope from drooping.
Some brands of rope lighting have a special strip of plastic designed to staple through instead of separate mounting clips.
Step 4
Install the rope lighting by gently pressing it into the mounting clips.
Step 5
Once the lights are secured in place, plug them in and that’s it!
If the outlet is in an unobtrusive area, you can add a timer, motion sensor or photocell to turn your rope lighting on and off automatically.
Please note: These "do-it-yourself" guidelines are provided as an overview, and should not be used as the sole instructions for a home improvement project. Always read and follow the manufacturer's directions for the products you choose. Alliant Energy cannot be held responsible for injuries or damages resulting from these instructions.
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