FAQ
FAQ & HELP CENTER
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Get quick answers about our products, ordering, shipping, returns, installation, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Click a tab below to explore common questions. Can’t find what you need? We’re here to help!
- Product Questions
- Ordering & Payments
- Shipping & Delivery
- Returns & Warranty
- Installation & Technical
Product Questions
Bulbs, sockets, cords, compatibility and choosing the right components.
What bulb fits my string light cord?
Start with the socket/base size of your cord. PartyLights' three common sizes are C7/E12 (candelabra), C9/E17 (intermediate), and Medium/E26. The bulb base must match the socket size; bulb shape and globe size can then vary within that compatible base. Not sure what you have? Use our Bulb & Socket Guide to compare sizes.
What's the difference between C7, C9, and Medium?
These names refer to the socket and bulb-base size, not the size of the glass or plastic bulb itself. E12 is the smaller candelabra base commonly used with C7 cords, E17 is the intermediate base commonly used with C9 cords, and E26 is the standard medium household-size base.
What's the difference between G30, G40, and G50 bulbs?
The "G" means globe, while the number indicates the approximate diameter of the globe. G30 is about 1.25", G40 about 1.5", and G50 about 2". Globe size and base size are different specifications, so always make sure the bulb's base matches your string light socket.
Can I use LED bulbs in my existing string lights?
Often, yes - as long as the bulb base matches the socket and the bulb is appropriate for the cord and application. Always check the specifications for both the cord and bulb before combining components.
Are your string lights and bulbs rated for outdoor use?
Many PartyLights string lights and bulbs are designed for outdoor use, but ratings and installation requirements vary by product. Check the individual product specifications to make sure the cord and bulbs are appropriate for your location and intended use.
Are your bulbs dimmable?
It depends on the bulb. Incandescent bulbs are generally dimmable, while LED bulbs must specifically be listed as dimmable and should be paired with a compatible LED dimmer. Check the product specifications before selecting a dimmer.
Can I mix different bulb styles on the same cord?
In many cases, yes, provided the bulbs have the correct base for the cord and the total electrical load remains within the cord's specifications. Always verify bulb compatibility and maximum-load requirements first.
How many string light sets can I connect together?
There isn't one maximum for every PartyLights string light set. It depends on the specific cord or set, bulb wattage and electrical rating, and some products are not designed for end-to-end connection. Check the product page for Maximum Run or connection specifications before connecting multiple sets.
Not sure which bulb you need?
See our complete Bulb & Socket Guide with comparisons and explanations.
Ordering & Payments
Placing an order, payment options, discounts and more.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover, as well as PayPal.
Flexible payment options are also available through Affirm, PayPal Pay Later and Klarna.
Can I use a discount code or promo code?
Yes. Enter your promo code during checkout. Some promotions may have exclusions and may not be combined with other offers.
Do you offer financing or pay-over-time options?
Yes. Affirm, PayPal Pay Later and Klarna are available for eligible purchases. Available options are shown during checkout, with eligibility and terms determined by the payment provider.
Can I change or cancel my order after it's placed?
Contact us as soon as possible. Orders move into processing quickly, so we'll do our best to help, but changes or cancellations cannot be guaranteed once processing has begun.
Do you charge sales tax?
PartyLights currently collects sales tax on orders shipped to Texas addresses.
Can I place an order over the phone?
Yes. Our Customer Service team can assist you with placing an order by phone during customer service hours.
Do you offer quotes for businesses, government agencies, or large projects?
Yes. PartyLights works with businesses, municipalities, hospitality properties and other organizations and can assist with product selection, quotes and larger-volume orders.
Will I receive an order confirmation?
Yes. An order confirmation is sent to the email address provided at checkout after your order is successfully placed.
Shipping & Delivery
Shipping times, delivery estimates, tracking and more.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Delivery timing depends on the shipping option you choose and your location. With Fast Processing, your order ships out in 1-3 business days and transit time varies by destination. Regular shipping is typically delivered in 3-7 business days. Free No-Rush Shipping is designed for customers who can plan ahead and delivers in up to 10 business days. Delivery dates are estimates rather than guarantees, so if you are working toward an event or installation deadline, contact us before ordering, and we can help you choose the best option.
How does Free No-Rush Shipping work?
Orders of $100 or more qualify for Free No-Rush Shipping. This option allows PartyLights to optimize fulfillment for savings while still delivering your order within 10 business days. Choose No-Rush when your project timeline is flexible and you would rather save on shipping. The 10-business-day window refers to delivery to you - not the date the order leaves the warehouse.
When will my order ship?
If you select a standard shipping method, your order is expected to be processed and shipped out in 1-3 business days. Free No-Rush Shipping uses flexible fulfillment timing so that your order can be delivered within the No-Rush window of up to 10 business days. Processing can vary by product and warehouse location. APO and PO Box orders may require an additional 1-2 business days of delivery time.
How do I track my order?
We send tracking information as each shipment leaves the warehouse. Because an order may be fulfilled from more than one warehouse, you may receive multiple tracking numbers at different times. If you have received one tracking number but not all of your items, check for additional shipment notifications before contacting us.
Why did I receive only part of my order?
PartyLights products may ship from multiple warehouse locations, so a single order can arrive in two or more packages on different days. This does not necessarily mean anything is missing. Tracking is provided for each shipment as it leaves the warehouse. Review your shipment emails and tracking numbers to see whether the remaining items are still in transit.
Can I get my order faster if I have a deadline?
If you have a firm event, installation or project date, choose Fast Processing rather than Free No-Rush Shipping and review the available shipping choices at checkout. Fast Processing means the order ships out in 1-3 business days; delivery timing after shipment depends on your location and carrier service. Because delivery dates are estimates and not guarantees, contact PartyLights before ordering when timing is critical so we can help you evaluate the best option.
Do you ship to PO Boxes or APO addresses?
Yes. APO and PO Box orders ship by USPS Priority Mail or Ground Advantage. Please allow an additional 1-2 business days for processing. Transit time will depend on the destination and carrier service.
Do you ship to Canada?
Yes. Canadian orders ship by UPS or FedEx for quicker transit, better package tracking and faster customs clearance. Please allow additional transit time for customs. PartyLights maintains a Non-Resident Importer account to help packages clear customs more efficiently, and PartyLights pays the applicable duties and taxes.
Returns & Warranty
Returns, exchanges, damaged items, and product warranties.
What is your return policy?
PartyLights offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. A return request must be received within 30 days of receiving the items. Returned merchandise must be unused and include all original packaging; pre-packaged items must be unopened. Original shipping charges are nonrefundable. Final sale items and custom-cut cord orders are nonreturnable and nonrefundable.
How do I start a return?
First request a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. You can request an RMA through your PartyLights account by opening the order and selecting "Return items?", by emailing customerservice@partylights.com, or by calling 713-861-3400. Once your RMA is issued, return the merchandise to PartyLights.com, ATTN: RETURNS, 8990 Park West Dr., Unit B2, Houston, TX 77063. Clearly mark the RMA number on the package.
Are return shipping costs refundable?
For non-defective returns, return shipping is the customer's responsibility. If you request a PartyLights return label, the cost of that label will be deducted from your refund. Original shipping charges are also nonrefundable. If an item arrived damaged or defective, contact Customer Service before returning it so we can provide the appropriate instructions.
What items cannot be returned?
Final sale items cannot be returned. Custom-cut cord orders are also nonreturnable and nonrefundable. Returned merchandise must be unused and in its original packaging, and pre-packaged items must be unopened. If returned merchandise appears to have been used, a refund will not be issued.
What if my order arrives damaged or defective?
Contact PartyLights within 14 days of receiving the order if any item arrives damaged or is not working. We may ask for photos of the product and/or the outside packaging. Email customerservice@partylights.com or call 713-861-3400 so our team can review the issue and provide instructions for replacement pieces or the appropriate next step.
How long will it take to receive my refund?
After PartyLights.com receives your returned merchandise, please allow up to 30 days for the refund to be processed. Refund eligibility is subject to the return requirements and exceptions in our Returns Policy.
Is there a restocking fee?
Returns received without an RMA or outside the 30-day return window are subject to a 30% restocking fee. Non-defective returns on larger orders of $2,500 or more are also subject to a 30% restocking fee. Refused deliveries are subject to deduction of the original and return shipping costs plus a 30% restocking fee.
What warranty comes with my lights?
Warranty coverage varies by product. All of our LED bulbs carry a one-year warranty. Most of the cords have a 90-day warranty. Please check the Warranty Information section on the individual product page for the exact warranty that applies to your item. For example, some commercial string light products carry separate warranty periods for cords and bulbs, while other products may have a different limited warranty. If you are unsure what applies to your product, contact Customer Service with the product or order information, and we will help you identify the applicable coverage.
Installation & Technical
Setup, compatability, power, troubleshooting and more.
How do I install string lights?
Start by planning your layout, measuring the area and confirming that your mounting points are secure. For outdoor installations, hang the cord so the sockets and bulbs face downward. Use the mounting loops or ears on the cord when provided, or secure the cord to a properly installed guide wire with suitable ties or clips. Do not use the electrical cord itself as structural support across long unsupported spans. Product-specific installation instructions are available on many PartyLights product pages, and our How to Hang Outdoor String Lights guide covers common layouts and hardware.
Can your lights be left up year-round?
Many PartyLights commercial grade string light cords are designed for year-round outdoor use, but the rating varies by product. Check the product page for the specific cord's wet-location, IP or outdoor-use rating before permanent installation. To maintain weather resistance, keep a bulb installed in every socket, install bulbs/sockets facing downward, and properly seal connection points or cut ends when the product instructions require it. Cutting or modifying some cords can void their safety rating or warranty.
What kind of power source do I need?
Most PartyLights plug-in string light systems operate on standard 120V household power. We do have some products that are low voltge. The product title will indicate the lower voltage; when nothing is listed, assume it is standard 120V. Bulk reel products may be supplied without a plug and are intended to be hard-wired or fitted with a plug by a qualified electrician. Before installation, confirm the cord's maximum amperage/wattage and the wattage of the bulbs you plan to use. For permanent, commercial or hard-wired installations, follow local electrical codes and use a qualified electrician when appropriate.
Do I need guide wire or other support?
For long unsupported spans, yes. Our commercial E26 string light products generally call for steel cable guide wire on spans longer than 20 feet for 14-gauge cord or 25 feet for 16- or 18-gauge cord. Some products have different requirements, so always check the product page or installation instructions for your exact cord. Guide wire reduces stress on the electrical cord and provides a secure structure for long-term installations.
Are your bulbs LED and dimmable?
PartyLights sells both LED and incandescent bulbs, and nearly all of our LED bulbs are dimmable. Dimming capability is product specific, so check the bulb's product page before purchasing. When dimming LED bulbs, use a dimmer that is compatible with dimmable LED lighting. Most LED bulbs' lowest dimming point is 10% whereas incandescent can dim the full range of 0% to 100%.
How do I connect multiple string light sets?
Only connect sets end-to-end when the product is specifically designed for end-to-end connection. Some shorter cords include both a male plug and female connector, while many 100-foot cords are single-end systems and 330-foot bulk reels may have no plugs at all. Never assume two cords can be connected simply because they use the same bulb or socket size. Check the Connection and Maximum Run specifications on the product page before combining sets.
What is the maximum run length?
There is no single maximum length for every PartyLights string light system. Maximum run is determined by the specific cord's electrical rating and the total wattage of the bulbs. For example, many end-to-end commercial cords are rated for a maximum load of 960 watts (8 amps), while some heavier 14-gauge systems allow a higher maximum load. LED bulbs use much less power than incandescent bulbs, which can allow more sockets in a run. Always use the Maximum Run and Maximum Wattage Per Socket specifications listed for your exact cord rather than relying on a universal footage limit.
How do I troubleshoot if my lights aren't working?
First confirm that the outlet has power and that any GFCI outlet or breaker has not tripped. Make sure every bulb is seated securely and that the bulb base matches the socket. If only one bulb is out, try a known-working compatible bulb in that socket. If an entire connected section is out, inspect the plug, connectors and any fuse in the plug where applicable, and confirm that the installation has not exceeded the cord's maximum electrical load. Stop using the set if you see damaged wire, cracked sockets, water intrusion or overheating. If the problem continues, contact PartyLights Customer Service with your order number, product/SKU and photos so we can help identify the correct next step.