Accessory Outlets on Pre-Lit Trees: What to Plug In

What is an accessory outlet on a pre-lit tree?

A pre-lit tree arrives with its lights already installed and wired to a power cord. On many models, that wiring includes a built-in outlet, sometimes called an accessory outlet, made for a tree topper or extra light strand. The outlet is usually placed partway up the trunk or near the top, so a star or angel can plug in without a separate extension cord running down the tree.

Not every pre-lit tree has one. Tabletop and mini trees rarely do, while full-size trees in the 6 to 9 ft range are more likely to include it. The listing or spec sheet usually lists "accessory outlet" or "built-in outlet" when it is present. If it is not mentioned, assume the tree does not have one. When you compare best pre-lit trees, check that detail if a topper or added lights are part of your plan.

Understand the load limit

The maker prints a load limit for the accessory outlet, usually in amps or watts, on the tree's label, power cord, or instruction sheet. That number tells you how much extra power the outlet can safely deliver on top of the tree's own lights. Stay under it whenever you plug something in.

Overloaded outlets are a common cause of holiday fires. The National Christmas Tree Association notes that overloaded electric outlets and faulty wires are the most common causes of holiday fires in residences, and the risk is the same with artificial trees. The U.S. Fire Administration advises reading the manufacturer's instructions for the number of light strands to connect.

A few habits keep the outlet safe:

• Find the printed limit on the tree's label or power cord.
• Keep the tree's own lights plus anything you plug in under that limit.
• Read the maker's instructions for how many light strands can connect.
• Discard strands with frayed or pinched wires.

What you can plug into the outlet

Two things most often go into an accessory outlet: the tree topper and extra light strands. A lit topper with a plug is a direct fit, provided its cord is in good shape and its power draw stays under the limit. For toppers that use a small adapter, check the adapter's wattage before you connect it. See the tree topper guide for advice on matching a topper to your tree.

For extra lights, LED strands are the better choice. ENERGY STAR reports LED decorative light strings use about 92 percent less energy than conventional incandescent strings, so they add far less load to the outlet. If you want to add several strands, compare each strand's wattage and add them up before plugging in. The article on how many light strands can connect walks through the math.

Safety and certification

Before you plug anything into the outlet, inspect the cords. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends inspecting holiday lights each year before you put them up and throwing away strands with frayed or pinched wires. Also keep the tree at least 3 feet away from heat sources, and make sure it does not block exits.

Look for a safety certification mark on the tree and on anything you plug in. The ETL Listed Mark from Intertek, for example, means a product has been independently tested to the applicable safety standards, the same standards used by other recognized certification bodies. A tree with a certified outlet and certified add-on lights gives you an extra measure of confidence. Learn more about UL, ETL, and CSA marks.

Choosing a tree with an accessory outlet

If you plan to use a topper or add lights, pick a tree that has an accessory outlet. The feature is most common on full-size pre-lit trees, so when comparing models, check the spec sheet for "accessory outlet" before you buy. Consider the outlet's position too: a socket near the top makes a topper easy to wire, while a socket lower on the trunk may ask for a longer topper cord.

For taller trees, an outlet on the trunk is especially useful because the topper may be otherwise hard to reach. Many of the tall pre-lit models in the guides below list this feature. If you are shopping for a smaller tree, keep in mind that tabletop sizes rarely include one. The power cord and placement guide explains how the tree's overall wiring is laid out.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I plug extra lights into the accessory outlet on my pre-lit tree?

Yes, as long as the total load stays under the limit the maker prints on the label or power cord. LED strands use much less energy than incandescent ones, so they are the safer choice for added lights.

How do I know the load limit on my tree's accessory outlet?

Check the label attached to the tree, the power cord, or the instruction sheet. The limit is usually printed in amps or watts. If you cannot find it, contact the maker before plugging anything in.

What happens if I overload the accessory outlet?

The outlet may blow a fuse, the lights may dim, or the wiring may overheat. Overloaded outlets are a common cause of holiday fires, so always keep the total load under the printed limit.

Do all pre-lit trees have accessory outlets?

No. The feature is more common on full-size trees in the 6 to 9 ft range and rarely appears on tabletop or mini trees. Check the spec sheet for "accessory outlet" before you buy.

Can I plug a tree topper into the accessory outlet?

Yes, if the topper has a plug and its power draw stays under the limit. For toppers that use a small adapter, check the adapter's wattage before connecting.

Should I use an extension cord with the accessory outlet?

Usually not. It is better to plug the tree into a wall outlet and avoid chaining extension cords or power strips. If you must use an extension cord, use one rated for the load and inspect it for damage.