Apr 01, 2025

Customer Question: Do you have a solution for squirrels eating my lights?

The Question

Hi there! I'm looking for a durable replacement cord for a 100' strand of LED G40 bulbs we use outside on our deck in Virginia. An enterprising squirrel chewed through the cord, and my search for a cord without squirrel-attractive oils led me to you. I think what I need is your C7 (E12) 100' Cord 12" Spacing, Black SPT-1 Wire (https://www.christmas-light-source.com/products/c7-cord-100-foot-spt-1-black-wire?variant=40140628754602).

However, we need to be able to connect two strands together end-to-end. I see in the product description that your 100' strands have only a male plug at one end.

Could we add any of your plugs to the other end to be able to connect two strands together? If so, please let me know which to order, and whether the installation requires an electrician. That's not me, but I can handle simple tasks with instructions. Thank you very much!

The Answer

Hi there,

Thanks so much for your question! Here’s the short answer first: You can absolutely add a female Gilbert plug to the end of a 100-foot C7 (E12) cord to connect two strands end-to-end, provided you don’t exceed the standard 10-amp limit (which typically translates to about 250 feet total of 18 AWG patio/light cord).

Below is a much longer answer are some details and tips to help you decide what’s best:

1. 100-foot cords with only a male plug
The 100-foot cords (SPT-1 or SPT-2, 18 AWG) are commercial grade which are commonly manufactured with just one male plug. A Gilbert (or “vampire”) plug can be installed on the other end to allow for easy end-to-end connection of multiple strands.

You might consider a cord with SPT-2 insulation. It’s a little thicker than SPT-1. While no electrical cord is rated for long term installation, slightly thicker insulation would be a good fit for your project.

C7 cords with SPT-2 wiring: https://www.christmas-light-source.com/collections/c7-e12-spt-2-cords

Video discussing the difference between SPT-1 and SPT-2 insulation.

2. Adding a Gilbert (female) plug

Yes, you can add a Gilbert plug onto your 100-foot cord. We have a quick video over on the Shellie at Christmas Light Source YouTube channel demonstrating exactly how to install these plugs.
If you’re at all uneasy about the process or have local electrical codes you’re concerned about, consult a licensed electrician. Most folks can handle it themselves with basic tools and careful attention to instructions, but everyone’s comfort level is different.

3. Electrical capacity

As a rule of thumb, keep your total run under 10 amps. The maximum allowable run for 18 AWG wire is 250 feet.
Always check the amp draw of your bulbs and add it up over the total run to ensure you stay under that 10-amp maximum rating.

4. Squirrel (and opossum) trouble

I’m so sorry you’re dealing with a mischievous rodent; we totally empathize! Unfortunately, no type of standard PVC cord is truly “rodent-proof.” Squirrels like to chew, period.
Wiring made of PVC or plastic doesn’t actually contain squirrel-attractive oils. There was a short-lived experiment involving soybean oil in automobile wiring, but it’s largely a myth that standard Christmas light cords or patio wires have that same oil.
If squirrels are a persistent issue, consider using repellants (found at feed or hardware stores) or other squirrel-deterrent strategies. However, keep in mind that determined critters can still chew through almost anything if they really want to. Here is a video that discusses this issue further:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6a-9tZlbPM
You might consider ordering extra gilbert plugs and bare 18 AWG wire to repair the wiring if it’s chewed through or damaged.

Bulk wire: https://www.christmas-light-source.com/collections/1000-foot-bulk-wire-18-awg

Gilbert Plugs: https://www.christmas-light-source.com/collections/gilbert-vampire-plugs-christmas-lights

5. Installation and safety

While installing a Gilbert plug can be a very straightforward DIY project, safety first. If you have any doubt, a licensed electrician can help with a quick installation.
After installation, be sure to test your strands carefully before fully hanging them up.

I hope this helps you find the right replacement cord and get back to enjoying your lights in no time. If you have any further questions, feel free to let us know—good luck, and here’s wishing you a squirrel-free lighting season!