RESOURCES > Buying Guide > Getting the Lights Just Right!

Why are prelit trees so popular?

1. You don't waste time untangling Christmas tree lights

2. You don't have unsightly wires hanging on your beautiful tree

When you buy an artificial tree, you're saving the time and hassle of untangling and stringing your own Christmas lights. Most manufacturers provide a variety of options, including clear lights, multicolored lights, and other configurations. Premium retailers offer Color+Clear™ lights, allowing you to change from clear to multicolor to both, all at the touch of a remote button.

Many people think "the more lights the better." Manufacturers will often skimp on quality by reducing the number of lights; others pack the tree so full of lights that the glare hides the poor tree construction. Preferred retailers carefully craft trees with a naturally aesthetic lighting aspect, giving the tree a warm, festive winter glow.

To judge the quality of tree lights, make sure the lights are UL-approved and have standard features like "anti-twist" bulbs and a design supporting continued lighting functionality even when one burns out. Always check the length of the warranty; make sure the company selling you the tree is the company that backs up the warranty: otherwise you will be passed on to a third party.