Whether you’re hanging in the backyard or camping in the backwoods, spending time outdoors is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature. But with that sense of serenity, we lose some of the creature comforts we’re used to. For instance, electrical outlets are less common outside than inside, meaning you may not have an easy…
Adapt to Your Surroundings
You’re probably familiar with that old animation trope where a light bulb appears above someone’s head when they have a great idea. So it’s only appropriate that you’ll need an actual light fixture to pull off this clever hack.
You can repurpose outdoor light fixtures to provide electrical power by adding an electrical socket adapter. Installation is easy: Simply unscrew a light bulb from any traditional outdoor fixture, screw in the socket adapter, and just like that, you have power.
There are various types of electrical socket adapters available for purchase. For instance, this single outlet adapter is among the most basic options; it allows you to plug in one device, though you’ll lose the light from that fixture. This double outlet adapter is far more versatile — not only are you able to plug in two devices, but you can also screw the light bulb back in for added light. Just be careful to limit the number of devices you plug in, as too much demand could cause the electrical circuits to fritz out.
Each adapter listed here can support up to 1250 watts. You’ll want to ensure the combined wattage of all the devices you plug in (including any light bulb) does not exceed this limit.
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This hack is incredibly useful, whether you’re sitting on your back deck or camping in a place with lights but no outlets. Either way, it allows you to charge a portable speaker to keep the tunes coming or run an electric bug zapper to ward off biting insects.
Bonus Hack: Let There Be Light
If your balcony or patio only has one measly light fixture and no outlets, you can still add ambiance with outdoor string lights. Rather than rely on rechargeable table lamps or LED candles, plug the string lights into the adapter and hang them throughout the space. Instead of a single light bulb, you’ll now have a much brighter, more inviting balcony or patio.
