Adding outdoor lighting to your residential home creates an aesthetically pleasing facade many homeowners seek. Outdoor lighting also provides security and safety for you and your loved ones. Outdoor lighting systems vary by use, style, and more.
There are many different types of outdoor light. But all require preventative maintenance to continue properly lighting up your outdoor space for a more extended period. Whether you’re using outdoor security lights to keep your home safe or simply lighting up your covered porch to enjoy your outdoor space, follow our guide to outdoor lighting for longer-lasting outdoor lights.
At-home lighting maintenance is a great way to care for your lights, but some situations require professional assistance. Call Woodstock’s trusted lighting contractor for professional-grade service for any outdoor or indoor lighting service.
Clean Your Lights Periodically
Outdoor lighting requires periodic cleaning, just as any home item does. The difference is that outdoor lighting can quickly accumulate sediment because of the outdoor elements, especially if you live in a section of the country that regularly experiences the harsh variation of all four seasons.
Autumn leaves and summer insects can create quite a muck on outdoor lights. Additionally, winter snow and sleet generate the risk of moisture getting trapped in your lighting system. Any climate will have debris buildup or moisture risks for your outdoor lighting. Periodically cleaning your outdoor lights will help to reduce the likelihood that buildup or moisture from the elements will lead to further issues.
To remove debris from lights, use a glass cleaner on each lens. This gentle and effective method will not leave a filmy residue or scratch the lights. Use a damp cloth for the light casing and wire to gently remove any dirt or debris.
If you find that your outdoor lighting system requires a little more TLC than just a routine cleaning, hire a trusted lighting contractor to inspect your outdoor lighting system.
Use the Proper Timer Settings
Different times of the year require different outdoor lighting settings. The sun rises later and sets earlier in the winter, so your lights will be on for longer. Conversely, the extended daylight hours of summertime mean there is less need for outdoor lighting. However, the summer comes with pleasant temperatures that encourage outdoor events. If you’re entertaining under outdoor lighting frequently in the summertime, be sure to use a timer that will turn off your lights when the party is over.
By setting a timer for your outdoor lighting systems, you are saving on energy without having to remember to shut off your lights yourself. Setting a timer will also improve the lifespan of your outdoor lighting system.
Put your outdoor lighting on the proper setting in any season to keep them lasting longer. Selecting the appropriate light setting will also save you money on energy costs. Many outdoor lighting systems have both a winter and a summer setting to make it easy to switch to the proper setting for each season. Updating your timer setting will help prevent your light bulbs from burning out too soon, thus avoiding having to change your bulbs frequently.
Change the Bulbs as Necessary
Many things can affect the lifespan of your light bulbs. As mentioned above, setting a timer and not leaving your outdoor lights on when not in use will help to lengthen the lifespan of your outdoor lights. Other environmental conditions like temperature changes, extreme weather, or moisture exposure will affect the frequency of having to change out your light bulbs.
LED lights tend to last longer and are typically more energy efficient. If you’ve reached the point of bulb burnout, consider replacing your outdoor light bulbs with an LED option.
Consider hiring a professional if your outdoor lighting requires putting yourself in a dangerous position like climbing on a roof.
Bury the Wires
Exposed wires can be hazardous. Avoid accidents by burying any wiring around your home. Exposed wires can cause outages or even human injury. When you install your outdoor lighting, take care to bury any wires that are at ground level.
Make sure to regularly check that all wiring has remained buried. Sometimes heavy snow or rain can cause buried wires to become exposed. Be careful to conceal all wires to avoid any accidents.
Doing a periodic survey of your property, especially in the winter, will ensure that all electrical wiring is properly buried. It will also give you clarity on any issues that need repairing.
Take Steps to Prevent Moisture
A significant threat to outdoor lighting is moisture. The light will likely short out once water gets into a lighting fixture or bulb. Choosing outdoor lighting with a lifetime warranty won’t necessarily eliminate the risk of shorts, but it will negate the cost of replacing damaged lighting.
The outdoors are unpredictable, and moisture is present even when it doesn’t rain or snow. However, if your outdoor lighting is covered in snow or sleet, removing it as soon as possible will help prevent any noticeable moisture from seeping in and causing damage.
By performing these simple routine maintenance practices, you can prevent costly damage to your outdoor lighting. When you need an outdoor lighting contractor, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.
There are many different options for outdoor lighting. Be sure to choose the best option for you and your home.
Many homeowners opt for energy-efficient lighting because of its many benefits. If you’re curious about what kind of outdoor lighting may be best for you, check out the top benefits of energy-efficient lighting.
Learn more about outdoor lighting services or schedule a call with one of our professional representatives at Long View Lighting at 770-790-3511.
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