Are you looking to upgrade your outdoor lighting system? If so, then these top ten tips should help you get started.
Outdoor lighting systems are often overlooked when upgrading or replacing existing fixtures. This is unfortunate because they play a vital role in creating a welcoming environment for guests and visitors.
Upgrading your outdoor lighting system can improve safety and security, increase property value, and provide better visibility. Before you start, here are our top ten tips on how to do it right:
- Choose the Right Bulb Type
The first thing that you need to consider when choosing an outdoor bulb type is what kind of light output you want. There are several types of bulbs available including incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, LED, and more. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, incandescent bulbs have a warm glow but tend to be inefficient and produce high heat. Halogen bulbs are bright and efficient, but their color temperature tends to shift over time. Florescent bulbs offer great energy efficiency, but they don’t last as long as other options.
LEDs are becoming increasingly popular due to their low power consumption, durability, and longevity. They also come in many different styles and colors. However, LEDs aren’t always the best option for every application. You may find that some applications require a specific color temperature. In this case, you might want to choose a standard white LED instead.
- Consider Your Budget
When deciding which outdoor lighting system will work best for your needs, budget is one of the most important factors. The cost of installing new lights can vary depending on where you live and whether you hire professionals to install them. Also, keep in mind that if you plan to use motion-detecting technology, you’ll likely need to purchase additional equipment.
- Decide What Kind of Light Output You Want
When selecting a fixture, you’ll need to decide what kind of light output is needed.
- Do you want soft ambient lighting or strong task lighting?
- How much light does your home receive during the day?
- Will you need to illuminate walkways, driveways, steps, or paths?
These questions will help determine what kind of lighting you need. It is important for you to understand and answer these questions before purchasing any outdoor lighting products.
- Select the Right Size Fixture
Once you know what kind of light output and size you need, you’ll be able to select the appropriate fixture. Keep in mind that the size of the fixture will depend on the amount of space you have available.
For example, if you have a large patio with plenty of room, you could opt for a larger fixture. If you only have a small porch, you might want to go with a smaller fixture.
- Determine Where You Want to Install It
Once you know what kind of light output and features you want, you’ll next need to figure out where you want to place the lights. Is there enough space for all of the lights? Can you mount them on posts or poles? Will you need to add additional lights later? All of these things will affect how you design your lighting scheme.
- Choose the Best Location
The location of your outdoor lighting fixtures will also play a big role in determining how effective it will be. For instance, if you want to illuminate a pathway, you’ll probably need to position the lights so that they cast shadows. This way, people walking down the path will see the lights.
If you want to highlight a garden bed, you should place the lights at the edge of the bed so that they shine directly into the center. This will make it easier for visitors to spot plants growing in the beds.
- Add Motion Detection Technology
If you plan to use motion detection technology, you’re going to need to purchase additional equipment such as sensors and receivers. These devices allow you to turn off the lights when no one is around.
And before you think that it’s just for aesthetics, motion detection technology is actually a good add-on as it can help strengthen the security and safety of your property.
- Include Features That Make Installation Easy
You don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money on an outdoor lighting system. However, you do want to ensure that the product has the right features. For example, if you want to create a beautiful landscape, you’ll want to consider adding a timer feature. This way, you won’t have to worry about turning the lights on and off manually.
- Consider Adding LED Lights
While there are different types of lights as mentioned above, LED lights are still the best option for your outdoors. They offer many benefits including energy efficiency, long life span, low maintenance, and durability.
- Don’t Forget About Your Plants
Finally, don’t forget about your plants! While you may not notice this initially, you’ll eventually start noticing that your plants aren’t getting enough sunlight.
This means that you’ll need to install more lights to provide adequate illumination. And while you’re at it, you might even want to consider installing some solar panels too.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to upgrading your outdoor lighting, you shouldn’t feel like you have to break the bank. In fact, you can get great results without spending a fortune. So, take advantage of the tips we’ve shared here today and you’ll soon find yourself enjoying the benefits of a new lighting system.
If you plan on upgrading your outdoor lighting, it is best to seek assistance from outdoor lighting professionals. They can give you the right advice and guidance needed to achieve the look you desire.
Do you Want To Upgrade Your Outdoor Lighting?
Resort Lighting, Inc. is the standard for Landscape, Architectural & Multi-Function Lighting System Design. We specialize in creating custom-designed systems using high-quality products. Our goal is to exceed our customer’s expectations by providing them with the highest quality products available.
If you are in Southampton, NY, contact us today for all your outdoor lighting needs.
