It’s that time of year again when the days start getting shorter and the nights get longer. While this may be a welcome change for some, it can also mean increased safety risks around the home. One of the best ways to stay safe during the autumn and winter months is to make sure your outdoor lighting is up to par.
Not sure where to start? Here are some dos and don’ts of outdoor lighting to help you get started:
Dos
Do: Install motion sensor lights.
One of the best ways to deter burglars and increase your home’s safety is to install motion sensor lights. These lights will turn on automatically when someone or something enters the sensor’s range, providing a well-lit area for you and your family.
Do: Place lights in strategic locations.
When placing your outdoor lights, be sure to put them in strategic locations around your home. This means placing them in areas that are most likely to be used, such as walkways, driveways, and entrances. This will not only deter potential criminals but will also make it easier for you and your family to move around safely in the dark.
Do: Keep your lights clean.
Dirty outdoor lights are not only unsightly, but they can also reduce the effectiveness of the light. Be sure to clean your outdoor lights on a regular basis to keep them shining bright at night. Doing so will also help to prolong the life of the light. Most outdoor lights can be easily cleaned with a hose or pressure washer.
Do: Use energy-efficient bulbs.
When choosing outdoor light bulbs, be sure to choose ones that are energy-efficient. Not only will this help you save money on your energy bill, but it will also help reduce your carbon footprint. In the US, energy-efficient light bulbs must have a minimum efficacy of 45 lumens per watt (LPW). If you’re in the market for a new outdoor light installation, be sure to contact Blingle! lighting experts. They offer light installation services with a variety of different lighting styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect lights for your home.
Don’ts
Don’t: Use lights with exposed wires.
Outdoor lights with exposed wires are not only a safety hazard but can also be a fire hazard. Be sure to choose lights that have all of the wiring hidden away to avoid any accidents. Did you know that in the US, outdoor lights must be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed? This means that they have been tested and approved by a third-party safety organization.
If your outdoor light is not UL listed, we recommend that you replace it as soon as possible.
Don’t: Use extension cords.
While extension cords may seem like an easy way to get around not having outlet access, they are actually a fire hazard and should be avoided. If you must use extension cords, be sure to choose ones that are rated for outdoor use and are UL listed.
Don’t: Use lights with frayed cords.
Just like extension cords, using outdoor lights with frayed cords is also a fire hazard. Be sure to inspect your light cords on a regular basis for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any fraying, we recommend that you replace the cord as soon as possible.
Don’t: Forget about your lights when you go on vacation.
If you’re going to be away from home for an extended period of time, it’s important to remember to turn off your outdoor lights. Not only will this help save you money on your energy bill, but it will also help deter potential criminals.
Don’t: Use low-quality lights.
When it comes to outdoor lighting, it’s important to use high-quality products. This not only includes the light bulbs but also the fixtures themselves. Choosing a cheap light fixture may save you money upfront, but it will likely need to be replaced much sooner than a higher quality one. In the long run, it’s actually more cost-effective to choose a higher quality light fixture.
Outdoor lighting is an important part of any home security system. By following the dos and don’ts above, you can help deter potential criminals and keep your family safe.
We hope that these tips will help you keep your home safe and well-lit this autumn and winter. Do you have any outdoor lighting tips that you would like to share? Let us know in the comments below.
