Outdoor lighting is an important aspect of any property's exterior design. It enhances the beauty of the landscape, provides safety and security, and allows you to enjoy your outdoor living space long into the night. However, like any other electrical installation, outdoor lighting comes with its own set of challenges and problems. Here are some tips to help you avoid common problems with outdoor lighting.
Choose the Right Equipment and Products
Using the right equipment and products is critical to ensuring that your outdoor lighting system functions correctly and lasts for years to come. Many homeowners make the mistake of using indoor wiring and fixtures for their outdoor lighting needs, but this can lead to severe problems down the road. Indoor products are not built to withstand outdoor conditions and weather, and they can corrode and become non-functional when exposed to the elements. Always confirm that you are using wiring, fixtures, and equipment rated for wet outdoor use. This will ensure that a little rain won't damage your system or cause a fire.
Work with Knowledgeable Exterior Lighting Experts
Working with knowledgeable exterior lighting experts is also essential to the success of your outdoor lighting project. Electricians who specialize in indoor wiring may not be experienced with outdoor lighting installations, and they may not complete the job in the same way as an outdoor lighting professional would do it. Landscape lighting experts will have the necessary skills and knowledge to install your lighting system correctly and avoid common issues and problems.
Use Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting
One common issue that homeowners encounter with their outdoor lighting is hotspots or glare. This happens when a few bright fixtures are used to illuminate a large area, causing some areas to be washed out with too much light and other areas left in the dark. To avoid this problem, multiple low-voltage exterior lighting fixtures should be used instead of one bright light. Low-voltage LED lights are typically the best way to illuminate an outdoor space. This type of outdoor lighting ensures balance and symmetry among all your landscape lighting features.
Design Your Lighting System Carefully
Design issues can also arise when designing exterior path lighting. The runway effect, for example, happens when a series of lights are installed along a pathway on both sides to create symmetry. This can give the appearance of a landing strip at night, which is not preferred. Lighting experts recommend staggering lighting fixtures to achieve a more natural look, like stepping stones leading you to the next light. It is generally not necessary to bathe the path with light, as long as one pool of light reaches the next to avoid obstacles.
Choose Quality Landscape Lighting Professionals
Working with quality landscape lighting professionals will ensure that your project meets your expectations. Take the time to explore your options when it comes to choosing a professional who can get the job done right the first time around. A professional installation will not only ensure that your outdoor lighting system functions correctly but will also enhance the beauty and value of your property.
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