When it comes to choosing and setting up outdoor lighting, you have a lot of options. However, depending on how and where you want to use your outdoor lights, there may be some distinct advantage to choosing one type of light over another. In this article we’ll take a closer look at one of the most popular choices for outdoor lighting, LED’s. We’ll review what, if any advantages LED lights offer and whether they are the right choice for your next outdoor lighting project.
Cost Efficient
LED lights offer many benefits and the low cost to operate them is one of their biggest advantages. On average an LED light bulb typically uses up to 90% less energy than comparable incandescent or halogen light bulbs. But this is only part of the savings. Since they also last a lot longer than these other types of bulbs, you also save by not having to replace them as often. So, LED lights help you save in two ways: on your electric bill and in your shopping cart.
Although saving money is a great reason to choose LED lighting, outdoor LED lighting has many other advantages outside of saving money and energy. Let’s look at some of the lesser known advantages offered by LED lighting.
A Variety of Color Tints and Options
Although traditional bulbs offer different color options, not many can match the variety offered by LED lights. You’ll find you have a lot more flexibility in choosing color when it comes to LED lighting. And depending on the type of LED lights you purchase; some allow you to adjust the color tint of the bulb. In addition, many LED lights today can also be used with a dimmer switch (check to make sure the ones you buy are compatible). This allows you to soften the intensity of the light depending on the mood and atmosphere you want to achieve. Between the variety of colors and tints available, it’s hard to match the color flexibility that LED lights offer. This makes them ideal for an outdoor patio or even a garden area with a fountain.
Lighting Large Spaces
The light intensity produced by LED’s is difficult to duplicate with traditional light bulbs. As a result, you’ll probably need fewer LED lights to achieve the same effect you would get with halogen or incandescent bulbs. So if you’re trying to light a larger space, like a deck or patio area, the sharp, intense light produced by LED’s will give you the most bang for your buck.
A Brighter, More Intense Light
Outside of offering a sharper, more intense light, LED’s appear much brighter too. There is a noticeable difference between the brightness of LED’s verses traditional lighting. This is especially true during times when the impact of outdoor lights have not taken full effect, like at twilight. So, if you have an area that requires good lighting under different conditions, like for an outdoor kitchen, some well-placed LED lights overhead will provide enough light for you to prepare some gourmet meals any time of the day or night.
Numerous Options
LED lights have seemingly unlimited options when it comes to style, sizes and color. You can find options available for all kinds of brightness levels, colors, tints, and to accommodate just about any outdoor setting. And since the light intensity is much better you can use them just about anywhere. Here are some of the best places to use outdoor LED lights.
- Around entry ways for security and motion detection.
- As decorative lighting on wall sconces or around perimeter of property.
- Patio and/or deck area.
- Underwater use in a pool, hot tub, pond or fountain.
- For an outdoor kitchen.
Less Bugs
In addition to the many other advantages, some LED lights offer an added bonus, they don’t attract as many bugs. There are few things less annoying than when you’re spending time by the pool or BBQing on your patio and you’re getting eaten alive by bugs that are attracted by your lights. Some LED lights attract less bugs than traditional exterior lights because insects use UV light and the infrared spectrum for navigation and locating food. Some LED lights emit very little light in the UV spectrum and therefore attract fewer bugs.
Professional Landscaping Design and Installation
Now that you know about all the advantages of using LED lighting outdoors, the next order of business is deciding exactly where you want to put them. This is where your local Mr. Electric can help. We have experience with all types of outdoor lighting setups. And whether you decide on LED or traditional lighting, we can provide you with some ideas and an outdoor lighting plan that meets your specific needs. To learn more, call us or visit us online to schedule an appointment.
