In this era of gadgets and social networking, a high electricity bill is inevitable. In fact, in an average household, 10% of the entire budget is spent on lighting alone. The high cost of power consumption is often caused by the frequent turning on and off of outdoor lights and fixtures. Not only does it waste energy, it also decreases the operational life of a conventional light bulb. Lessening the use of home electronics to save energy is not exactly an attractive proposal. Fortunately, there are other ways to reduce power expenditure, one of which is switching to energy-saving low voltage outdoor lighting.
There are three types of lighting products that qualify as energy-efficient. These are halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Although homeowners would have to spend more on initial costs, these bulbs save households money over the long term.
Halogen Incandescent Bulbs
Compared with traditional light bulbs, halogen bulbs last three times longer. These are also 25% more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. These come in a variety of shapes and colors that can also be used with dimmers. Halogen, the source of the light-producing reaction, is sealed inside the bulb.
Compact Fluorescent Lamps
Compact fluorescent lamps or bulbs can save enough money to pay for itself within nine months of usage. These last 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, and are 75% more efficient. Homeowners can get the same brightness and color of standard incandescent lights for less the cost.
LED Lighting
Light-emitting diodes (LED) are rapidly gaining popularity in homes and businesses. These bulbs are the most energy-efficient among the three. They use only 20-25% of the energy used by traditional incandescent bulbs. Their life span can last up to 25 times more than that of conventional lights. Because they have a rapid on and off cycle, the quality of the light they produce does not diminish with frequency of use. This makes it ideal as an outdoor landscape lighting solution.
Effective use of low-voltage LED lights will increase the quality and curb appeal of a home. Wall-mounted lamps, security lights, and free-standing lamp posts are all popular types of outdoor lighting that provide both illumination and style. Placing two of each on your property may seem unobtrusive and utilitarian, but much more can be done to use less energy and to accentuate the natural beauty of your home.
Low voltage lighting radiates a crisp white color that allows a homeowner to emphasize the texture of an exterior window frame, grand doorways, or other architectural features. It also lasts longer than most high-voltage options while giving off a softer, more subdued light versus a glaring spotlight effect. Please keep in mind that if you want your outdoor lights to achieve the desired effect, it is best to leave the layout and installation in the hands of capable lighting professionals like those at Outdoor Lighting Perspectives.
Why Choose Low Voltage Lighting?
The right source of lighting can redefine an outdoor space. Low voltage options have distinct benefits over high voltage lighting. These lights are:
Economical
Low voltage fixtures (like outdoor deck lighting or well lights) are more economical than their high voltage siblings. They require less electric current, which makes them cost-efficient. Their bulbs can also deliver up to 10,000 hours of power, eliminating the need for constant—expensive—replacements.
Smaller
A perfect yard is impossible to achieve when unsightly fixtures loom in the foreground. Low voltage lighting tends to be smaller, though, and less obtrusive. It offers slight frames, which can be hidden from view. This shifts focus from the bulbs to their beams and showcasing an outdoor space becomes far simpler.
Environmentally Friendly
The world is going green — and outdoor lighting is now following the trend.
Low voltage lights require fewer units of overall power, thus you’ll be generating less electricity by using them, which reduces emissions and greenhouse gasses. Their long shelf-life puts an end to excessive waste (users no longer have to toss out bulb after bulb, keeping glass and packaging out of the landfills). Additionally, the currents produced by low voltage lights are weaker, decreasing carbon levels in the atmosphere.
Designing Effective Outdoor Lighting
Just a few well-placed lights can make all the difference in the appearance of a patio, deck or other outdoor space. The best course of action when adding lighting outdoors is to clearly define all objectives prior to the start of the project. Many lighting projects can be performed by the handy do-it-yourselfer, as a weekend project.
If you don’t have time or resources required to light your entire yard, instead focus on one specific area. It can be most beneficial to light those areas closest to your home, because this is the centralized area where the majority of activity will be taking place.
Outdoor lighting is a great way to decorate a home. Small changes like switching light bulbs can make a big difference. By using energy-saving lights from such professionals as Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, homeowners can enjoy the savings and benefits of using sustainable products.