How do you keep your house breathtakingly beautiful even when the sun has already set and darkness fills the place? This is where the magic of outdoor lights comes in! Installing these lights is not limited to providing illumination during the night, as it also adds a vibe and enhances a certain level of curb appeal to your home.
While you might overthink the chores and fees to maintain outdoor lights, keeping them in top condition can be manageable. To ensure the longevity of your New Jersey home’s outdoor lights and make sure they look terrific, here are some tips to keep in mind:
#1 Test Before Installing
Have your lights checked as early as pre-installation, especially when bought online. This helps you identify if it’s appropriately working before putting them up in its designated location. Doing so saves you from doubling your workload by first mounting the lights and then uninstalling them again to address some issues.
If you are uncomfortable with installing and maintaining, it’s best to ask for professional help. Experts from Blingle! of East Hanover have the experience and knowledge to ensure your outdoor lighting system runs efficiently.
#2 Look Out for Hazard
It is important to make sure that your fixtures are situated in the right areas. Placing them near areas with heightened fire risk is a no-no. Keep the lights away from combustible materials, such as grasses, shrubs, and trees, to maintain outdoor lights. It would be best if you also were mindful of your lights’ proximity to your house. It may get damaged due to the elevated temperature if it is located very close to an area with lots of heat.
#3 Clean Regularly
From time to time, it is recommended to clean the lights and their fixtures. It’s easy for outdoor lights to get dirt to accumulate and stick on them over time due to exposure to wind and rain, making them very prone to rusting and other damage. Cleaning will help keep them from being ineffective and lengthen their lifespan, saving you an amount.
You can use a damp cloth or a brush with soapy water for this task; however, you should be careful not to get any water on electrical parts, as it may cause short circuits. This will keep them looking great and free from debris.
#4 Check for Damages Regularly
Make it a habit to check if there are any issues you need to cater to maintain outdoor lights. Your lighting is only as good as its bulbs, so it’s essential to check them regularly for damage or burnout. If you notice any broken bulbs, replace them immediately. Most bulbs can last up to 2 years with regular use, but it’s a good idea to ensure they are in top condition throughout the season.
Moreover, check for signs such as loose wires, corrosion and dirt, and other indications of faulty wiring that could potentially become an electrical hazard.
#5 Switch to better materials
If you are dealing with bulb or fixture replacements, opt for something that is high-quality and waterproof to withstand New Jersey’s weather conditions. Look for rust-resistant and UV-protected products to ensure their longevity, even if exposed for long periods.
In replacing your lights, switch your traditional light bulbs with long-lasting LED options. This provides excellent illumination while consuming less electricity than regular ones. There is a wide variety of LED bulbs in the market, so you’ll still be able to choose a color temperature that best fits the vibe of your outdoors.
#6 Fix Faulty Wiring
It is inevitable to have any exposed wires on your outdoor lighting system after a certain time. Exposed wires pose a safety hazard and can lead to short-circuiting and possibly even an electrical fire. Make sure to maintain outdoor lights by checking for any loose wiring so you can have an electrician fix it. This will ensure that your outdoor lights will run safely and smoothly all year round.
#7 Use a Timer
Outdoor lights are of no use come daytime, even if you switch them on. This unnecessary consumption of energy fuels your electrical bill. You can have this regulated by using a timer to ensure that they are always on when you need them. This will also help you save energy by only turning on the lights when necessary and save time by not having to turn them off manually each day.
To Sum It Up
Having outdoor lights makes you see at night and lets you enjoy a magnificent view of your house, so it’s just right to have them taken care of! This is a critical step in maximizing its lifespan and keeping it safe. By following the tips on how to maintain outdoor lights of your New Jersey home, you can ensure that your fixtures stay in top condition for as long as possible. Keep these steps in mind, and you’ll be sure to have appropriately functioning outdoor lighting all year round.