With winter approaching and nights getting longer, now is a good time to review the quality, safety and effectiveness of your home’s outside lighting. Well placed exterior lighting is good for your property all year round and if installed correctly will last for years. However, in winter good quality outdoor lighting is particularly useful for the following reasons:
1. Home Security
A well lit property can act as a deterrent to potential burglars and so enhance feelings of safety and security at home. It also allows homeowners to check what is going on in the garden or at the front of the house when it is dark outside. There are different types of outdoor security lighting, designed for different uses:
- Timed Lights or motion activated lights are particularly useful for any areas that are overlooked by neighbours, passing pedestrians or traffic e.g. the front door, driveway, garage, side door. This is because a well lit area combined with the possibility of being seen, is thought to be a good way to deter intruders.
- Manual lights with an on/off switch can be useful for areas that are not directly overlooked. These can be turned on and off as required, in places where a motion activated or timed light would not bring added benefit.
A good electrician would be able to advise you on the best locations for external security lights.
2. Accident Prevention
At this time of year there can be lots of slippy, wet leaves, ice and sometimes even snow on the ground and front door step. These hazards can be difficult enough to navigate in full daylight but can prove treacherous when dark, particularly for older people. Good outdoor lighting can make walking from the car to the front door much safer for everyone.
3. Kerb Appeal
Well designed external lighting can enhance the beauty of your property. It can add to the impression of a warm, well cared for, inviting home and even help when you come to sell your property. A good electrician will be able to give you ideas on how to use external lighting to its best advantage in your home.
4. Christmas Fun
Outdoor decorative lighting is becoming more and more popular. However it is essential that any outdoor fairy lights or Xmas figures are connected to the electricity supply safely. Extension leads fed from inside the house are a trip hazard as well as a safety risk. The pvc wire can be damaged by both the external elements and small animals. Outdoor sockets should always be used and should be installed by a fully qualified electrician.
If you need assistance with selecting or fitting the right outdoor lighting for your needs, please get in touch. We can help you design and install the right external light fittings to improve the security, functionality, safety and beauty of your property.