7 Common Outdoor Lighting Mistakes You Should Avoid
You’ve spent a great deal of time and effort setting up your outdoor lighting on the Gold Coast, but when the sun goes down and you look upon your handiwork, something feels off. The lights are casting awkward shadows in some places, while in other places there is a blinding glare.
Your exterior lighting plays a big role in creating a welcoming and functional exterior, but without the right know-how, you could end up creating a cold and uncomfortable atmosphere.
If you're planning a new installation or upgrading an old one, keep an eye out for these common outdoor lighting pitfalls.
1. Poor Fixture Placement
Placing your lights too high or too low can create unwanted glare or uneven shadows. Walkways, entrances and entertaining areas in particular need lighting that balances brightness and coverage without blinding you.
2. Ignoring Light Layering
A common mistake many DIY lighting setups make is to rely on only one type of light, such a single bright floodlight. However, through the measured use of a mix of ambient, task and accent lighting, you can create depth and dimension. A single spotlight won’t cut it for outdoor dining or highlighting garden features.
3. Using The Wrong Bulbs
Not all light bulbs are made for the Currumbin, Burleigh Heads and Elanora climates. Using indoor-rated globes can lead to quick burnout or even safety issues. Choose weather-resistant bulbs with the right colour temperature and wattage to achieve a warm and inviting glow.
4. Forgetting About Glare
Harsh lights pointed directly at eye level can ruin an otherwise relaxing evening outdoors. You could consider using shielded fixtures or diffused lighting to maintain visibility without blinding everybody.
5. Overlooking Energy Efficiency
Leaving halogen lights running all night can rack up energy bills fast. Modern LED options, on the other hand, are not only more efficient but also last longer, requiring less maintenance.
6. No Automation or Controls
Manual switches aren’t always practical for every outdoor setup. Consider installing things like timers, motion sensors, or smart lighting systems to facilitate better control and help you accrue energy savings.
7. Neglecting Maintenance Access
It’s easy to forget how you’ll need to reach the light again when a bulb needs replacing. So try to position your fixtures in spots that allow for safe and simple access when maintenance is required.
Whether you’re planning an upgrade or installing a new setup, the experts at HUX Electrical will help you avoid making any regrettable outdoor lighting mistakes. Contact us today for all your lighting needs.
