How to Save Money on Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting is essential to every home, because it not only lights the pathways and deters nighttime intrusions, but also helps accent the house and garden after sunset. Lighting, however, can become a major burden in housekeeping expenses. Rather than eliminate outdoor lighting, how about some cost-saving lighting solutions? Here are some suggestions.

Things You'll Need

• Solar lights
• Motion sensor lights
• Photosensitive lights
• Low emission lights
• Automatic timers

Instructions

1. Evaluate the house periphery to determine the ideal locations for outdoor lighting. By positioning lamps where they can offer the most coverage, you avoid turning on extra or unnecessary lights. For example, pilot lights located at each of the four corners of the house will provide sufficient all-around illumination.

2. Install motion sensor lights in strategic areas around the house, especially in the backyard. Motion sensor lights turn on only when they sense intruders to the proximity. Calibrate your lights to medium sensitivity so that they come on only when a figure larger than a squirrel crosses the yard.

3. Install photosensitive lights for areas that you want to be lit as soon as it gets dark, like the front porch or the back door. Adjust the photosensitivity so that they turn on at sunset (not before) and turn off at sunrise (not after).

4. Use automatic timers in place of photosensitive lights. Attach timers to outdoor lighting that should turn on and off at desired times. Adjust the timers to coincide with sunset and sunrise times from one season to the next.

5. Use solar lighting for pathways and garden features. On bright and sunny days, you will appreciate not having to pay for nighttime lighting by installing solar-powered lamps in pathways, driveways, patios and garden areas. Turn off regular lighting when solar-powered lights are functioning.

6. Consider low-emission lights like compact fluorescent lights and LEDs. Save money by using low wattage lights for outdoor areas that only require ambient lighting like patios and lounging areas.

7. Consider using candles for mood lighting. Especially for garden parties and other all-night social occasions, candles would be the most cost-effective illumination for dining tables and other outdoor amenities.

8. Use light bulbs that provide just the right illumination to the areas you want to be lit. Refrain from installing too many bright lights that become extravagantly superfluous--unless it's the holidays.

Tips & Warnings

• When purchasing motion sensor and photosensitive lights, choose the ones that allow you to fine-tune their sensors, because this will help you conserve energy usage and save money.

• Solar-powered lamps are excellent sources of light, but during dark and cloudy seasons, ensure that regular lighting is available when solar lights are not functioning.

• Some light bulbs are not suitable for outdoor use. Always follow manufacturer's instructions on using lighting solutions outdoors.

Resources

• SolarHome.org: Solar Outdoor Lighting