You Want to Save Cash & Be a Good Neighbor!
When picking your new lighting solutions, you really need to keep three things in mind. First, how energy-efficient (and cost-effective) your new lights will be? Secondly, you need to consider both form and function (how these lights fit in with your aesthetic and overall mood). Lastly, you also need to think about your neighbors, as outdoor lighting affects more than just you. We know how annoying it can be to get light pollution from your neighbor, but luckily, there are plenty of options out there to light your area perfectly but not intrude into others' spaces.
So, we'll talk about the options available and how to actually pick your lights!
LEDs aren't the Only Option
There are a lot of options out there for energy-efficient lights. However, LEDs are the most common but don't be fooled into thinking they are the only option. As long as something has the Energy Star rating, it should be sufficient to give enough light and not drain your electric bill. We're not saying LEDs are bad by any means; just know there are more options out there, and just be sure to check the light emission and energy-efficient before deciding.
This also leads to style; sometimes, LEDs don't work entirely as well in larger fixtures, and this is where CFL bulbs can come into play. So, let's look at some differences:
CFL bulbs are brighter and can be used in a wide array of fixtures, whereas LEDs emit a much different type of light and are much duller. CFLs produce UV light; however, LEDs take the crown for energy efficiency, as they are generally 75% more energy efficient than normal lighting options. Whereas CFLs are about 30%. This means you can either go for full efficiency or a little more traditional and still save.
Shine the Light Down
The next most obvious option is to ditch the four-side open lights. They sort of spray the light all throughout your space (and into others). We have recently been moving more towards pointed lighting to give your space the exact feel and look you want while reducing the light pollution for others.
This also can let you really match the style of your home as it opens a huge array of choices in terms of fixtures and allows your home to stand out from the cookie-cutter lighting options most generally seen.
Choosing What Works For You
This is all well and good. However, the real choice comes back to what you want and what you want your home to look like. So, if you want more light, go with a CFL and maybe a pointed fixture to keep everything going in the right direction. If you care most about energy efficiency, go for LEDs and maybe more open fixtures to get enough light everywhere.
If you're thinking about a renovation in Wilmington, NC, and want a team that can help you design your dreams and take the job all the way, call the team at Avocet Design Build today to turn your dreams into reality!