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LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and today's versions are available in just about every color of the rainbow. These features make them idea for outdoor use. Here are some great ideas about using LED lights outside.
Solar Landscape Lighting
Solar LED landscape lighting can be installed anywhere you want it without running wires. This type of landscape lighting is a great way to call attention to landscape features during twilight, and the gentle glow of landscape lighting makes your home a welcoming, relaxing place to return after a hard day at work, or to welcome your friends to on the weekend. Also, by illuminating walking paths, solar LED landscape lighting helps reduce the likelihood of slips and falls, especially during the winter when short days mean people come home well after dark, and when snow and ice can create hazardous conditions.
Holiday Lights
Nothing evokes the feeling of the holidays like a tasteful display, and there's nothing wrong with a little friendly competition among neighbors for the title of “best lights.” However, for those who get really enthusiastic about their decorations, the electricity to power them can get expensive. Since they don't use much power, LED holiday lights are ideal for dedicated decorators. LEDs are also a good choice since they don't get hot like traditional bulbs can, and thus pose less risk of fire or even burns to small children who may try to touch the lights.
Outdoor Seating Illumination
With the economy still a bit shaky, many homeowners are forgoing expensive vacations and instead fixing up their own homes to provide more rest and relaxation. One of the biggest trends is outdoor entertaining areas, and LED lights can add the perfect touch, helping create an alluring, inviting space. Picture yourself seated on comfortable, padded outdoor chores enjoying a drink with friends or that special someone, perhaps sitting near an outdoor firepit. All that's needed to take the space from “great” to “perfect” is a string of softly glowing, romantic lights. Today's LEDs, unlike the “bus station” ones of yesteryear, can provide a romantic glow just as well as traditional bulbs.
Security Lighting
A final use for LED outdoor lights is security lighting. It's common knowledge that those who are up to no good like darkness. They don't tend to mess around in well-lit areas where they can be seen by someone who might be able to give a description to the authorities. Bright traditional bulbs are good for security lighting, but tend to burn out when you need them. LED lights don't burn out for years, take less power, and provide significant illumination. There are even LED bulbs that screw into traditional fittings, so you don't have to spend money on new light fixtures. Make sure to use motion sensor-triggered lights, as always-on bright lights violate many local ordinances (not to mention annoying your neighbors).
Final Thoughts
Though LED lights are fantastic for use outdoors, you'll need to make sure they're designed for such use. Electricity and water do not mix, so you'll need to ensure that all electricity-carrying compartments are effectively sealed against moisture from rain and snow. Look for lights labeled either “indoor / outdoor” or simply “outdoor.” That way, you lights will be as safe and long-lasting as they are attractive.
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Source by Murray J Campbell
