When you’re entertaining in the summer, outdoor lighting is a great way to set a festive mood, add some sparkle and keep the fun going even after sundown. But if you’re not careful, your outdoor lighting setup can drain serious energy, especially because many outdoor lights get left on all night long. To prevent your electrical bill from soaring to the stars, follow these tips for saving energy on your outdoor lighting this summer.

Best bulb for the job

Consider switching any fluorescent light bulbs in your exterior fixtures to compact fluorescent (CFL) or LED lights. These are both more energy efficient than fluorescent lights, using as much as 75 percent less electricity. They are also more durable in harsh outdoor environments and perform well in rain and snow. They will last you longer and won’t use as much energy, saving you money in the long run.

Timing is everything

Installing outdoor lighting with photocell (daylight detecting) or motion sensors will ensure that your lights are only activated when they’re actually needed, so you don’t waste energy powering the lights when they’re not in use.

Think it through

When you’re first planning your outdoor lighting setup, think carefully about what you want to achieve with your outdoor lighting. Too many homes have driveways that are lit up like an airplane runway with front doors shrouded in shadows. Such ill-planned lighting can cause unnecessary light pollution and waste energy by flooding areas with light that don’t need it. Whether your goals are security or aesthetics, work with an expert to ensure your outdoor lighting design meets those goals.

Keep it clean

Believe it or not, cleaning your light fixtures regularly can improve energy efficiency. Dirt absorbs light, making a dirty light bulb a less efficient light bulb.

Not sure whether your exterior lighting scheme is as efficient as it could be? Contact us to schedule an inspection with an expert Bonfe electrician today.