Wall lights are an often underrated type of light. They can be a fantastic addition to a home for a layered lighting scheme. It can be difficult to decide where to place wall lights to maximise the light where you need it most. As well as tying it in with another light source such as downlights or pendant lights, to create layered levels of light.
We discuss the best places to position your wall lights for optimum lighting in your home.
What's The Best Height For Wall Lights?
The most common question when it comes to positioning wall lights is, what's the best height to place them? This can depend on a number of factors. Including the size and style of the light, the proportions of the room and the ambience you are looking for.
As a general rule of thumb the wall light should sit at eye level to avoid glare from the exposed bulbs. To get slightly technical, wall lights should be positioned around 152-170cm above the floor. Multiple wall lights should be placed around 250-300cm apart.
However, if you have a home with a lot of ceiling height then you may want to readjust the positioning. This might also differ in rooms such as a bathroom or bedroom where you may want to position them next to a bed or mirrors.
Where To Place Wall Lights In A Bathroom?
Placing your walls lights at the right height is not a one size fits all measurement for the bathroom. Often wall lights are used either side of a mirror which is perfect for illuminating and using as task lighting.
When situating on either side of a mirror, it is best to place them at around eye level. If using wall light sconces, place them with the centres slightly lower. This will create a perfect position to provide clarity and illumination for those daily tasks. Just ensure to fit suitably IP 44 rated + wall lights for this area.
Where To Place Wall Lights In A Bedroom?
Another exception to the rule is placing wall lights in a bedroom to replace a bedside lamp. If you're using wall lights as a replacement for a bedside lamp, you should place them around shoulder height so they can easily be switched on and off from your bed.
Aside from this, wall lights make a great alternative to ceiling lights as they provide a more ambient touch. As well as adding some depth and decorative style to the room. You could also install a dimmer with the wall lights to create an even gentler ambience when required.
Using Wall Lights As Picture Lights
You may wish to use wall lights to illuminate your artwork below. This is a great way to showcase a piece of art in a gallery or at home. This means lights are suspended above the chosen piece to create the perfect backdrop.
Take a look at our full range of wall lights including IP44 + rated wall lights suitable for use in the bathroom.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We discuss the best places to position your wall lights for optimum lighting in your home. Bedroom, bathroom and living room wall light placement ideas.
It has been announced under government climate plans that the sale of halogen lightbulbs are to be banned in the UK by September. According to the BBC, officials say 'the move will cut 1.26 million tonnes of carbon emissions a year and deliver consumer savings'.
The plan will help expedite the shift to low-energy LED lightbulbs. LED bulbs currently account for about two-thirds of lights now sold in Britain. We take a look at the differences between both halogen and LED, and how to easily make that switch from halogen to LED bulbs.
Halogen Vs LED Bulbs
The primary reason for phasing out halogen bulbs is to cut carbon emissions. A total phase out would be the equivalent of removing more than half a million cars from the UK's roads, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial strategy said.
Therefore, it is no surprise that halogen bulbs are far less energy efficient than their LED counterparts. Whilst the initial investment of LED bulbs and downlights can be more expensive, the ongoing savings in the form of energy saving makes LED downlights a far more cost-effective option.
Just to put that into some numbers, on average 15W LED bulb costs around £0.002 per hour to run. A 70W halogen bulb costs around £0.008 per hour.
Take a look at a full overview on the bulbs here Incandescent vs CFL vs LED vs Halogen Light Bulbs.
How To Switch Over From Halogen To LED Bulbs?
Before you dispose of your halogen bulbs and make the switch to LED, there are a few important factors to consider.
Cap Fitting Requirement
The main piece of information you need when purchasing bulbs is the cap fitting. Light bulbs all have a code to identify their fitting. The letters stand for the name of the fitting and the numbers represent the diameter of the fitting in millimetres.
Your existing bulb will usually display this information somewhere on the bulb, alternatively, check your light fitting for this.
Colour Temperature
The colour temperature of a bulb describes the appearance of its light and is measured by degrees Kelvins on a scale from 1000 to 10000. When you see the number 3000K or 4100K for example, the K stands for Kelvins. Bulbs with a lower temperature will have a warmer light. So a bright, blue/white, cool bulb will have a higher value than a traditional sunset yellow.
If you're not certain of the specific colour temperature of your existing halogen bulb, you should be able to get a good feel of the light when it's on and whether you prefer a brighter, white light or something more orangey.
CRI - Colour Rendering Index
Halogen bulbs can often come with a higher CRI than LED bulbs. Colour rendering index is the measurement of how colours look under a light source when compared with sunlight.
CRI is measured on a scale of 0-100 with 100 being the highest and closest to emulating daylight. High CRI not only lets you see the true colour of objects and décor as they are meant to, but it can also give better contrast which in turn aids tasks where clarity is helpful such as food preparation, applying makeup, reading, artwork or needle craft.
When making the bulb switch opt for high CRI lighting options where possible to ensure you retain the optimum level of lighting and clarity that your home is used to.
Wattage Conversion
Another thing to bear in mind is the LED equivalent of a halogen bulb wattage. LED equivalents wattages can only be approximate. The differing wattages can be down to the colour temperature and quality of the bulbs that are being compared.
Take a look at our full range of LED bulbs and LED downlights. If you need any further help with replacing your halogen to LED bulbs then please do get in touch with our customer services team at Elesi.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]It has been announced under government climate plans that the sale of halogen lightbulbs are to be banned in the UK by September. According to the BBC, officials say ‘the move will cut 1.26 million tonnes of carbon emissions a year and deliver consumer savings’. The plan will help expedite the shift to low-energy LED […]
Teal takes its names from the Eurasian Teal due to the similarly coloured stripe on its head. This popular colour used throughout homes is a cyan-green colour. The colour can be achieved by mixing cyan into a green base.
Teal combines the best of both worlds and can provide a softer hue than other green and blue based colours. We explore the colours that go well with teal that can be used in tandem throughout your interiors.
What Colours Go Well With Teal?
Teal & Pink
Teal and pastel pink are incredibly complementary. Opting for pastel pink with teal with help to create a serene and calming space. But if you're daring, opt for a hot pink and bring the colour in through subtle accents in the room such as home furnishings.
Teal & White
White is a such a classic foundational colour that teal helps to add warmth and colour when paired together. These two colours are perfect for most rooms, especially those designed for rest and relaxation. Teal is commonly worked into a kitchen, especially by fitting teal lights or cabinetry. The colour creates a stark and gorgeous contrast against the white.
Teal & Bronze
Teal works wonderfully with bronze. Especially when interwoven through wallpapers. Another subtle way to pair these colours is to have Bronze sockets and switches in your home. A subtle, yet finished way to enjoy these two colours together.
Teal & Orange
Whilst it could be considered a bold move, teal helps to balance the visual and physical energy of orange. It can be used in varying amounts together in a room. For an understated look mix orange furnishings into the room, such as with cushions and throws. But if you're looking for more of an orange dominance then using orange table lamps or a mirror against teal walls or upholstered furniture can really help to make the colours pop, a zesty look for sure!
Teal & Brown
These colours create a fusion of tranquility and nature. Teal will visually lighten the heaviness of brown, especially if most of your furniture is wooden. It can be used to subtly create warmth, add in a teal rug or paint the walls.
Teal & Yellow
Due to the blue undertones of teal, yellow makes for a great complimentary colour. It's best to use teal as the main foundation colour to avoid yellow becoming overbearing in a space. Throw yellow blankets, pillows, frames and trinkets into the mix to mutually combine the colours.
There's plenty of gorgeous colour combinations for teal if you're looking to dress your home in this tranquil colour.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We explore the colours that go well with teal that can be used in tandem throughout your interiors.
Caring for your socket and switches fixtures will ensure that you can enjoy their finishes for years to come.
All product finishes vary in the level of care and attention that are needed to retain the prime of their finish, whilst other finishes require a little upkeep to help them age with grace. We explore a range of different product finishes and how they can be cared for.
How To Clean Brass?
Brass remains a popular choice in homes as the variety of brass finishes can complement different decor styles. Brass is available in antique/aged brass, polished brass, brushed brass and satin brass.
Before you start cleaning the brass you need to ascertain whether it has an unlaquered or lacquered brass finish which again changes how each finish is maintained. The purpose of lacquer is to prevent tarnishing and it can be polished regularly by using a soft cleaning cloth to remove any stains or fingerprints easily.
If the brass is unlaquered it will patina and age in time with the correct care and maintenance. To remove any discolouration to the finish, use a polish that is specifically designed for brass. Refer to the instructions for the correct application and apply it using a soft cleaning cloth. Use in conjunction with warm water, using the soft, damp cloth to remove any debris, dirt and dust.
Of course, if you prefer you can let the brass age naturally without any interference. By forgoing the polishing, it can allow the fixture to become wonderfully tarnished, sometimes polishing it could restore it to a new like state which defeats the object of letting it age in the first place.
How To Care For Copper?
Copper is another incredibly hot interior trend which shows no sign of letting up. The fixtures that are made from real copper will require more careful attention than those that are made to look to that effect.
Over time a warm metal such as copper can lose its lustre. When it comes to cleaning copper you need to be careful that you don't scratch the surface of it and remove the finish. Like brass, it's worth checking first to see if the finish has been sealed.
To prevent tarnish and to clean copper, a really simple solution of lemon juice and salt will remove tarnish easily with a soft cloth. As a preventative measure after cleaning, you can apply a light coat of baby oil or mineral oil by wiping over it. The oil helps to seal the copper from air getting to it which slows down the tarnishing process. Copper starts tarnishing as soon as it hits the air after rinsing, wiping oil over the top will slow this process down so it doesn't have to be cleaned and polished as often.
How To Care For Rose Gold?
Because of the copper element, over time rose gold develops a deeper colour which makes this finish more valuable. Due to this, when cleaning and caring for the rose gold finish you don't want to remove this natural colour.
Don't use harsh chemicals, opt for a specially-formulated cleaner and apply with a soft, damp cloth.
How To Care For Chrome?
Chrome is a resilient finish that is one of the easier finishes to care for. Polished chrome requires much more maintenance, especially on sockets and switches which get appraised so often. Brushed chrome is a much easier finish of the two to care for.
This metal is susceptible to damage if it comes into contact with harsh chemicals. As dirt and marks can show up on polished chrome easily, you want to regularly clean this. Most of this can easily be lifted from the surface and cleaned with a single compound of soap and water with a damp, soft cloth. When you finish cleaning the chrome, you should also finish with a polish to retain the shine.
How To Care For Black Nickel?
A black nickel finish can easily be maintained with using mild soapy water and a soft cloth. A chrome polish can also be used afterwards if required. If your nickel items are exposed to the elements then they will need further regular maintenance. If you live in an exposed coastal location then regular cleaning and polishing will be necessary to retain the finish.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Caring for your socket and switches fixtures will ensure that you can enjoy their finishes for years to come. All product finishes vary in the level of care and attention that are needed to retain the prime of their finish, whilst other finishes require a little upkeep to help them age with grace. We explore […]
Green pairs incredibly well with a multitude of colours. The colour has grown in popularity in recent years, with dark green being seen as a mature colour that bodes well in living rooms, kitchens and bedroom spaces.
Green works well as an accent colour or used as a pivotal colour in a room. In this article, we explore the colours that go well with green.
What Colours Go Well With Green?
Green is one of those versatile colours that depending on the shade can complement the right colours very well.
Green & White
The simplest colour combination that just can't be knocked is green and white. Crisp white provides a perfect backdrop for hues of green. Green can be incorporated with subtle accents through furnishings such as pillows, bedding, chairs and decorative ornaments. This fresh colour combination is well suited to contemporary homes.
Green & Brown
A subtle sage green has been a hot colour for kitchens in recent years. This hue of green pairs perfectly with natural wood and brown. You might typically get sage green cabinetry with natural wooden surfaces such as butcher block countertops. This is a very much country inspired colour combination that is perfect for neutral spaces.
Green & Pink
As they say, opposites attract and this couldn't be any more accurate for green and pink. For those with a bold appetite for interiors, this light and airy colour combination work incredibly well together when used correctly. Pink can be used as a powerful backdrop with a sea foam green used through furniture such as a velvet sofa or armchair. Whilst they're a bold pairing, when used correctly it can give a softer look to your ensemble.
Green & Navy Blue
Emerald green and navy blue are two deep hues that compliment each other well in an interior setting. This chic and stylish combo both accent and offset the other with their deep yet vibrant tones.
If you want to subtly illuminate your room, then this pair of colours will help to add depth and character to the space.
Green & Grey
Teaming grey with subtle accents of green helps to create an incredibly executive and suave look and feel. The best thing is that green can complement pretty much any shade of green. We see this colour combination very often in the corporate workwear space, owing to the fact that this is a very sophisticated and well put together colour match.
Green & Orange
Perhaps the boldest of them all, tangerine and fern green are out of the box colours that surprisngly aren't overwhelming when teamed together. You do need the right period of property for this pairing to work, but executed well and it can look sensational.
Green is a multi versatile colour that can go with practically every colour when you choose the right hue of green.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Green works well as an accent colour or used as a pivotal colour in a room. In this article, we explore the colours that go well with green.
Due to the advancement of technology, sockets have probably had one of the most sophisticated jumps in the power of delivering a fast charge to devices. Nowadays they can provide users with a much quicker charging time. Providing reliability and speed which is ultimately what everyone desires in their fast paced lives.
However, there are many current models of USB sockets on the market that do not deliver a fast charge. Furthermore, not all chargers do support the various standards. We explore what fast charge means and the new industry led USB C sockets breaking through the market.
What Is Fast Charge?
The output of a charge from a socket is measured in both amperage and voltage. Therefore, in order to boost a charge, manufacturers will usually boost the amperage, or vary the voltage to increase the amount of potential energy.
Fast charging devices will usually bump the voltage up 5V, 9V, 12V, 20V and beyond, or increase amperage to 5amp and above.
However, your device will ultimately decide how fast it charges as its charging circuit is designed for. The device needs to be compatible and up to date to take advantage of the fast charge functionality.
Check your devices to see what your phone supports, then look at your plug adapter to see if it supports the same standard. If you want to see whether your devices are benefitting from fast charge technology, there are many apps you can use on your phone to test it such as Ampere.
What Are USB C Sockets?
USB C sockets are the most up to date on the market, dynamically boosting the power delivery.
USB sockets feature 2 ports, a USB A port on one side and the USB C on the alternate side. The USB C port is where the magic happens. A standard USB A delivery is capped at around 3,100milliamp, whilst a USB C will deliver a much higher milliamp. The USB C can still deliver much lower demand if needed. If you use both of the ports at once (USB A and C), then this ampage will be shared across the devices.
Due to the USB C's ability to deliver a high output, it can charge modern laptops through it too. As previously mentioned, the device is what will determine the speed of the charge. The device needs to be compatible and up to date in order to take advantage of the functionality.
There isn't anything that will currently deliver much higher output than the USB C unless technology rapidly changes. As it stands, the conventional USB A port won't be able to keep up with the ever advancing technology of devices unless the technology of it changes.
The future of fast charging is with USB C sockets. Whilst providing efficient charging times, following the redundancy of bulky plugs for USB C charging it will eliminate waste from manufactures & households. Offering a universal solution that is reliable, effective and ultimately, quick.
Take a look at our brand new range of USB A + C sockets.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Due to the advancement of technology, sockets have probably had one of the most sophisticated jumps in the power of delivering a fast charge to devices. Nowadays they can provide users with a much quicker charging time. Providing reliability and speed which is ultimately what everyone desires in their fast paced lives. However, there are […]
Creating an effective lighting plan in your bathroom is of utmost importance. It's the one room that can warrant different levels of light during the day.
The lighting should be adaptable from bright task lighting for daily tasks such as shaving or applying makeup. Whilst providing ambient mood lighting for those relaxing moments. Striking the right balance is key to ensure you get the most out of your bathroom space.
Which Lights Are Best For The Bathroom?
There's lots of functional, and stylish bathroom lighting ideas to choose from. We explore the different best types of bathroom lighting that will allow you to enjoy the space whatever the need.
Downlights
Downlights are one of the most popular and best options for lighting a bathroom. They're functional, suitably IP rated and they can provide effective task lighting to suit your exacting requirements.
The bathroom comprises of different zones which highlights which areas are susceptible to moisture, and the likelihood of water being around the product.
Downlights and lights in general that are rated to IP 67 + are suitable for all zones in the bathroom, as they are total immersion proof. All other zones in the bathroom can be fitted with downlights which hold an IP45 + rating.
Tiltable downlights are a great choice for dotting around a mirror as they can provide effective task lighting when optimum light is required. Opting for high CRI downlights will provide accurate levels of lighting, allowing you to see the true representation of colour in your bathroom. For tasks such as applying makeup and shaving, this will make the task at hand so much easier.
Whilst you might need bright lighting during the day, you're more than likely going to want to set some ambient levels of lighting when you need downtime. This can easily be achieved by installing a dimmer switch, giving you control over the brightness of your lighting. You just need to ensure that your LED lights are dimmable to avoid compatibility issues.
Wall Lights
If you're looking to layer lighting in your bathroom, wall lights are an effective and ambient way to do this. They can also help add that decorative edge to a bathroom when used in conjunction with downlights or ceiling lights.
Wall lights are often used on either side of a mirror to create task lighting. The Sheraton brass Art Deco style wall light and Flaxman bulkhead wall lights are stunning fittings that would look fantastic in a bathroom. These robust wall lights are suitably IP rated for bathroom use too.
You might also choose to utilise wall lights around the room. This is effective when layering light and for creating an ambient space. Keeping the wall lights on or using them in conjunction with a dimmer switch to lower the levels of lighting to your needs.
What's The Best Colour Temperature of Bulbs For The Bathroom?
Once you've chosen your light fittings, don't fall down at the last hurdle. Choosing the right colour temperature for your bulb is particularly important if you have no natural lighting in your bathroom.
Whilst colour preferences are personal, i.e you might prefer a more orangey vintage glow to create ambience, or you might want super bright lighting for maximum precision. Generally speaking, the best colour temperature in the bathroom is anywhere between 2700K-3000K. This is a warmer and cosier light which people find familiar and comfortable.
However, as the role of the room changes during the day, the colour temperature you need may also change. In instances like this, our colour changing downlights are a fantastic choice. The Front Facing Colour Changing (CCT) Switch provides you with a choice of Warm White 3000K, Daylight 4000K and Cool White 6000K. With the dimmable settings, it puts you in complete control of your setup for whatever you require.
Take a look at our full range of downlights and bathroom lights to help you find the best bathroom lights for you.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We explore the different types of lights that are best for the bathroom that will allow you to enjoy the space whatever the need.
As garden and outdoor gatherings are the new norm, there's never been a better time to select the best outdoor lighting for your space.
With a focus on practicality and aesthetics, we explore the best outdoor lighting fixtures that will illuminate your space throughout the seasons.
Wall Lights
Wall lights remain one of the most popular and best outdoor light fixtures due to their versatility and practicality. Depending on the outdoor space you have, you'll be able to find one of ample size to meet your exacting requirements.
As most wall lights are also mains powered, using LED lights with them will ensure that you can keep electricity costs low. Whilst helping the environment too. Solar powered lights are a popular choice in gardens but they do not provide light consistency throughout the seasons.
Marlborough Eyelid Bulkhead Nickel Wall Light
For a smaller space, the Marlborough is a fantastic choice as it can be fitted horizontally or vertically. Hand crafted in solid brass, the Marlborough eyelid bulkhead delivers the presence of a traditional nautical bulkhead. Yet when completed in a refined nickel finish its allure appeals to both the Art Deco and Contemporary eras.
This wall light is IP66 rated so it can be used on all exterior surfaces without risk of corrosion or damage. Available also in a brass finish.
Carlisle Lacquered Brass IP66 Web Prismatic Glass Wall Light
Practical, robust and aesthetically pleasing, the Carlisle is beautifully retro, with a nautical twist. Suitably IP rated for outdoor use, this light will provide a gorgeous glow in a garden. This robust unit will last for years to come. It would be a great investment for part of an outdoor lighting scheme.
Kemp Polished Solid Brass Nautical Wall Light
The Kemp is one of the best lighting choices for an outdoor space. Suited to a classical, industrial or nautical style of décor. This works as a sconce wall light and perfectly complements our Kemp Ceiling light. Ideal for layering light throughout a garden. A neat and compact light that can fit on the smallest exposed areas.
Hopkin Polished Solid Brass IP66 Prismatic Glass Wall Light
A real beauty, the Hopkin is a stunning lighting choice for an outdoor space. Offering full protection to the elements and a gorgeous glow. The etched glass and aged brass finish give this IP66 rated ceiling light a vintage style. Perfectly suited to industrial décor. The darkened finish on both the metal frame and glass cover give this light an antique appearance.
Ceiling Lights
This type of outdoor light is a fantastic option for your lighting scheme if you have minimal space available or no space on walls for lighting. Ceiling lights can be positioned on the under-hang of a garage, porch or house.
Kemp Polished Brass Ceiling Light
Ideal for using in tandem with the Kemp wall light, neat and stylish, these beautifully industrial, nautical style ceiling lights come with clear glass, perfect for Edison style decorative LED bulbs.
Take a look at our full range of outdoor lighting to find the best fixture for your space.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]As garden and outdoor gatherings are the new norm, there’s never been a better time to select the best outdoor lighting for your space.
Whether you have a small patio area or a large garden, adding outdoor lighting will help to lift and add character. Whilst offering versatility and practicality to the space.
To help get your garden summer ready and suitably lit for all the seasons, we take a look at the types of garden and outdoor lighting ideas for your home.
Outdoor Wall Lights
Incredibly popular in gardens, outdoor wall lights are a versatile and practical choice. Easy to install, they can be positioned on any exterior wall surface. Including on either side of a door to welcome your guests, whilst offering a practical safety feature.
Wall lights are available in a wide range of styles to suit your home decor tastes and styles. When selecting outdoor and garden lights, ensure that they are suitably IP rated for outdoor use.
The Flaxman wall light is a neat, rounded wall light that is ideal for so many spaces. Ideal for lighting doorways and walls around your garden. Also available in a nickel finish to suit your decor style.
If you're looking for something slightly larger to project light in your garden, the Carlisle Grid Prismatic Glass Lacquered Brass wall light is beautifully designed. A stunning, nautical addition to a space. You could dot a couple of these around your garden to create a flow of light.
For a timeless and classy look, the Kingly Nickel brings a classic motorcycle-esque look. Perfectly suited for outdoor use, and also works well in the bathroom.
If you lack wall space, the Marlborough is another great option, allowing you to position it horizontally or vertically. A sophisticated redesign of the original nautical bulkhead. Featuring thick prismatic glass and IP66 rating, this stunning wall light will lend understated grandeur to any outdoor space.
Ceiling Lights
These lights might be better suited to your outdoor lighting plan depending on what you want to achieve, and the surfaces available to you.
This type of light is ideal for placing under porches and garages, whilst providing practicality to the space.
These beautifully industrial, nautical style ceiling lights come with clear glass, perfect for Edison style decorative LED bulbs. They work well layering with other lighting sources such as wall lights for a cohesive plan.
Security Lights
Security lights or floodlights are down to personal choice but are a great way to provide lighting and security to the area.
There tends to be a compromise on style when it comes to floodlights, but there are many different options on the market. As floodlights produce a lot of light, they can wash out other sources of light. Do bear this in mind when choosing lights for your garden.
Downlights & Spotlights
These types of lights are fantastic for task lighting and creating a cohesive source of lighting. Spotlights are great for lighting pathways and outdoor areas. Downlights can be positioned under roofs and garages to illuminate at a higher level. As long as they are suitably rated for outdoor use, they make an excellent choice for outdoor lighting.
Solar Lighting
Solar lighting remains a popular choice for outdoor lighting as it can be relatively fuss free and does not require mains electricity.
Whilst this makes it a cheaper option, it does rely on adequate levels of sunlight during the day to work when it's dark. Therefore it is not the most reliable source of outdoor lighting.
Head to our full range of garden and outdoor lighting to get your garden summer ready.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]To help get your garden summer ready and suitably lit for all the seasons, we take a look at the types of garden and outdoor lighting ideas for your home.
Whether you're looking to refresh your garden space for Spring, or you're in the stages of a complete renovation, lighting is a key aspect to take into account when making changes to your outdoor space.
With the easing of lockdown and summer on the way, we can all breathe a sigh of relief that we'll be spending much more time outdoors, and in company.
To help you get your garden summer ready, we explore the different ways you can light your garden effectively.
Get The Correct IP Rated Lights
The first step to choosing lighting for your garden is to ensure they are suitably IP rated for outdoor use. If you are using lights under a covering such as a porch they need to be IP rated 44 +. For use in fully exposed areas, the lights need to be IP rated 66 +. This will ensure they are appropriately protected from dirt and moisture.
Plan Your Garden Lighting Design Early
If you are in the midst of a complete garden renovation, you should use this opportunity to plan your garden lighting design before the project has started. Most cabling will need to go under planting and hard landscaping. just like an interior renovation, you want to ensure you do everything at the right time so as not to cause problems and additional work further down the line.
Use A Combination of Light Sources
An easy way to add character and interest to a garden in a light scheme is by using a variety of different type lights. Use a combination to highlight texture, depth and drama in walls, fences, steps, patio edges, foliage, trees and water.
Think less is more, as you don't want to over light the area. You could use wall lights in conjunction with downlights to light a path or by using candles and lanterns to create further atmosphere.
Opt For LED Lighting
Where possible, opt for LED garden lighting. LED lighting is the most energy efficient light source. They'll help you save money whilst helping the environment around you too. Because they're energy efficient, they have a much longer lifespan than their halogen counterparts.
Security Lights
As we touched on in our post on types of outdoor lighting, security lights are a fantastic way to securely light your home, offering you peace of mind. However, you do need to be careful that they don't disrupt the rest of your lighting plan. Because floodlights are incredibly bright, they will normally wash out any other lighting in the vicinity.
There's nothing wrong with having an effective lighting setup and floodlights. But you might want to reconsider their positioning, and if they have time delays.
These tips should help you to effectively light your garden. Take a look at our full range of IP66 outdoor lights for more inspiration.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]To help you get your garden summer ready, we explore the different ways you can light your garden effectively.