According to a recent Mr. Electric survey, one in 12 United States homeowners surveyed do not have outdoor lighting for their house. As the days get shorter, adding or upgrading outdoor lighting can help homeowners live their best outdoor life all yearlong.

However, there are a few hazards that ruin your al fresco free time. Here are five tips you can follow this fall.

Add Security

Well-planned outdoor lighting accomplishes two things. First, it safely and comfortably extends your usable living space. Second, it deters intruders from prowling your property. To pull off this double duty, pay special attention to ensuring all pathways, social spaces and entrances are illuminated.

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Instead of motion-activated lighting, consider an always-on approach. This can be a better deterrent and thanks to LED bulbs, leaving a few outdoor lights on doesn’t have to cost a lot or create a lot of heat.

For Outdoor-Use

Only use bulbs, fixtures, cords and outlets specifically rated for outdoor use. Fortunately, with the near-infinite range of outdoor lighting styles on the market, you’ll never have to sacrifice on aesthetics. Choosing correctly rated equipment can enhance the appeal of your property, highlighting architectural features and landscaping focal points, without risking failure, fire or other calamities.

GFCI Outlets

Ground fault circuit interrupter outlets will shut off power almost instantly if any plugged-in devices contact water. GFCI outlets have only been required in homes since 1971, according to the National Fire Protection Association. For homes built before then, call an electrician.

Risky Placement

Unless specifically designed for it, outdoor lights shouldn’t be directly on grass. Prone to being either wet or tinder dry, adding electricity to grass just isn’t a smart move. Make sure wiring isn’t under anything highly flammable, such as mulch or woodchips. Experienced electricians can help find safe solutions, such as installing directly on concrete or in gravel beds.

Maximum Wattage

Screwing a 100-watt bulb into a fixture with a 75-watt maximum will, at best, waste your money on bulb replacements. You’re also likely to cause permanent damage to the fixture itself. Steer clear of these issues by choosing a bulb where the wattage is equal to or less than the fixture’s maximum.

Call for help

Any time you’re unsure about your outdoor lighting safety, get in touch with an expert, such as your local Mr. Electric. With the combination of its experience and your vision for easy outdoor living, the future can’t help but look bright.

Visit mrelectric.com/lighting-services for more information.

This article is courtesy of Brandpoint.

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