LED landscape and outdoor lighting have been gaining in popularity over the last 5 or so years, but there continue to be misconceptions about what LED is and what it looks like.
When visiting potential clients and discussing lighting options, we often hear “oh, I don’t want LED lighting, it looks blue.” If someone had told us that a few years ago, we probably would have agreed. We are dedicated to designing lighting systems that make your property looks its best, and blue lighting wouldn’t cut it for us. LED technology, however, has come a long way and the white/blue light is now a warm white color.
LED is a great option for many outdoor lighting applications. It is more energy-efficient and the bulbs do last longer than the more commonly used halogen bulbs, saving you money. LED fixtures are a great idea when it comes to difficult installations especially. For example, moonlighting includes lights mounted high in the trees shining downward. LED fixtures would work well in this instance as the bulbs last longer and require less maintenance.
Another misconception we hear often is that to have a new LED outdoor lighting system, existing systems have to be completely scrapped and all new fixtures have to be installed. Again, this may have been the case several years ago, but isn’t anymore. Depending on the quality and current state of your system, the fixtures can be retrofitted to LED lighting. An outdoor lighting company should be able to work with your existing fixtures, adding new bulbs and drivers to convert them to LED.
Customizing Your LED Experience
LED lighting is all about personalization and flexibility. Today's market offers a plethora of choices, and understanding these can help homeowners make the best decisions for their outdoor spaces.
- Dimmability: Unlike the early iterations of LED lights that came with fixed brightness, modern LEDs offer dimmability. This feature allows homeowners to adjust the light intensity according to the ambiance they want to create, be it a subtle glow for a romantic dinner or bright illumination for a backyard party.
- Smart Integration: Many LED systems now come with smart features, allowing integration with home automation systems. This means you can control the brightness, color, and even color temperature of your outdoor lights using your smartphone or voice commands.
- RGB and Beyond: RGB LEDs, which combine red, green, and blue light sources, can produce a wide spectrum of colors. For those who love to frequently change the look and feel of their outdoor spaces, these LEDs are a game-changer. Some advanced versions also include a white light source, further expanding the range of colors and allowing for finer adjustments in color temperature.
- Beam Angle and Direction: LEDs provide flexibility not just in terms of color and brightness but also in the direction and spread of the light. Depending on the fixture and lens used, you can opt for a narrow spotlight or a broad floodlight. This can be particularly useful in highlighting specific architectural or landscaping features.
- Environmental Benefits: It's essential to remember that while personalizing your outdoor experience, you're also making an eco-friendly choice. LEDs, with their energy efficiency, not only reduce your electricity bills but also contribute to a smaller carbon footprint.
- Upgrading Existing Systems: For those who already have outdoor lighting in place but wish to switch to LEDs, retrofitting is an option. Many LED bulbs are designed to fit into traditional fixtures, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective.
In the realm of outdoor lighting, LEDs offer an unparalleled combination of flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability. By understanding the multitude of options available and considering the specific requirements of your space, you can create an outdoor environment that's both enchanting and functional. If in doubt, always consult with lighting professionals who can guide you through the process and ensure the best outcomes for your investment.
If you have questions on LED or other outdoor lighting technology, please contact your local Outdoor Lighting Perspectives office.