Step Lights

How to Utilize Outdoor Step Lighting

Looking for the best outdoor step lighting? If so, you are in the right place. Step lights are considered to be an integral part of every outdoor space where there are steps. Step lighting systems not only serve the all-important function of providing lighting but also double up as decorative agents and in most instances, greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of an outdoor setting. However, the problem usually comes in when selecting the best light fixture for outside step lights, which is mostly due to the large number of fixtures available in the market. However with a little guidance, this task might be quite easy.

What is the best lighting fixture for step lighting?

When it comes to lighting fixtures, there are many different types of fixtures available in the market. However, out of all these fixtures, there is one particular category of light fixtures which stands out and is considered the best when it comes to outdoor step lighting: LED lights.

LED light fixtures are considered to be the best when it comes to outdoor step lighting due to a number of reasons. For starters, LED fixtures have the capacity to produce just the right amount of light for step lighting while at the same time being small enough to snugly fit within the small compartments for step lighting. Some other features that make LED light fixtures the best for step lighting in an outside setting include:

• Long life: long life stands out as one of the most notable benefits associated with using LED lights for step lighting. LED lights have one of the longest life spans with some lighting systems going up to 100,000 lighting hours. As such, installing outdoor led step lights is considered as a convenience since there will be no need for frequent changing of light bulbs.
• Energy efficiency: LED lights are low voltage and have an estimated energy efficiency of over 70 percent when compared to other types of light bulbs. As a norm, step lights are usually on most of the time and as a result of which, the energy cost can be quite high. By installing LED step lights, one can be able to significantly cut down on the energy cost.
• Durable: as a norm, most light fixtures tend to fail under extreme hot or cold conditions: but not LED bulbs and light fixtures. Thanks to their sturdy design and long life span, LED systems can withstand extreme cold and hot conditions without failing and as such are considered the best for the outside lighting of steps.
• Frequent switching: LED lights brighten up instantly when switched on and frequent on and off switching does not affect the life span. This makes LED light most suitable for automated outer step lighting where the light is switched on whenever movement is detected.
• Flexibility: LED lighting systems incorporate an aspect of flexibility. From dynamic control of light intensity through dimmer switch to a wide selection of colors, the flexibility in design is quite limitless with LED fixtures.

LED step lighting outdoor fixtures have practically dominated the world of outside step lighting and are considered as the best when it comes to recessed lighting for steps. However, there are some other viable options when it comes to this type of lighting though most of these options have some slight disadvantages:

• Incandescent
• Fluorescent
• Halogen
• Xenon

Most of these light fixtures tend to be somehow large; some are not sturdy enough to withstand harsh temperature variations while others such as incandescent light sources consume too much energy.

Outdoor LED Lighting Tips for Steps

When it comes to LED lighting for outer steps, there are a number of tips and ideas that are considered as best practice and can produce remarkable results when employed.

Making Use of a Dimmer Switch

A dimmer switch is considered as a great idea when it comes to step lighting. Dimmer switches give an individual the freedom to adjust the brightness of the LED light fixtures and by doing so also set the mood within a certain setting. As such, it would be in your best interest to incorporate this type of switch within your outdoor lighting setup.

Color Variation

With LED lights, you have the option of choosing any color you want for your lighting system. Use this to your advantage by choosing a color that matches with your decor or theme you might wish to create. For instance, a warm yellow colored light fixture will go a long way in creating a welcoming environment or mood.

Decorate with the Fixture

There are literally hundreds of fixtures that can be used to not only complement a theme but also better bring out a theme. For instance if you are interested in a modern contemporary theme, there are quite a number of fixtures such as the architectural bronze fixture that can help you achieve this look.

Louvers or Lenses

When shopping for LED light fixtures, you have the option of either going for louvers or lenses. Louvers and lenses usually help to diffuse the light while at the same time protect the light source from being accidentally damaged. As a norm, lenses are recommended for a contemporary look while louvers are best cut out for a traditional laid back look.

Consider the Ambience

As a rule, the step lighting for an outdoor setup should not stick out like as a sore thumb but blend in seamlessly with the ambience of the surrounding. To achieve this, it is usually advisable to make use of light color and the type of design used to get the best results.

Picking a Finish

The finishing of an LED light fixture and cover also matters. Try matching the finishing to a particular setting so as to achieve the best results. For instance, if the step setting is made from concrete try utilizing a cover that matches to the surrounding.

At we gotlites.com, we have a wide range of LED fixtures that are guaranteed to address your every need. From high-end designer fixtures to customized fixtures, you will be spoilt for choice. Contact us today for help finding the perfect step lights for your home.