How To Protect Outdoor Lighting Fixtures from Weather
Outdoor lighting can make your home a more secure place to live. It can also add to the curb appeal of your property, which can increase its market value. Of course, any outdoor lights that you install on your yard will inevitably be exposed to the weather. Fortunately, there are some steps that you can take to minimize exposure to rain, sun or other potential hazards.
Place Outdoor Lights Under a Barrier
The easiest way to protect lights from wind, rain or sun is to place them under an eave or an overhang. Doing so means that any rain that falls will simply hit the overhang and roll off to the ground without making contact with a fixture or associated wiring. It also means that the hot sun will reflect off of the overhand instead of beating down on the fixture, which could cause cracks or other physical damage.
Fixtures Can Be Sealed
Lights that are placed alongside or at the end of your driveway might have to be exposed to the environment. Fortunately, you can seal them to keep them safe from rain or excessive sunlight. Sealing a fixture might also make it possible to keep them safe from pests, pollen or anything else that might cause damage.
Materials Matter
Stainless steel or copper fixtures are among the most durable on the market today. This means that they will last longer with minimal maintenance even when exposed to the harsh weather that can occur in Clearwater.
You can also apply a protective coating to existing lights to make them more resistant to damage regardless of what they are actually made from. Many products these days are rated to put up with moisture, salt and other damage that can be caused by excessive rainfall or humid or salty air.
Consider Solar Lights
Solar fixtures often have less runtime than a traditional light that is hardwired into your home’s electrical system. However, it does carry the advantage of working without the need for wires. Of course, they may not be an ideal solution during periods of cloudy weather or during the shorter winter days.
One potential way to overcome this issue is to install a battery backup to ensure that you get constant light throughout the day. Even with a hybrid solution, you’ll probably spend less on electricity costs without having to devote too much time to repairs or maintenance.
Have Outdoor Fixtures Inspected
Every year, you should have your outdoor light fixtures inspected for wiring or other types of issues. Doing so allows you to spot problems while they are still relatively easy to fix and before secondary issues can develop.
You may also want to consider having an inspection done after a severe weather event. For instance, if your property was struck by lightning, it could cause a short, fray a wire or lead to other problems that might not be obvious right away. High winds or hail could also damage outdoor fixtures or lead to electrical issues that need to be assessed right away.
Routine Cleanings Can Help Too
At least once a year, you should have your lights cleaned to ensure that they shine bright whenever they are on. In addition to a stronger and brighter light, clean fixtures are less likely to corrode, crack or otherwise cause problems. Cleanings can be done either on your own or by a professional depending on how much time and money you have to devote to the project.
If you need help protecting your outdoor fixtures, give the team at Mister Sparky a call today. Remember, when you work with Mister Sparky, you won’t have to put up with any malarky. Instead, you’ll work with a team of friendly professionals who will get the job done in a proper, affordable and timely manner.
Frequently Asked Questions: Protecting Outdoor Lighting from
Weather
What is the simplest way to protect outdoor lights from the elements?
The easiest method is to place fixtures under an eave or overhang. This shields them from direct rain, wind, and sun, reducing the risk of physical damage like cracking or wiring issues.
What if my lights can’t be placed under a covered area?
Fixtures in exposed locations, like along a driveway, can be sealed to protect them from rain, sunlight, pests, and pollen. Sealing is a practical solution when architectural coverage isn’t an option.
Does the material of a fixture make a difference?
Yes. Stainless steel and copper fixtures are among the most durable choices for outdoor use. You can also apply a protective coating to existing fixtures to improve their resistance to moisture, salt, and humidity regardless of what they’re made of.
Are solar lights a good weather-resistant option?
Solar lights eliminate the need for wiring, which reduces one weather-related vulnerability. However, they can underperform during cloudy weather or short winter days. Adding a battery backup can help ensure consistent illumination year-round.
How often should outdoor fixtures be inspected?
At minimum, once a year. You should also schedule an inspection after any severe weather event such as lightning, high winds, or hail since damage to wiring or fixtures isn’t always immediately visible.
Does cleaning outdoor lights actually help protect them?
Yes. Annual cleanings help prevent corrosion and cracking, and keep fixtures shining brighter. Depending on your budget and time, cleanings can be done yourself or by a professional.
