There are many different types of landscape lighting to choose from, ranging from solar lanterns to decorative pathway lights. Where you place the lights has a huge impact on how they enhance your home’s curb appeal, and so does the maintenance that you provide them. Here’s how to take care of them so they keep your home’s exterior looking inviting and attractive even after dark.
Wipe Down the Lenses to Remove Dirt and Grime
Your outdoor light fixtures are in a constant battle with pollen, dirt and hard water spots. When this gunk builds up on the lenses, it can dim the lighting, making your landscaping less visible at nighttime. Taking time to wipe down the lenses once every couple of months is an excellent way to ensure maximum brightness and visibility. Just be sure to use a microfiber cloth rather than a scrub brush so you don’t accidentally scratch the lens surface.
Trim Back Shrubbery and Overgrown Plants
Nothing tanks a home’s nighttime charm faster than premium accent lights suffocating behind an overgrown jungle of weeds and limbs. This not only detracts from a home’s curb appeal because you can’t see the landscaping, but it also results in safety hazards when the lights can’t properly illuminate walkways and sidewalks. Dedicating just a few minutes every few weeks to trimming back the overgrown shrubbery and tree branches is the best way to prevent this problem. As you do your trimming, be sure to research the best pruning techniques for each type of plant. You don’t want to use aggressive pruning methods when selective pruning would work better and keep the plant healthier.
Check the Fixture Leads for Water Intrusion
One of the worst enemies of outdoor lighting is water intrusion, and this can easily happen when a fixture’s waterproof seal becomes loose or a rubber gasket is dry-rotted. When you see water droplets or condensation inside the fixture, this is a clear sign that moisture has made its way into the housing and needs immediate attention to avoid electrical damage. If you let the problem persist, it may eventually result in a short circuit, causing the lights to constantly flicker or shut off. You can often replace waterproof seals and gaskets using basic hand tools. Alternatively, consider hiring a professional electrician if the fixture has damaged wiring or corroded connections.
The time you spend today taking care of your outdoor lighting can go a long way in preventing future problems that detract from your home’s curb appeal. Staying proactive against cloudy lenses, choking weeds and sneaky water intrusion ensures your property always looks its absolute best when darkness falls. When you need lighting services in Rochester, MN, contact Paxton Electric.
