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Should you leave landscape lighting on all night?

Posted by Joseph Forman on

With the high rate of break-ins in California, it's understandable that homeowners may want to take extra precautions to protect their homes. One common measure that many people take is leaving their porch lights on all night as a way to deter potential burglars. However, the effectiveness of this strategy is still up for debate. While some burglars claim that it is a deterrent, others say that it doesn't make a significant difference. It's also important to note that the majority of burglaries actually occur during the day, not at night. Ultimately, homeowners should consider a variety of safety measures to protect their homes, including using a combination of different types of outdoor safety lighting, such as motion-activated lights and floodlights.

Landscape lighting can make a big difference in the look and feel of your outdoor space. But one question that often arises is whether or not it is safe to leave your landscape lighting on all night. Here is a guide to porch light safety, so you can make an informed decision.

First, it is important to note that leaving your landscape lighting on all night may not be the best idea for a few reasons. One major reason is that it can be a safety hazard. According to Hunker, leaving your porch lights on all night can create the impression that you are not home, as most burglaries occur during the day when lighting is not a factor anyway. Furthermore, leaving your porch lights on all night is not an environmentally friendly practice, and it can also increase your electricity bill.

That being said, there are still situations in which you may want to leave your landscape lighting on all night. For example, if you are hosting an outdoor event or you live in an area with limited lighting and security, leaving your landscape lighting on all night can be a good idea. In these cases, it is important to make sure that your lighting is properly installed and that it is safe to use.

Low Voltage Landscape Lights



To ensure that your landscape lighting is safe to use, it is important to follow some basic guidelines. This Old House recommends using low voltage landscape lighting, as it is safer to work with and less costly to install than 120-volt systems. Additionally, it is important to make sure that your lighting is placed strategically to highlight your home's architectural features and draw attention to prized plantings and trees. Finally, it is essential to take advantage of multiple layers when placing your landscape lighting to create optimal lighting of a certain object or space.

In conclusion, the decision to leave your landscape lighting on all night ultimately depends on your individual situation. While there are certain situations where it may be a good idea, it is important to consider the potential safety hazards and environmental impact before making your decision. With proper installation and strategic placement, you can enjoy the benefits of landscape lighting while also staying safe and environmentally conscious.

-by Rich Ross, California Electric


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