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HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE, LIGHTING

Lowering Your Bills: When Are Electricity Rates the Highest?

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It’s frustrating to open your electric bill and see a jump in your utility charges. You want to know why the electric company is charging more when your usage hasn’t changed. Several reasons may explain this jump in your bill.

Electric companies often charge more during periods of peak electricity usage. They do so to balance supply and demand on the grid. The company charges more for electricity when use spikes upward. This increase in energy bills has led many people to look into solar companies near me to cut their energy costs. Why do prices increase at times?

Weekday Afternoons Are Most Expensive

Weekdays from around noon to early evening tend to see the highest electricity demand as homes and businesses are fully powered up. Usage then declines in the late evenings and overnight when fewer lights, appliances, and devices are running. Based on this fairly predictable pattern, some electric companies have introduced “time of use” rate plans that charge more per kilowatt-hour during peak afternoon hours and less during nights and weekends. The differential between the highest and lowest rates within a time-of-use plan can be substantial.

People might assume homes aren’t using as much power during these periods. Many individuals are at home or school. This doesn’t mean the homes aren’t using electricity, however. Men and women want to come home to a comfortable temperature, so HVAC systems continue to run throughout the day. This usage puts a demand on the electrical grid even as businesses are using more electricity to keep their locations at the desired temperature.

Summertime Brings Increased Air Conditioning Load

Electricity usage and rates also follow seasonal trends. The summer months of June through September feature the greatest demand in areas where air conditioning is widely used to cope with hot and humid weather. Running air conditioners for many hours per day puts considerable strain on the electric grid. Utilities often struggle to meet the heightened loads, meaning they must utilize more costly generating capacity. These extra expenses get passed along to customers through higher per-kilowatt-hour charges or surcharges during the summer.

Similar issues could be seen in winter when the temperature drops. People will run their HVAC systems more to keep their homes warm. This increased usage could strain the electric grid, leading to higher energy prices.

Extreme Weather Events Strain the Grid

Spikes in electricity prices can also occur when extreme hot or cold weather events happen that drive up heating and cooling use all at once. For example, an intense heat wave or an unusually frigid cold snap can drastically boost the demand on utilities to power homes and offices. When demand starts to approach or exceed available supply, power reliability declines for the grid as a whole. Utilities then often raise rates very quickly under these emergency conditions to reduce demand and encourage conservation behaviors. Governments may also institute temporary bans on certain electricity uses until the weather crisis passes. Nobody likes for this to happen, but it is sometimes necessary during extremes to protect grid integrity.

Weekday afternoon hours tend to have the highest regular peak usage. Summer also brings higher demand for cooling and more strain on the overall electric infrastructure, although winter can bring about increased demand. Extreme weather events can force utilities to impose exceptional rate increases or restrictions when the grid is under duress coping with spiking energy consumption. Understanding when and why electricity tends to be more expensive allows customers to plan and budget accordingly while doing what they can to shift usage to off-peak periods.

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HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE, LIGHTING

How Electrical Wiring Works

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Are you looking to refresh your understanding of electrical work? Wondering about the basics? Exploring the how of electrical wiring is a great first step if you’re looking to learn about electrical work.

You won’t need any experience. It’s also easy to get started if you’ve got a basic understanding of electricity.

Ready to learn the ins and outs of making electricity work? If so, read on! We talk about how electrical wiring works.

The Basics of Electrical Wiring

Electrical wiring is like the highway system that delivers electricity to our homes and workplaces. It’s what powers our lights, gadgets, and appliances. Understanding how it works is essential for everyone.

Think of electrical wiring as a set of roads for electricity. It all starts at a power plant or electrical grid. Electricity there gets sent through big power lines to substations.

These substations turn it into lower-voltage electricity and send it to our homes and offices. This will be through a web of wires hidden behind walls and ceilings. These wires lead to our electrical outlets, switches, and devices, making everything work.

Conductors and Insulators

To grasp electrical wiring, you need to know about conductors and insulators. Conductors are materials that let electricity flow through them easily.

Copper and aluminum wires are good conductors. This is because they allow electricity to move without much resistance. This means less energy will get lost as heat.

Meanwhile, insulators are like traffic barriers for electricity. Materials like plastic, rubber, and wood are insulators because they resist the flow of electricity.

We use these materials to cover and protect wires. This prevents electricity from escaping and keeps us safe from shocks.

Circuits and Pathways

Imagine electrical circuits as maps that guide electricity where it needs to go. A circuit is like a closed loop or a path for electricity to travel through. It has three parts:

  • A power source
  • Conductors
  • Things that use electricity

When you flip a switch, you’re completing a circuit. This allows electricity to flow from the power source, through the wires, and into the device. Circuits are typically designed to keep us safe and make sure electricity flows.

Circuit breakers and fuses are like emergency exits. They stop the flow of electricity if there’s too much or something goes wrong. Understanding circuits helps ensure everything works correctly and safely.

Types of Wiring

There are many types of electrical wiring for different jobs. Two common types are “Romex” and “BX” wiring. Romex wiring uses copper wires and plastic insulation. It’s often used in homes because it’s easy to work with.

BX wiring, on the other hand, uses metal-clad cables with a metal sheath, making it more durable. It’s used in places where wires might get damaged, like factories.

Choosing the right wiring depends on where you’re using it and what the rules say. It’s like picking the right tool for the job. For more on your options, you can check out websites like Long View Lighting. 

Learn How Electrical Wiring Works

Electrical wiring is essential for a functioning, safe home. Learning how wiring works requires some effort but is critical to success.

With the right direction and focus, anyone can become an electrical wiring expert. There are tons of resources online that can help you even further.

For more content like this, be sure to head on over to our website. We put out articles like this daily, so you’ll surely find something interesting!

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HOME DESIGN, LIGHTING

How to Design an Open-concept Floor Plan That Maximizes Natural Light

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Home design has evolved tremendously, leading to an increasing preference for open-concept floor plans. These plans, particularly David Weekley floor plans, help to maximize natural light, making spaces feel brighter, more spacious, and more welcoming.

Natural light can have a powerful impact on your home’s overall ambiance and functionality. Designing an open-concept floor plan that maximizes natural light requires careful planning and attention to detail. Within this blog article, we plan on providing some tips and tricks for creating a floor plan that optimizes the use of natural light in your home.

Step 1: Assess Your Home’s Natural Light Sources

The first step in designing an open-concept floor plan is to assess the natural light sources in your home. Studies show that natural light can improve mood and overall well-being. Begin by taking note of windows, skylights, and glass doors that allow light into your space. Pay attention to which directions these sources face to determine where sunlight will be most abundant.

Step 2: Remove Barriers to Light Flow

Eliminating walls between rooms will help increase natural light flow throughout your home. If removing a wall is not possible, consider replacing solid walls with glass partitions or adding internal windows to create a more open feel.

Step 3: Focus on Structural Elements

Structural elements, such as beams and columns, can support your open-concept design while effectively doubling as architectural features. Utilizing these elements in the right manner can optimize both the functionality of your floor plan and your home’s exposure to natural light.

Step 4: Incorporate Reflective Surfaces

Reflective surfaces like mirrors, glass tables, or furniture with high-gloss finishes can significantly increase the amount of natural light in a room. Strategically place these items throughout your open-concept space to bring added brightness and depth.

Step 5: Choose Light-Friendly Flooring & Wall Colors

Flooring and wall colors greatly influence how much natural light is absorbed or reflected in a room. Opt for lighter colors with reflective properties – like shades of white or pale neutral tones – on the walls and floors to enhance the sense of openness and natural illumination.

Step 6: Opt for Minimalist Furnishing & Decor

Heavy and cluttered furniture can obstruct natural light flow. Aim for a minimalist aesthetic with streamlined, low-profile furniture pieces that do not obstruct sunlight. Also, avoid hanging excessive artwork or decorations on the walls, which can crowd your space and limit light exposure.

Step 7: Maximize Window Efficiency

To make the most of your windows, choose window treatments that are not only trendy but also serve a practical purpose. Sheer curtains or blinds allow you privacy while letting in ample sunlight. Alternatively, installing larger windows or updating older ones with energy-efficient glass can boost natural light input.

Step 8: Combine Indoor and Outdoor Living Spaces

Merging indoor and outdoor living spaces helps bring more natural light into your home. Wide-open glass doors or retractable wall systems can connect interior spaces with exterior patios, decks, and gardens for an expansive feeling that allows natural light to flood both areas.

Creating an open-concept floor plan that maximizes natural light involves thoughtful planning and smart design choices. Implementing some of these tips into your home will make your living space brighter and a true haven.

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LIGHTING, OUTDOORS

Outdoor Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Yard

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Do you want to add some extra charm and illumination to your outdoor space? Outdoor lighting is a great way to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your yard. Whether you’re looking for practical lighting solutions or want to add some decorative flair, there are plenty of options! This article will provide you with several outdoor lighting ideas that can help brighten up your yard and make it the envy of the neighborhood.

#1: Pathway Lighting

This lighting idea is an excellent way to add both practical and decorative elements to your outdoor space. They can be used to illuminate a walkway or pathway, making it easier and safer to move around in the dark. Pathway lights come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, so you can find one that suits the aesthetic of your landscape perfectly!

#2: String Lights

These lights are the perfect way to make any backyard look magical. Whether you’re looking for something romantic or whimsical, string lights will do the trick! Hang them on trees or gazebos for an especially festive touch.

Tips on how to be creative with your String Lights

  • Create patterns with the lights by draping them in different directions and wrapping them around trees and posts.
  • String multiple strands together to create a canopy of light.
  • Add colorful bulbs for an extra pop of color.
  • You can also hang paper lanterns or other decorations from the strings for an even more unique look!

#3: Spotlights

These lights are perfect for highlighting certain features or objects in your yard. This could include a fountain, garden sculpture, patio furniture, etc. Spotlights are an excellent way to add drama and create visual interest in any outdoor space.

#4: Solar Lighting

For those of you who want an energy-efficient lighting solution, solar lights are the way to go! These lights absorb sunlight during the day and then use it to power up at night – no electricity required. Not only is this good for the environment, but it’s also cheaper than traditional forms of lighting.

#5: LED Lights

LED lights are a popular choice for outdoor lighting because they’re energy-efficient and long-lasting. These lights offer bright, crisp illumination that is sure to upgrade any outdoor space. Plus, you can choose from a variety of colors and styles to find the perfect fit for your yard!

#6: Hanging Lanterns

Hanging lanterns are an excellent way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outdoor space. These lights come in a variety of shapes, styles, and sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your yard. Hang them from trees or posts for a truly magical effect!

Types of Lanterns

  • Candle Lanterns: These lanterns create a soft, romantic atmosphere in any outdoor space. Hang them from trees or posts and let the flickering candlelight do its work!
  • Solar Lanterns: If you’re looking for a more energy-efficient option, solar lanterns are the way to go. They come in a variety of shapes and styles, so you can find one that complements your landscape perfectly!
  • Gas Lanterns: These lanterns offer a more traditional look that will instantly add charm and character to any outdoor space. They’re also much brighter than other types of lanterns, so they’re great for providing ample illumination.

No matter what kind of lighting you choose, it’s important to make sure that it is properly installed and maintained. Consult a professional like Blingle! if necessary – having the right lighting solution can make all the difference in elevating your outdoor space! With these ideas, you’ll be able to create a backyard that looks beautiful both day and night.

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LIGHTING

How to Luxuriously Brighten up a Room With Living Room Lighting

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Americans spend around 76% of their time in the living room, which shows designing the perfect lounging space is key. 

Choosing the right lighting solutions can make or break the room, so don’t rush the planning stage. The only problem is you must strike the perfect balance between style and function which can feel overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with interior design. Perhaps you’re currently stuck in this position and you’re searching for guidance on the topic. 

Hit the nail on the head? No worries; we’ve got you! Here’s how to luxuriously brighten up your room with living room lighting.  

Set the Mood With Ambient Lighting  

Choose ambient luxury lighting as is a foundation to build upon. Otherwise known as general lighting, this will illuminate the room through ceiling or spotlights. If you’re not sure where to look, click here for a selection of gorgeous options.  

Install Task Lighting

One of the most important lighting fixtures is task lighting. As the name suggests, it illuminates the area where you’re doing an activity such as reading or working at your desk. In living rooms, this is often a table or floor lamp that’s easily adjustable.  

Consider Accent Lighting 

Another form of modern luxury lighting is accent lighting. These highlight specific features in your living room and set the mood. For instance, you could install accent lighting to illuminate your favorite artwork or shelves that display an array of ornaments.  

Hang a Statement Piece 

Go the extra mile by choosing chandelier lighting as your statement piece. The beauty is this looks equally luxurious when turned off, which helps tie the room together. Plus, you can either go with an extravagant design or a sleek, contemporary one depending on your home’s decor.  

You could also choose wall lighting that doubles as art for a unique look. Not only does it create a calming atmosphere but it’s a definite conversation starter for your dinner guests. 

Find the Right Light Bulbs 

Whichever modern lighting you choose, finding the right light bulbs is essential. Most homeowners choose LED bulbs as they’re energy-efficient and last far longer than regular bulbs. Or, if you’re on a budget, choose compact fluorescent bulbs.  

Mix Old and New Fixtures 

An effective interior design trick is mixing new and old lighting fixtures, especially if you’re in a modern home. You could hang a vintage pendant light and have minimal wall sconces as it won’t overwhelm the room. Or, if you’re not a fan, experiment with different materials like pairing brass with silver.  

Find Your Perfect Living Room Lighting Options Today 

Hopefully, you’re now an expert at living room lighting and can start designing. 

You have the power to get creative with the design such as using ambiance lighting to set the mood or experimenting with accent lighting. Homeowners can also blend vintage with contemporary pieces or find wall lighting that doubles as art. Whatever you choose, have fun with it! 

Enjoyed our article? Great to hear! Then, browse the rest of our blog for more content. 

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HOME DESIGN, home renovation, LIGHTING

Natural Light Vs Privacy: How to Find the Best Solution for Your Windows

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Windows are considered the eyes of a home. They let sunlight in and allow you to enjoy views of the outside world from the comfort of the sofa. However, they can also allow strangers to peer into your home. 

Many homeowners face this dilemma at some point: how to enjoy natural light and privacy simultaneously? Finding the right window coverings is critical for your comfort too. For instance, south-facing windows can let in intense sunlight for several hours throughout the day, which can be either beneficial or inconvenient, depending on the season. 

What window treatments to choose if you want to strike the perfect balance between natural lighting and privacy? Read on to find a few tips and tricks. 

The Importance of Functionality 

When looking for window treatments, you will discover many designs and materials. Some homeowners prefer soft treatments like curtains, drapes, or roman shades. Others prefer blinds, shutters, and similar options made of hard and durable materials. Layered coverings that combine hard and soft materials can be a great aesthetic choice.

To make the right choice for your home, start by evaluating functionality. Would you like to install the window treatments inside or outside the frame? Would it be more convenient if the coverings functioned up and down or side to side? Would you prefer blinds that can be tilted open and closed? 

Functionality is a crucial factor to consider. Some window treatments allow you to control the amount of sunlight inside your home. You can find window treatments that block sunlight entirely and can turn your rooms dark instantly. There are also soft and transparent window treatments that let light stream through while blocking outsiders from getting a peek into your home.   

How to Find High-Quality Materials and Designs 

Through their shapes, materials, and the views they offer, windows play a fundamental role in the overall design and ambiance of a room. Big windows that let in abundant sunlight make a room look spacious and inviting. Small or improperly covered windows make a room look small and can even trigger feelings of claustrophobia. 

You cannot do much about the size or shape of the windows. This is why choosing practical and aesthetically pleasing coverings is vital. If you don’t know where to start your search, take a look at Hunter Douglas blinds. You will discover high-quality window treatments made of long-lasting materials in line with contemporary design trends. There are many models to choose from, each with unique features. 

 Window treatments should be the last elements to buy when decorating your home because their texture, color, and shape must be in perfect balance with the style of the rooms. 

If you prefer to install window treatments outside, choose durable materials that can withstand various weather conditions. Consider how the window coverings will affect the architecture and look of your home.   Follow our tips to find window treatments that allow you to enjoy the benefits of natural light without giving up on your privacy.

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home renovation, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE, LIGHTING

Notice Any of These 7 Things? Call an Electrician Immediately

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Many of us take for granted that our home electrical systems will allow us to carry on with life as usual. Most of the time they do, especially if they were installed correctly and have been properly maintained. Still, there’s always a chance that something could go wrong. Sometimes, people accept certain malfunctions as normal and simply ignore them. That’s not necessarily a good idea. Take a look at the following problems to get a better idea of when you should call a professional electrician.

1) Smoke or a Burning Smell

Smoke is a sure sign it’s time to reach out for help. Where there’s smoke or a strange burning odor, there could be fire to follow. This is especially true if an outlet, light switch, or appliance is the source of the smoke or smell. It’s a good idea to make the local fire department your first point of contact. From there, contact an Idaho Falls electrician.

2) Sparks Coming from an Outlet or Switch

Sparks flying from an electrical outlet or switch are also a sign that a problem has developed. Seeing sparks when plugging in an electrical appliance or device is an indication of trouble, too. In either situation, be sure to contact an electrician in Idaho Falls as quickly as possible. 

3) Your Lights Are Flickering

This is one of those issues people often dismiss as a normal occurrence. It’s not uncommon for lights to dim or flicker a bit when an appliance kicks on. That doesn’t mean it should be happening, though. This may be a warning sign that your electrical system needs repairs or you’re placing more of a strain on the system than it can handle. If your lights flicker or dim from time to time, don’t hesitate to find an electrician for help.

4) Unusual Buzzing Sounds

Buzzing sounds coming from outlets, switches, or other portions of your home electrical system can certainly be unnerving. That’s your internal fight-or-flight response kicking in, and it means there’s a clear and present danger. It could indicate a serious problem with the wiring that could lead to shocks or a fire. 

5) Outlets are Hot to the Touch

If you plug in an appliance or device and notice the outlet feels warm or hot, there’s a problem in the making. This is also the case if your light switches start feeling warmer than usual. Unplug any items that are plugged into the outlet or turn off the affected switch immediately. Consider shutting off the circuit breaker that controls that portion of the electrical system as well. Then, call an electrician near me.

6) Tripping Circuit Breakers

Do some of the circuit breakers in your home trip from time to time? This often happens when an appliance kicks on or someone plugs a new appliance or device into an outlet. Though you can often switch the circuit breaker back on to temporarily remedy the issue, it’s a sign that there’s a serious underlying problem that needs professional attention.

7) Lights or Outlets Aren’t Working

If some or all of your lights or electrical outlets aren’t working, it’s definitely a good idea to call an electrician. Problems like these can disrupt your life, but they’re more than minor inconveniences. They’re indications that there’s a potentially dangerous problem with the overall electrical system.

Keeping Your Electrical System Safe and Functional

Some electrical issues are easy to spot. Others may not really seem like much of a problem. Either way, it’s best to have them checked out and repaired as quickly as possible. Ignoring even a seemingly minor electrical problem can lead to major malfunctions and safety hazards down the road. 

SHOP LIGHTING…

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LIGHTING, SHOPPING FINDS, TRENDS

My top 9 favorite table lamps

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Let’s talk table lamps…I have been working with a client (updating her family room) and one of the key pieces in her space is lighting. I have been sourcing out (and am currently obsessed with voluminous table lamps)…I have found so many incredible options – I just had to share…

Table lamp inspo

What I am loving about these lamps is the amazing texture! I know I’m always presenting neutral options but what I love about neutral pieces is that the shape and texture can really add interesting visual elements to any room. These styles are perfect for a bedroom, entryway or living room – I love the voluminous shape and size of these options. Lighting can make a statement in your space and also be functional.

This entryway is a great example of an entryway with this style of lamp. It adds a great design element to this space — this space is neutral (black + white) with pops of gold really set a welcoming scene to this home.

Photo credit: Studio McGee

When it comes to shopping for a lamp I highly recommend sticking with a neutral tone – it’s versatile and classic. Lamps are definitely an item worth investing in, since they are used season to season – so be sure to think long term when it comes to buying lighting.

A few tips when it comes to purchasing a table lamp…

  1. When it comes to the correct height, think about the location of the lamp – is it beside the sofa? Be sure to base it on your eye level when sitting, you will want to make sure that when you sit down you are eye level with the bottom of the shade. This will make sure that the light is not shining directly into your eye.
  2. Your lampshade should never overlap the surface it is on. So for example if you are selecting a lamp for an entry console table make sure the lamp shade isn’t wider than the table it sits on.
  3. Be aware of the size of your room. A small and skinny lamp in a large room will look even smaller. Proportions are important.

Shop table lamps

  1. Fairfax table lamp
  2. Barstow ceramic table lamp
  3. LaBrea table lamp
  4. Miller ceramic table lamp
  5. Faris ceramic table lamp
  6. Maddox Terra cotta table lamp
  7. Tinney table lamp
  8. Tinney 1 light table lamp
  9. Latrobe taupe table lamp

I hope you love this round up of table lamps. Let me know which one is your favorite!

SHOP LIGHTING….

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LIGHTING

8 Tips and Tricks to Improve Your Home’s lighting

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Lighting can make a home more attractive and welcoming, or it can fall short. Homes with a shortage of lighting can be fine during daylight hours, but after dark, it will be hard to read or play games and there may be dark areas in hallways and corners. Lighting can make or break a home’s design and mood. But, modernizing light fixtures and adding light in halls and dark corners can make a dramatic difference in the home’s usability and comfort. New lighting fixtures can even lower lighting bills.

Home Lighting For Both Inside and Outside Areas

Good home lighting starts before you even enter the home. Modern exterior lights can be powered by the sun to charge during the day and light driveways, entries, and exterior areas at night to add to home security and curb appeal. Exterior lighting can create nightscapes of beauty and interest in home landscaping. Contacting a company such as nightscapes.ca can be the start of better lighting for the home and its exterior areas.

Solar-powered or LED lights can give a home’s exterior great lighting at a small cost. Patios and deck areas can suddenly be used for entertaining or relaxing in the evenings. Coming home can be well-lit and safe because of motion sensing entry lights. There won’t be any more fumbling for the keys in the dark. A well-lit entry is safer than a dark one.

8 Simple Tricks and tips To Improve Home Lighting

Moving to the inside of the home, lighting can be improved with an affordable investment. There are ways that interior designers improve the lighting in homes they design interiors for.

1. Choose one light fixture in a room to be a focal point, then add to that lighting with smaller fixtures located in crucial spots around the room. There are several types of lights, including ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, table lamps, sconces, floor lamps, and track lighting. Layering lighting can be very effective.

2. Purchase new light fixtures for each room that are the correct scale so they don’t get lost or overpower the room. Adding layers of light such as under cabinet lighting in a kitchen can be very effective. Accent lights can draw attention to special room features such as artwork or a fireplace.

3. Replace older light bulbs with more-efficient ones, and consider installing dimmer switches to control light levels and the mood in each room. Light fixtures that use three-way bulbs are the best.

4. Update old ceiling fans and lights with new ones that provide better energy efficiency and a modern look.

Replace Outdated Lighting Controls

5. Consider updating the light switches and controls to make use of smart-house technology and wireless options. With this improvement, people can control lights anywhere in the house or outside with one control device.

6. If money is limited, replace the oldest, or least attractive, light fixture in the house first, then replace other fixtures as money becomes available. The homeowner can take photos of each place they want a new light and take the photo to the lighting store for easier shopping. Lights can also seem brand new if they are given new lampshades.

7. Reduce the layers of heavy window coverings on windows and clean the windows to add natural light to a room. Consider using shades that can be lifted during the day and lowered at night for privacy.

8. Candles can add to the decor of a room. They can even be scented to add more interest. Then, they can be used as emergency lighting if the power goes out. Candles can also be lit to give a room a romantic feeling.

Walking through a house with a notepad in hand is a good way to make a lighting plan to follow. Make notes of outdated light fixtures or dark spots in rooms. Then, use those notes to add to or update the lighting.

SHOP LIGHTING…

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LIGHTING

Proper Lighting for Every Room in Your Home

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Whether you want to improve the lighting in your bedroom or are planning to renovate your entire home, plan for the setup of lights in different rooms. Each room in your house has a different function; therefore, they will need a more specific type of lighting.

To ensure maximum lighting, consult with your home lighting electrician and keep the following room-by-room lighting suggestions in mind.


Living Room/Family Room Lighting


Laying lights is an important concept when planning the lighting for your living room, which is an area of the house where most people gather and spend a long stretch of time together. The activities in living rooms include conversations, reading, watching TV, and other family activities. Install lights that bounce off the ceiling for ambient illumination. This type of lighting creates a strong sense of brightness in the room, as well as avoids the downward direction of recessed lights or shadows. Bouncing lights off the ceiling also suits the human tendency to see vertical planes versus looking at your feet.

Achieve this set-up by integrating valance or cove lighting into a room’s interior. If you have an entertainment unit or bookcase that doesn’t go all the way to the ceiling, add a linear fluorescent or a piece of millwork behind.

Kitchen Lighting

This room’s focus on food preparation and cleanup requires careful consideration of ambient lighting. One of the main reasons sinks are located near the window is to take advantage of natural lighting. Augment the natural light with a recessed fixture or a ceiling-mounted one above the sink. Lights under the cabinet can also illuminate the countertop without relying on an overhead light.

Another basic lighting plan is to have a ceiling-mounted fixture provide ambient light with soffit lighting shedding light above the sink.

Bedroom Lighting

The bedroom needs lighting that promotes comfort and relaxation. Overhead lighting well-diffused by the frosted glass or other material creates a cozy ambiance minus the glare. If you want variety, you can also invest in architectural light or sconces flanking a wall mirror.  

Bedside lamps with warm bulbs are essentials. This enables you to turn off your lights without leaving the comfort of your bed.

Bathroom lighting

Halogen bulbs are the standard for bathroom lighting but compact fluorescent bulbs also help. You can also use recessed downlights or decorative lights for areas in the bathroom over a hundred square feet.

Complement this design by adding close-to-ceiling fixtures that can supplement wall brackets in larger bathrooms.

Mount one lighting fixture over the bathroom’s mirror to light up space but it can cause shadows on your voice. Avoid creating shadows by not mounting them directly over the mirror. If you’re using exposed lamps, avoid using higher wattage. Avoid going beyond 40 watts. Go for lights that provide crisp lighting to render your skin tone accurately.

In the shower, you can use ceiling mounted plastic units or recessed lights. Angle the lights to make sure your fixtures will sparkle.

The right lighting sets the right mood for the right room. Work with your electrician to determine which lighting option or plan is the best for your room.

SHOP LIGHTING….

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