truck

Free shipping for US orders over $75

Is Your Landscape Lighting Polluting Others?

When we think of pollution the first thought that comes to mind is highways, Los Angeles, airports, smog, and major cities. Yet, outside of the air we breathe, pollution can come in many other forms.

Have you ever wondered if your landscape lighting was causing a safety hazard? Is the glare from your lighting hedging into your neighbor’s property?

Many homeowners are unaware of how their lights are affecting others. Improperly installed lighting fixtures can send unwanted beams into a neighbor’s yard or result in a safety hazard if glare spills over onto streets or in other places it shouldn’t be.

Three categories of lighting pollution

SkyGlow

Skyglow is light that is focused upwards toward the sky and wastes precious power since it is not illuminating any landscape surface. This type of lighting pollution does not contribute any safety features to the landscape such as lighting walkways or porches.

Glare

Glare is the byproduct of intense lighting. This pollution can create unsafe conditions for people walking on your property or for drivers if the glare is focused on the road.

Light Trespass

Light trespass occurs when light intended to illuminate a particular area spills over into your neighbor’s property where it doesn’t belong.

If you intend on eliminating the lighting pollution around your home, it may be wise to hire a professional. Your landscape lighting should highlight specific areas without illuminating unwanted spaces. A trained contractor will understand the range of glare and how to maximize your power without creating unwanted safety hazards.

Electrical contractors understand how to position lights not only to maximize power but also to avoid any potentially hazardous conditions. A landscape lighting expert will map out your design paying attention to the focal points while pinpointing where the lights should focus. A professional will know how to offer you the design you desire without sacrificing safety and a distraction-free environment for your neighbors.

Here are a few solutions to lighting pollution

Stick to specific areas

Landscape lighting should enhance, not completely illuminate your design. Too much light is overwhelming and the glare will contribute to pollution. Sometimes, the “less is more” approach works wonders.

Selective power

You do not need to light your landscape at all hours of the night. You can turn off your lights in the late hours of the evening and turn them back on at dusk the next day. Reserve your lighting for activities that take place in your yard or for special times that necessitate it.

Low Voltage Lighting

Any reduction in wattage will do its job to reduce light pollution. Low voltage fixtures provide enough lighting to highlight your beautiful landscape and light your porch and walkways without wasting power on bright lighting.

Creating a safe and courteous environment with your landscape lighting design is a valiant and worthwhile effort. Do your part to reduce lighting pollution and create the landscape of your dreams without negatively affecting your lives or the lives of the people surrounding you.