Proper interior lighting gives your home the perfect ambiance and makes it comfortable for you and your family. However, there are many mistakes people make when installing lighting in their homes that result in energy being wasted and other inconveniences. To keep you on the safe side, here are seven interior lighting mistakes to avoid.
1. Ignoring Dimmer Switches
One of the common mistakes people make in interior lighting is ignoring dimmer switches. All your lights, including wall lights and lamps, should be dimmable. Dimmer switches enable you to control your interior lighting the way you want them.
2. Forgetting Portable Lighting
Another common interior lighting mistake people make is forgetting to install portable lighting systems. A good interior design should have portable lightings like floor and table lamps. Design the portable lighting systems properly to avoid having electric cords dangerously running across your living space.
3. Controlling Different Lights with a Single Circuit
You need reliable, task lighting for your interior spaces. Controlling different types of light with a single lighting circuit will not achieve this. Each light in your home should be controlled separately to ensure maximum efficiency and flexibility.
4. Dismissing Exterior Lighting
If you have rooms looking into a balcony or yard, you should install exterior lights. Lighting your exterior will prevent it from being dark at night. Exterior lighting is effective in creating a beautiful nighttime view and improving safety.
5. Ignoring that Lighting Uses Energy
Many people ignore that lights consume energy. Install energy-saving lights in your home. They are slightly expensive upfront, but they consume less energy and have a longer lifespan. According to the Department of Energy, residential LED products consume about 75% less energy and can last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent lamps.
6. Ignoring Your Wall Painting
Your interior lighting should complement your wall painting. Choosing lights without considering your wall colors can make your room too bright or too dark. If your walls have dark painting, repaint them with lighter paint to brighten your house.
7. Using Cool Bulbs
Many people make the mistake of using cool bulbs. Instead, you should install warm lights throughout your home. You can only make exceptions for your utility rooms and shelving units.
Proper interior lighting is essential in every home. Making the right choices when installing lights will improve your home’s atmosphere and save you a lot of energy.
