Leaving outdoor lights on can be a great way to provide security, visibility and decoration for your home or business. But when it comes to the cost, you may be surprised to learn that it can add up quickly—especially if you’re leaving them on all night.
The cost of keeping outdoor lights on depends largely on the type of lighting you’re using. Traditional incandescent bulbs are the least efficient, and they will cost more than other types of bulbs to operate over time. LED lights are significantly more efficient and can last for up to 25 times longer than an incandescent bulb, reducing the overall cost of operation.
In addition to the type of lightbulb you use, the wattage will also affect how much it costs to leave your outdoor lights on. Higher wattage bulbs require more energy and will thus cost more in electricity bills over time. You can reduce this cost by using lower wattage bulbs or installing motion-sensor lights that only turn on when someone is present.
Finally, it’s important to consider how long you plan on leaving your outdoor lights on each night. If you only need them for a few hours at a time, then the costs won’t be as high as if you plan on leaving them running all night long.
Conclusion:
How much it costs to leave outdoor lights on really depends on what type of lightbulbs you’re using, their wattage and how long they’re left running each night. LEDs are the most efficient option and can save money over time compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Motion-sensor lighting is also a great way to reduce energy consumption while still providing adequate lighting when needed.
