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to Get
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Are you using conventional fluorescent, HPS, or metal halide lighting? If so, upgrading to modern systems like LED is a great way to boost efficiency, safety, and longevity. While lighting installation or replacement may seem straightforward, electrical projects should be left to licensed technicians. That’s where Neighborhood Electric comes in as your trusted partner for exceptional services. With many years of industry experience, our electricians in Nassau adhere to local codes to ensure a seamless and safe process. If you prefer a more hands-on approach to lighting installation, here are 5 mistakes you should avoid.
The most common mistake DIY enthusiasts make during lighting upgrade projects is relying on a single light source, such as a central chandelier, for their needs. This can create unevenness across the room, making it feel flat and contributing to eye strain. You can avoid uneven lighting and shadows by incorporating a layered lighting scheme that includes task, ambient, and accent lighting to create depth and functionality. A licensed electrician can account for your specific activities, overall illumination, and the features you want to highlight, ensuring you seamlessly combine different light sources.
A common mistake during DIY lighting installation or replacement projects is selecting an inappropriate color temperature for different settings. This may include installing a warm light in the kitchen or a cool light in the bedroom, which isn’t ideal for the room’s functionality. If you want to make a space feel just right without compromising functionality, use warmer, yellowish tones, preferably around 2,700 to 3,000K, for areas like living rooms and bedrooms. Conversely, use brighter and cooler lights for task-oriented spaces.
Another common mistake DIYers should avoid when undertaking lighting projects is selecting the wrong fixture size. While it may not seem like a major concern at first, overlooking the size of your fixtures in relation to the target room can cause the light to either get lost or overwhelm it. The most effective way to achieve balance is to carefully plan the scale of your fixtures, ensuring they complement the room’s proportions while enhancing its overall visual effect. If you are unsure about the right fixture size for your intended lighting needs, consult a professional electrical service provider to ensure you make informed decisions.
DIY lighting installations often overlook layers and controls like dimmer switches. This often involves overlooking features like dimmer switches, which limit the ability to adjust brightness for different activities or moods. If you have a home renovation scheduled, reach out to a certified electrical service for guidance on the proper layering and controls for your specific needs. Beyond adding dimmer switches, professionals can recommend smart lighting systems to give you greater flexibility and control over multiple fixtures.
Lastly, upgrading from conventional lighting systems to LEDs is a wise investment for your home. However, most people pair LED bulbs with old incandescent dimmer switches or ignore accessory requirements. When adding multiple lights, overlooking energy consumption can lead to high energy costs. You can ensure compatibility by checking that the LED bulbs are compatible with existing dimmer switches. If not, replace your dimmer switches with the ones designed for LEDs. Additionally, consider the overall energy consumption of your upgrades to keep utility costs low year-round.
The reality is that lighting projects may seem straightforward, but they are not. With this in mind, working with a professional technician can help you navigate the process seamlessly and ensure compliance with building codes. Contact Neighborhood Electric to book an appointment with our experts and enjoy tailored lighting solutions without breaking the bank.
