Top Ten Lighting Accessories
When it comes to lighting, there are tons of options available on the market. Narrowing down the field may seem like a daunting task, but we are here to help! Here are the top ten lighting accessories you need to know.
1. Rope lighting
When looking to add a lighting accessory to your location, whether home or business, rope lighting is one of the most versatile options. This is one of those lighting accessories you can literally use just about anywhere. Whether looking to highlight your mailbox, a stairway, or a create a path along hallways for a night lighting solution, this is a great accessory to have on hand.
2. Diffusers
When it comes to creating a gentle, soothing light, diffusers are a must-have accessory for any lighting solution. A diffuser will help to reduce shadows and allows the lamp to cast a gentle illumination without being overly harsh. Diffusers are available in varying levels of diffusion and patterns to meet a range of preferences.
3. Reflectors
Similar to diffusers, this is an accessory which changes the quality of the light output for the better. While a diffuser makes the light less concentrated, a reflector helps to direct the light in a more concentrated output. For instance, a reflector is usually placed inside the fixture near the top inside of the housing and the bulb so that any light cast upwards is then immediately redirected down for a better illumination spread and more focus.
4. Timers
For those looking to save on lighting costs when they don’t need illumination every hour of the day, timers are one of the best lighting accessories on the market. They can be used in both indoor and outdoor settings based on the specifications and ratings. Designed to allow you to set a specific time frame when lights operate, this can save a lot of utility costs over time. Best of all, there are timer devices which can be installed with just about every type of light fixture from LED to metal halide.
5. Occupancy sensors
Similar to timers yet different, sensors are used to pick up on occupancy of a given space to determine if lighting is needed. These can be either heat or motion detected, as well as options which detect when a door is opened, and signify the need for lighting which turns on the solution. These are another great way to save money on lighting costs.
6. Shatterproof bulbs
When looking for bulbs that will last longer thanks to a durable protective coating, shatterproof bulbs are a great lighting accessory to consider. Made so that if the bulb breaks glass won’t shatter all over the place, these solutions tend to last a long time while ensuring the safety needed for a range of locations. From kitchens to daycares, these are a great solution!
7. Track lighting
For a focused scope of lighting, there is no beating track lighting. This solution is less of an accessory than a main focus, but it still deserves to be on the list. Usually accompanied by other aspects of general lighting, this is a great option for task lighting because it allows for a specific direction of illumination scope to be achieved without much effort. It works well as a way to spotlight wall hangings or other areas of interest as well.
8. Undercabinet lighting
One of the easiest ways to spruce up any kitchen is with undercabinet lighting. While most people think this is a big job that requires electrical know how, there are tons of options for this area of lighting which make it easier than ever to pull off on your own. With plug and play lights for this area, you can simply screw them to the undercabinet area and plug them in for a quick way to upgrade your kitchen.
9. GFCI outlets
For your outdoor lighting accessories, GFCI outlets are a must have. These outlets ensure that if electrical current overflow is present, the outlet and fixture will lose power to prevent electrical shocks to humans. This product can be installed by either an electrician or you can pick up a potable one at almost any lighting store to ensure this safety aspect is met.
10. Address lights
For another lighting accessory to bring some charm to your outdoor area, address lights are a great addition. These small boxes allow you to place your address number in an illuminated light box for added curb appeal.