Fall is here in Central Indiana, and with it comes the shift toward shorter days and cooler temperatures. You know what that means: it’s time to prepare your outdoor lighting system for the cold months ahead! Whether you’re planning on using your outdoor space year-round or just want to preserve it for next summer, Luminocity has you covered with our 4 maintenance tips for fall to keep your outdoor lighting system shining all season long. 

1. Clear away leaves and tree limbs

It’s important to clear leaves and tree limbs off your outdoor lighting system on a regular basis. Otherwise, you run the risk of damaging your lights and leaving your home in the dark. Fortunately, it’s easy to do this yourself. First, be sure to turn off the circuit breaker to your outdoor lighting system. Next, use a leaf blower or broom to clear away any leaves or debris. Then, turn on your outdoor lights and enjoy your well-lit home! 

2. Clean off outdoor lighting fixtures

Over the course of the year, dirt and grime can build up on your outdoor lighting fixtures which can cause them to lose some of their brightness. As we transition into a new season, now is the perfect time to clean your outdoor lighting fixtures. First, head back to the circuit breaker of your outdoor lighting system and turn it off.  Then, use warm water and mild soap to clean off all fixtures. A quick clean will have your outdoor lighting system shining brightly again!

3. Reset your system timer

If you have an automatic timer for your outdoor lighting system, now is the time to reset it for the fall. With the sun setting earlier every day and daylight savings time ending on November 6, you’ll want to make sure your lights are turning on and off at the right times. Resetting your lighting system timer is easy and only takes a few minutes. Simply find your timer, consult the owner’s manual, and make the necessary adjustments. Done! Once your timer is updated, you can rest assured that your outdoor lighting system will be ready for the shorter days and longer nights of autumn. 

4. Invest in our Annual Maintenance Plan

Fall maintenance doesn’t have to be a headache. With Luminocity’s Annual Maintenance Plan (AMP), we’ll take care of all outdoor lighting maintenance for you! When we perform an AMP on your quartz-halogen system we replace all bulbs with fresh ones. Our Luminocity outdoor lighting experts will inspect and clean every fixture, bury exposed wires, and trim bushes to achieve an optimal lighting effect. We will also check your system timer and reset as needed. When it comes to keeping your system operating at peak efficiency month after month, our AMP is your best value.

If you are in need of a new outdoor lighting system or would like to update your existing system, the lighting experts at Luminocity would love to assist you. Schedule your professional consult with the Luminocity team online or at 317-537-8055. We’d love to keep your system running smoothly all fall long!

Outdoor lighting is transformative. It enhances the look of your home and yard, makes it easier to get around at night, and can even make your property more secure. But there are also some outdoor lighting facts vs. myths that might make you think twice before installing new lights yourself or hiring a landscaper to do it for you. Luminocity takes a “myth busters” approach to separate the facts from fiction when working with our professional installers.

Myth: Outdoor lighting costs too much money

Many times, homeowners assume that the cost of an outdoor lighting system will be too expensive. Yes, the initial cost can be considerably higher than what you might purchase from a big box store. However, long-term LED outdoor lighting costs 1/5 of what traditional halogen lighting or other systems use. With savings over time and increased safety and security in your home or business, it’s well worth the investment!

Myth: Outdoor lighting takes too much time

It typically takes half of a day to a full day for outdoor lighting technicians to install a fully functional lighting system for both the front and back of most homes. Even better is that trusted, proven crews can work at your home while you manage your work and free time, so you don’t have to sit around at home and wait for them to install your system.

Myth: Anyone can buy and install outdoor lighting from a big box store and get the same results

Yes, as a homeowner you can get your outdoor lighting cheaper from a big box store. But there’s a catch: odds are you may not know how to install them properly. Sure, you could go online and attempt to figure it out, but is this always better? Do you want to be responsible for troubleshooting problems with your own system like a trained professional would? To this myth, we say – no way! 

Myth: Landscapers can install the same lighting system for less money

While it is true that landscapers may be able to install the same lighting system for less money, it may not be worth saving a few hundred bucks upfront only to have to pay more in the long run due to the decreased lifespan of the materials themselves. All systems require regular maintenance and inspection checks throughout their lifespan. With the Luminocity Annual Maintenance Plan, we will inspect and clean each fixture and take care of any minor service needs for no extra charge.

Myth: All outdoor lighting companies are the same

Outdoor lighting companies are not all created equal. There are dozens of installers who care more about making a quick buck than providing a high-quality system. Typically, these installers are uninsured, inexperienced and sloppy regarding design and installation. How do you know which company is right for you? A top-rated outdoor lighting company like Luminocity is one that takes pride in making your home look amazing. They don’t cut corners. Rather, they use safe, high-quality fixtures and create outstanding designs based on your home’s needs. 

Outdoor lighting is a wonderful way to make your home more beautiful and secure. We hope sharing our expert insights has helped you better understand the outdoor lighting facts vs. myths. If you would like to schedule a lighting consultation, reach out to Luminocity at (317) 537-8055 or contact us online. 

Install & maintain lights correctly in the snow

Thankfully, most modern outdoor lights are designed specifically to be weatherproof in order to stay outside during any time of year. However, we still recommend that you try to have them installed in areas that will be cool and dry most of the time, in order to help them last longer against the elements. 

We also recommend checking on the wires and bulbs about once a year to see if they are sustaining any weather damage. With an Annual Maintenance Plan (AMP) from Luminocity, we will come out to inspect and clean each fixture, bury any exposed wire and trim bushes as needed to achieve optimal lighting effect. Investing in the AMP is also your best value because it means that you will not have to pay for any burnt-out bulbs or minor service repairs (such as a cut wire) for the next 12 months. 

Decide between LED & quartz halogen

If you grew up in a place that gets a lot of snow, like here in Indiana, you may remember a tube effect in the snow caused by the heat from frequently used quartz halogen lights. It was a rare occurrence to have a dark home in the snow because the extreme heat generated by these bulbs would quickly melt the snow. In fact, some homeowners were reluctant to switch from older quartz halogen as the more efficient LED lights became more popular because they don’t want to risk having a dark house.

However, LED outdoor lights do still generate heat and will melt snow – just not as fast. If you have LED fixtures and don’t get too much snow they will do fine. However, if you get dumped on with lots of snow, your house may be dark for a little bit until the fixture can melt the show or it is cleared away. LEDs last a lot longer than traditional halogen bulbs, making them a great way to promote efficiency and save money on your utility bills, so you shouldn’t let the fear of a dark home in the snow keep you from switching to them. But if you do choose quartz halogen bulbs, note that our AMP visit also covers the replacement of all your bulbs with fresh ones.

Check the Ingress Protection Rating

If you want the most use out of your outdoor light bulbs, you can check the Ingress Protection Rating when you go to purchase them. The IP code is a system for sharing with consumers how protected your lighting, electrical enclosures and even cell phones are against dust or water. The first part of the code is the letters IP, followed by two numbers. The first number, ranging from 0-6 tells you the protection against solid particles (dust). The second number, ranging from 0-8, tells you the protection against liquid/water. 

If you are concerned about snow or ice in your outdoor lighting, be sure to look for fixtures with a high IP rating against water. At Luminocity, we only use durable fixtures and quality bulbs. We know what type of fixture is best suited for each task, what lighting effect is desired, where the fixture should be placed to achieve the desired effect. We always make sure that the installation (including proper voltage) is done professionally, intending for our lighting systems to work for a long time. If you would like to learn more about how we can keep your home shining bright all year round, contact the Luminocity experts today at (317) 537-8055 or with our online form. We can’t wait to beautify your home with our custom-designed landscape lighting systems.

Autumn is coming, and we’ve got all your top fall maintenance tips to keep your outdoor lighting in good shape during the colder seasons. With the help of Luminocity, your outdoor lighting system can keep shining no matter the weather or temperature. Our Central Indiana neighbors know they can rely on Luminocity for the best maintenance in the business, so check out these tips and call our lighting experts for your next consultation!

Clean outdoor lighting fixtures

Your fixtures can’t shine bright if they’re covered in water deposits, dirt or debris from summer storms. Fall is a great time to get them clean again before it gets too cold and snow/salt packs on another layer of grime. Turn off the circuit breaker to your outdoor system just in case, and you can use warm water and mild soap to clean off your fixtures. You can also use this solution or a commercial cleaner to get any glass panes squeaky clean and shining brightly again. 

Clear off leaves and tree limbs

Autumn in the Midwest also brings falling leaves that can cover up your outdoor lighting. Letting them pile up may cause damage to your fixtures or the system overall. We recommend regularly raking your yard of falling leaves, and you can also take that time to check the ground for any exposed wires from your lighting system and rebury them. You can also use this time to trim any trees or shrubs to reduce falling leaves and maintain the design elements of your outdoor lighting. When Luminocity crafts your home’s lighting design using our fall maintenance tips, we always consider which trees to highlight and which to keep dark. 

Update your lighting system timer

An outdoor lighting timer can be a huge convenience to your daily schedule. Rather than remembering to turn on your lights each night, your timer or smart lights can do it for you! But as the weather gets colder, you’re probably spending less time in your outdoor living space. And with the sun setting earlier every day and daylight savings time ending on Nov. 7, you’ll want to make sure to update your outdoor timer to best fit your family’s schedule and needs. 

Consider investing in our AMP

Are you overwhelmed at the thought of adding these fall maintenance tips to your to-do list? Give the Luminocity team a call! Our Annual Maintenance Plan (AMP) includes all of these tasks to keep your lighting system operating at peak efficiency! We replace all quartz-halogen bulbs with fresh ones and check on the quality of any LED bulbs. We will inspect and clean every fixture, bury exposed wires, trim bushes for optimal lighting effect, and reset your system timer as needed. And as a bonus — there is no charge for any bulbs that burn out in the next 12 months, nor for any minor service needs, like a cut wire! Our AMP is truly your best value for outdoor lighting maintenance. 

Schedule a fall consult with Luminocity

If you are in need of a new outdoor lighting design or would like to update your existing system, the lighting experts at Luminocity would love to assist you. We service all systems – not just the ones that we installed. Our team has an eye for great design by knowing what type of fixture is best suited for each task, what lighting effect is desired and where fixtures should be placed to achieve it. And you can always trust that a Luminocity installation (including proper voltage) is done professionally.

Schedule your consultation with the Luminocity team online or at 317-537-8055 today and we’ll have your home shining brightly all fall long!

Everyone wants to host the best backyard barbecue, but what about when the sun goes down? Don’t let the party end early just because you don’t have a well-lit backyard. Luminocity is helping our Central Indiana neighbors light up their outdoor living spaces this summer so that they can enjoy events even late into the night. With these tips, you’ll be ready to host backyard bashes all summer long!

1. Make a Photo-Worthy Event with String Lights 

String lights are everywhere this summer, but don’t let hanging them get you all tangled up. Working with the lighting experts at Luminocity for your hanging lights can ensure that you have the best positioning to keep your space looking inviting and your lights held secure. Plus, we can recommend the best outdoor string lights for your space, rather than just pulling out the holiday lights from last December. The incandescent string light look is quite popular right now, and there are many that even come in an LED option to help you save money and energy.

2. Add Backyard Ambiance with Lanterns & Torches

Lanterns, torches and bollards are another of our specialty services at Luminocity, and can create a special ambiance during your next backyard soiree. We can help you determine the best places for these freestanding lights, along with digging the power supply to ensure your guests don’t trip on cords. If you do find a wire that is exposed or cut, our Annual Maintenance Plan members can have it serviced at no charge! Our AMP is your best value for consistent maintenance and service needs. 

3. Light up a Night Swim with Pool Lighting

Speaking of ambiance, if you have a pool, you’ll want to set the right mood for your next night swim alone or during a party. We know that pools require specific lighting, and our experts can get the job done right while focusing on beauty and function. Our outdoor pool lighting design will ensure both the safety and enjoyment of one of the top outdoor features of your home. If you prefer watching fish swim over swimming yourself, Luminocity can also light up your home’s pond so that you and your guests can check out your fish friends no matter the time of day. 

4. Show off your Backyard Landscaping 

Our landscape and deck lighting will show up the hard work you’ve put into designing your backyard living space, and working with a Luminocity technician will get you the best in placement and shadow management. Knowing which trees to highlight and which to keep dark are key elements of lighting design, and we will also ensure that the lighting doesn’t interfere with life inside your home. At Luminocity, every lighting design is carefully considered to determine which features of the home and landscaping should be accented with lights and which areas should remain dark.If you’re ready to make your backyard an oasis to enjoy both day and night, call the experts at Luminocity to discuss your outdoor lighting options.

Summer is nearly here and that means spending much more time outside with friends and neighbors. You can create an especially welcoming home with the help of outdoor lighting from Luminocity. Use these professional lighting tips on your home this season, and you’ll have the most inviting house on the block in no time!

Illuminate Entryways to your Home

The first thing you want to light up at your home is the entryway. Guests will feel welcomed when they can easily navigate their way to the front door, as well as any pathways to outdoor living spaces, like your backyard or garden. Outdoor lighting makes it possible to draw your attention to something important, like your front entrance, and great design is achieved by knowing what type of fixture is best suited for the lighting effect that is desired.

Light Up Cooking and Dining Areas

If you love to grill, make sure that your work area is illuminated for summer night barbeques and cookouts. Don’t forget to light up your dining area for parties that last well into the night, and consider a professional dimmer to create that perfect ambience. At Luminocity, our wide variety of outdoor lighting options will help your family host the best events in the neighborhood, no matter the time of day. 

Beautify Your Home’s Landscaping

We know that every home is unique, and it is important to reflect your tastes in the design. Our goal is to create a masterpiece as we paint with light for beauty and elegance. When our professional lighting experts consider your landscape lighting, they’ll take the time to meet with you and truly listen to their needs. We recommend working with a company like Luminocity because it’s your best choice to achieve the look you want for your inviting home – year after year.

Improve Home Security

Another huge benefit to outdoor lighting is the added safety and security you’ll find. Guests, especially aging loved ones, will be able to better navigate tricky pathways to avoid dangerous falls. And studies have shown that a well-lit home is a deterrent to vandals, with a 39% decrease in crime according to one New York City study. Spotlights, flood lights and path lighting can make a big difference in the security that your family feels in their home. 

Keep Your Home Lit All Season Long

Beautiful outdoor lighting means nothing if it doesn’t stay lit properly. When it comes to keeping your system operating at peak efficiency month after month we recommend the Luminocity Annual Maintenance Plan. With this high-value program, we’ll visit your home to replace all bulbs, reset the timing system, bury exposed wires and clean each fixture to achieve your home’s optimal lighting effect. And if there are any burnt-out bulbs or minor service needs during the next 12 months, we’ll take care of that too at no extra charge. Light up your home for summer with the Luminocity experts.

Call us at (317) 537-8055 or schedule a consultation online today to make your outdoor living space the best it can be.