As winter approaches, days get shorter, and nights get longer. However, thanks to quality landscape lighting, you can still enjoy your outdoor space. In fact, your landscape lighting is now more important than ever before for safety.

Unfortunately, though, the winter can be rough and take a toll on your lighting fixtures. That’s why it is so important to use the maintenance tips found here.

Clean the Lights

Do your lights seem dim, even though they are in good, working condition? If so, it may be time for a good cleaning. Dirt, bugs and other debris can easily block the light. Before cleaning your fixtures, make sure you shut the power off. Also, check for signs of wasps or other nests that stinging insects may be inside.

It’s best to use a household glass cleaner for wiping down the lenses. Also, be sure to pull dirt and cobwebs out of the fixture’s enclosure and use a damp rag to wipe down the surrounding metal.

Change the Bulbs

Significant changes in temperatures can shorten the lifespan of your bulbs. If you noticed one has burned out, change it as quickly as possible. If you don’t, then nearby bulbs are going to receive more voltage, which can further shorten bulb life. It may be a smart idea to switch to LED bulbs. These last three to 10 years longer and they work better in the cold temperatures.

Inspect Your Lighting System

Chances are, you are going to rely on your landscape lighting to illuminate your walkways and paths. As a result, you need to take some time to inspect your property – when it is dark out – to make sure the fixtures are positioned properly. It’s quite easy to accidentally move these fixtures out of alignment or cause damage with lawn mowers.

While checking your landscape lightning, be sure to look for exposed wires. The freeze and thaw cycle can cause a wire to work its way to the surface. If you find any problem areas, rebury the wire before the ground freezes again.

Swap Out Fixtures

Are your existing landscape lighting fixtures outdated, old or just in need of an upgrade? If so, consider swapping them out for cast bronze options. This is an extremely durable material that’s impervious to corrosion. Also, once you have it installed, it will darken to a beautiful penny-brown and then begin to develop a bluish green patina. The winter months will help speed up this process, thanks to the snow and ice.

As you can see, maintaining your landscape lighting during the winter months doesn’t have to be a difficult job. However, it is one you don’t want to ignore. If you need help with this, be sure to reach out to the professionals at The IDL Company. They can help with any landscape lighting need you may have.