Bright Lights & Bugs

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The Facts

The Emerald Coast, with its warm evenings, is perfect for enjoying a tranquil poolside setting. The distinct charm of pool lighting in this region, may attract unwanted bugs which presents a challenge for many homeowners.

In addition to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your pool, the right lighting choice is pivotal on whether your evening is filled with the soothing glow of lights or the constant flutter of bugs.

When considering outdoor lighting, the right choice can make a significant difference.  Homeowners should therefore “strike the right balance” between beauty and functionality while providing a bug-free environment.

Pool Color 101

A pool’s allure in the evening is its shimmering water but also the color of its lights.   The same goes for the allure of your lanai. Today’s energy-efficient, low-voltage LED lights are the optimal choice and provide a range of illumination from serene and subtle to vibrant and dynamic. Lighten Up Lighting’s Lanai lights enable you to select virtually endless color choices, you ask, what are the most common colors and the pros and cons of each.  So keep reading…….

  • White – A timeless classic choice offering clear visibility to ensure safety and a neutral, elegant ambiance.  However, white lights emit a higher UV emission and may tend to attract more bugs than other colors.
  • Blue – Is very popular as it creates a tropical or oceanlike feel.  What’s nice about blue lights is that they emit less UV light striking a “good” balance between aesthetics and functionality.
  • Green – This color provides a natural, lagoon appearance and is less appealing to bugs, especially the darker hues of green.
  • Red – Red lights provide a bold and energizing feel.  These are often used for special occasions and holidays. Best yet, red lights are least visible to bugs making this an ideal color choice.
  • Purple – Is unique, mystical and tranquil.  Purple lights also strike a “good” balance between aesthetics and functionality.
  • Yellow – These produce a hue that is warm, inviting and reminiscent of a sunset. Similar to red lights, they too are least visible to bugs

Tips & Tricks for a “Bug-free” Outdoors & Lanai

In addition to selecting the right color there are other “Tips & Tricks” to consider to facilitate a “Bug-free” outdoors and lanai. 

  • Professional Installation – Engage a professional, Lighten Up Lighting, as we will ensure that fixtures prevent water infiltration and position them in such a way to direct the glow inside the lanai, patio and pool.  Further, the fixtures offered contain a dimming feature so you can select the color of choice and reduce the brightness especially during dawn and dusk where bug activity is higher.
  • Water Movement – While spending time in your pool, turn on your spa or filter to circulate water so that it is not still.  Still water is a breeding ground for bugs.
  • Plants, Flowers & Herbs – Certain plants, flowers and herbs are natural repellants against bugs and biting insects. They are inexpensive, low maintenance, can be placed in pots around your patio, lanai and pool while creating a natural and colorful atmosphere.  Some can also be used to bring flavor to drinks and certain recipes when cooking.  Consider; Marigolds, Mint, Catnip, Lemongrass, Lavender, Rosemary, Basil and Thyme.

What To Do Next

Don’t delay, contact Lighten Up Lighting todayat 813-845-4042 or admin@lightenuplighting.net to help you design an outdoor lighting solution within your budget to create the ideal ambience while facilitating a bug-free patio and lanai.  

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