Outdoor lighting enhances the aesthetic appeal by lighting up the exteriors of your home and, at the same time, ensures that your compound stays secure. However, outside light fixtures are exposed to harsh environmental conditions such as accumulation of dirt, dust and other particles, which pose health risks to the light fixtures.
Are your outdoor light fixtures in need of cleaning? Fear not, in this article, we’ll show you how to clean outdoor light fixtures effectively to keep them shining bright in your outdoor areas.
Before proceeding with cleaning an outdoor light fixture,you need to know what type of light fixture you have. Your cleaning process depends on the material of your light fixture.
Why Clean Light Fixtures Regularly
Outdoor light fixtures are exposed to rough weather conditions and all sorts of elements in the environment. Dirt, cobwebs, and even bird droppings may be set on the fittings, which take away from them their look and function. Here are some reasons why cleaning of outdoor light fixtures should be done regularly:
- Better Looks: Outdoor lighting fixtures that are clean enhance your home’s exterior look. Dirty or foggy lights give a shabby look to your house.
- Improved Functionality: Grime built up on top of your outdoor fixtures tends to dim the light output, thus reducing vision and creating a further unsafe outdoor space. Cleaning ensures maximum light output.
- Prolonged Lifespan: Cleaning is also an effective solution for protection against corrosion as well as other sorts of harm to the fixtures, whereas it is less time-consuming and allows fixtures to be kept for a more extended period.
- Energy Efficiency: It is advisable to make sure that the fixture is clean so that efficiency in its operations will improve, and this will lessen the amount of energy used.
Tools Required
- A step ladder (If your fixture is at height)
- A pair of safety gloves
- Worm water
- Liquid soap
- Brush (to remove dust)
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Screwdriver
- Two utility buckets
- Old towel
How To Clean Outdoor Light Fixtures
Lighting can enrich a space and make it significantly more functional – that is, if the outdoor light fixtures are clean and well-maintained. Now that you’re all set, let’s start the cleaning process:
1) Turn off the circuit breaker and outside light switches before starting for safety.
2) Position the step ladder next to the desired light fixture. Ensure the surface is flat and even. If a ladder isn’t available, use a chair or any stable object to support you.
3) Remove light bulbs from sockets with safety gloves.
4) Use the brush to clean the fixture of dirt, dust, and other debris.
5) Use the screwdriver to remove grills, casings, shields, or decorative globes.
6) Soak grills, casings, shields, or globes in warm, soapy water bucket.
7) Dampen a soft cloth with soapy water and gently clean the remaining parts of the lighting fixtures on the wall, avoiding contact with electrical sockets.
8) Dunk the light fittings in clean, warm water after soaking in soapy water. Dry them with an old towel.
9) Apply wax or polish for extra shine on the fittings.
10) Clean bulbs with a damp cloth. Ensure fixtures are fully dry before reattaching.
How To Clean Brass or Copper Outdoor Light Fixtures
Oxidation often causes copper or brass light fixtures to lose their shine. But with some very useful home methods, you can make your copper or brass fixture clean and shiny again. Here are some useful tips:
Lemon juice and baking soda
Mix lemon juice and baking soda, and rub onto copper to remove grime. Rinse with warm water and mild detergent, then with clean water.
Lemon and salt
Rub lemon on the fixture to remove the grime. Mix salt, lemon juice, and cornstarch into a paste for tough cleaning. Apply, then rinse with mild soap and water.
Vinegar and salt
Apply vinegar and salt to the copper, then rub until the tarnish is removed.
What to avoid when cleaning the light fixture
When cleaning outdoor light fixtures, there are several things you should avoid to ensure your safety and that of the fixture.
Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using strong chemicals or abrasive cleaners to prevent damage to the fixture’s finish and electrical components.
Using Rough Materials: Avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or harsh scrub brushes to prevent scratching or damaging the fixture’s surface.
Spraying Water Directly into Electrical Components: Avoid spraying water directly onto electrical components to prevent hazards or damage.
Not Turning Off Power: Always switch off the fixture’s power before cleaning to prevent electrical shock.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean outdoor light fixtures to prevent dirt buildup and maintain their appearance.
Ignoring Manufacturer Recommendations: Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to prevent damage or warranty voidance.
Maintenance Tips
Here are a few tips to keep your outdoor light fixtures in glowing condition for longer:
- Regular cleaning: This will help to avoid long accumulated dirt and make cleaning easy each time.
- Check for damage: See that fixtures are checked frequently for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or exposed wiring, and they should be repaired as soon as they are noticed.
- Bulb replacement: When cleaning fixtures, check for bulb replacements. Choose LED bulbs for efficiency and durability.
- Consider protective coatings: Some fixtures benefit from a clear, protective spray to resist dirt and oxidation.
- Trim nearby foliage: Keep plants and trees trimmed back so that they do not brush against and dirty your fixtures.
FAQs on How To Clean Outdoor Light Fixtures
How often should I clean my outdoor light fixtures?
It’s best to clean them once every three months or at least twice a year to remove any buildup of dirt and debris.
What’s the best way to clean solar panels on outdoor lights?
A soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch the panel.
How do I prevent my outdoor light fixtures from getting rusty?
Regularly polish metal parts, prevent water seepage and apply silicone sealant for added rust protection.
What should I do if water has gotten inside my light fixture?
Ensure the fixture is thoroughly dried before reuse. If water continues to seep in, inspect and replace seals or seek professional help for a lasting fix.
Wrap Up On How To Clean Outdoor Light Fixtures
Adhere to these tips, and you will keep your outdoor light fixtures bright while also using them for as long as possible. Cleaning and maintenance of the outdoor Fixtures and Lights are some of the critical and primary steps to ensure that they work as expected with the needed duration. It beautifies the exteriors and gives a guarantee of safeguard and usability for several years.
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