Do you have a lamp that you like to keep on throughout the night? It’s a common feature in most homes. But, Is it safe?
Low-wattage LED bulbs are safe to leave on all night without the risk of overheating or fire. While this will result in a minor increase in electricity consumption, leaving some lights on can help with fear of the dark, easier navigation, and security.
LED bulbs are cool to the touch. They will not overheat which makes them a great option for a light that stays on for long durations.
Before leaving a light on you’ll want to make sure the surrounding is safe. You’ll want to use a proper lamp with no visible damage on the cord.
You’ll also want to ensure there is proper space between the bulb and the shade. If they are touching, you may want to get a different size shade.
Lastly, never drape fabric or paper over a lamp. This can be a fire hazard! If it didn’t come with the lamp, don’t put it on the lamp.
Read on to learn more about what kinds of lights are best to leave on all night and what to avoid!
- Can LED lights be left ON for a week?
- Do lights keep burglars away?
- Considerations for leaving the light on all night
Can LED Lights Be Left ON for a Week?
Fortunately, LED lights are cool to the touch and don’t present a fire hazard as a result.
They can be left on for a week or longer. However, if you are planning to be out of town or away for a long period of time you may want to look into a timer.
This timer is great for any lamp. You can set the time for the light to turn on in 30-minute intervals. It’s great for when you leave town and want to have lights going on or off at random times.
The best part? You can often get these for $5!
Do Lights Keep Burglars Away?
Burglars are brazen and often unpredictable. However, keeping a light on can help to increase the safety of your home.
Burglars are less likely to enter a home with lights on. They are more likely to try and break into dark houses as they are more likely to be vacant.
However, if you are away for long periods of time and only have one light on all day long, this can also be a sign that nobody is home.
To prevent this you can get a timer and randomize the times that the lights are on. An even better idea is to have this on multiple lamps in multiple rooms!
This will give the impression that people are home and moving about the house.
Considerations for leaving the light on all night
Relieving nyctophobia (Fear of the dark)
Nyctophobia is a condition whereby people fear the dark. Night lights illuminate a room and can be soothing.
The nightlight normally emits a soothing and delicate glow, which discloses a room’s comprehensive layout without the need for the primary light source to be turned ON.
Night lights can give adults and children a sense of safety when they are falling asleep. They are available in standard small squares or fun multicolor shapes or characters.
Better Visibility
A lamp or night light can make sure walkways or stairs are visible during the night. This can help keep those late-night injuries at bay.
Have you ever stubbed your toe on the end of the bed on the way to the bathroom in the middle of the night?
How about all those kids’ toys thrown about their bedroom?
A light can help you see the obstacles before you feel them 😉
Security
Ensuring the lights are on during the night usually deters robbers and thieves who usually break into homes to steal valuables.
A dark home is a more vulnerable home!
Increased Cost
Leaving any light on can increase your electric bill but it’s a minor increase. You can help control this cost with your selection of bulbs.
Low-wattage bulbs and LED bulbs will give you the most bang for your buck. They also last around 10 years!
Conclusion to Leaving the lights on all night!
Low-wattage, LED bulbs are safe to leave on all night. LED bulbs are cool to the touch. They will not overheat which makes them a great option for a light that stays on for long durations.
Before leaving a light on you’ll want to make sure the surrounding is safe. You’ll want to use a proper lamp with no visible damage to the cord.
Timers can assist in managing when your lights are on or off and can give you peace of mind while you are away.
