Step Lights: A Bright Idea

The last thing you want to face when coming home late at night is stumbling over a flight of dark steps and fumbling blindly for the keys.  Outdoor lighting is really a matter of safety.  Of course, the glow of step lights does provide a nice aesthetic appeal, but the more important issue is whether you feel secure finding your way inside if it’s pitch black.

If your outdoor lighting is in dire need of an update, determine which step lights are right for you.

If you’re looking for an effortless install:

The LED Battery Operated Step Light includes a simple mounting plate with two screws, no wiring required.  It’s motion sensor activated and switches to a low-glow mode to conserve battery power when no motion is detected.  It’s a single bright white LED light that can be mounted anywhere you need light.  Battery power will last over a year, and the design is completely weatherproof.

If you want a light with more pizzazz:

The LED Color Changing Step Light Kit (update 9/26/2013 – this product is no longer available) includes ten lights that can switch between white, yellow, red, green, light blue, blue, and violet, depending on the mode you select from a hand-held remote control.  The installation isn’t too complicated; it involves drilling a small hole for each light and feeding the cable through the hole to the next light.  The kit is also expandable to up to 30 LED step lights for those with a longer flight of stairs to illuminate.

LED Rope Lights also create a unique effect.  These are more versatile and can be mounted to patio umbrellas, around deck railings, or simply along the pathway/stairway.  Depending on the look you’re going for, you can choose between Cool White Rope Lights or Warm White Rope Lights.  Lengths come in 3ft, 9ft, 15ft, 30ft, 75ft, and 150ft (150 is only available in warm white).  Installation involves plastic mounting clips with screws.  If you’re mounting in a straight line (for a path), check out the clear mounting channels.  For creating step lights with rope light, you’ll need a couple of flexible connectors.

If you’d like your light to automatically turn on at dusk:

Our LED Step Light Kit with Dusk-to-Dawn Sensor (update 9/26/2013 – this product is no longer available) also includes ten lights, but the photocell included will detect the sunset and signal for the lights to turn on automatically.  This is perfect for security in terms of keeping your house lit up when you’re out of town.  Like the Color Changing Kit, the installation involves drilling small holes for the light and feeding the cable through.  It’s expandable to up to 46 LED step lights.

For an understated look that seamlessly fits into your wall/steps:

The LED Recessed Mini Step Light is a bright white LED with a frosted glass lens and brushed steel finish around the border.  It’s controlled by an on/off wall switch and its steel housing is totally protected against dust and water for outdoor use.