image: dedeking.com for IKEA

Take the stress out of getting dressed in the morning and update your closet lighting design.  See colors more vividly and surround yourself in flattering illumination with the latest closet lighting tips.  Whether you are building a new closet or updating an existing one, there are specific rules for safely and effectively lighting this valuable space.

The options abound in closet design from choosing the number of shelves and drawers to the dimensions of hanging space and shoe storage.  Some closets may serve as dressing rooms with areas for makeup application, as well.  Providing sufficient lighting is tantamount to making the best use of your space; for all that planning is wasted if you cannot see well enough to distinguish a black sock from a navy blue one.

1. When using surface-mounted incandescent or LED(light emitting diode) luminaires within an enclosed light source, be sure to install fixtures at least 12 inches from all storage areas.  If opting for a single surface-mounted light fixture, size the fixture to allow for a clearance of 18-24 inches from the wall. Usually one centrally located surface-mounted fixture will be sufficient to illuminate a standard size closet.

2. For surface-mounted or recessed fluorescent light fixtures, a minimum clearance of 6 inches between the light source and storage space is required.  LED and fluorescent light fixtures run cooler than incandescent, so they are the top choice in closet lighting design.

3.  When choosing surface-mounted or recessed LED light fixtures, go for top quality luminaires and buy from a reputable dealer.  LED lighting may cost a bit more, but the energy-savings, maintenance-free operation and safety features of LED will prove to be well worth the investment.

Circuit breaker tripping might be something of an annoyance, especially when it happens at inconvenient times. Still, it is much better to have a circuit breaker that trips as opposed to one that doesn’t cut the power when it should.

Circuits can safely handle a certain amount of electricity, but we often don’t realize just how much of a load we’re putting on them. All too often we find ourselves plugging in one appliance too many, only to end up in the dark as the circuit trips! No one enjoys being in the dark, but your circuit breaker is doing the very important job of helping ensure the safety of everyone in your home. It’s important to understand what a breaker does and why it’s so crucial. It’s also vital to have an understanding of what it means when they keep tripping.

If your wires have more current flowing through them than they can safely handle, they could potentially overheat. This can lead to a few different outcomes. The wires could malfunction and lose their ability to work. This means repairs would be necessary before you’re able to utilize that particular circuit again.

Another possible result of excessive electricity is the melting of the protective insulation around the wiring, which leads to exposed metal wires. This exposure can cause fires, as well as an increased risk of electrocution. The circuit breaker should recognize when there is too much current present in the wiring. When the breaker detects excess electricity, it trips, cutting off power before the extra current can lead to any safety issues.

The holiday season is here—how does your house look? If you’ve been putting off hanging your lights for any reason, don’t wait any longer—call Kolb Electric! We’re currently running a holiday light hanging service to help get your home decorated in time for all the festivities. We’re also offering $25 off any service call over $200!

To learn more about these great offers, click here!

There’s a long checklist of to-dos and to-buys for leaving the nest and venturing out into the world. This list of LED dorm lighting ideas and LED gifts for college will make life away from home easier, safer, and even prettier!

Being a long way from home doesn’t come without its risks. Flat tires and breakdowns happen every day, and it’s best to be prepared for them. RGBW LED smart bulb replaces standard A19 globe bulbs and is designed to fit medium screw base sockets. It emits multicolored and white illumination and comes with a touch-color remote to control color, brightness, and nine dynamic fade/flash patterns. The long-lasting LED bulb can also be controlled with an Apple or Android smartphone or tablet with a Wi-Fi Controller Hub (sold separately).