Have you ever prepared for a comfortable evening on your porch only to discover that your outdoor lights are drawing a lot of insects? For people who have made the switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs, this question is frequently asked. The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. Due to a behavior known as phototaxis, bugs—particularly moths, mosquitoes, and other flying insects, are attracted to specific light sources. Artificial lights can interfere with an insect’s ability to navigate by using the moon and stars, which can lead to confusion and disorientation. How many bugs are drawn to a light depends in large part on its type, color, and brightness.
Fluorescent lights and old-fashioned incandescent bulbs are like neon signs for insects. Insects are drawn to the heat, ultraviolet (UV) light, and bright, blue-white light they emit. Because their eyes are tuned to shorter wavelengths, many insects are sensitive to blue and UV light. This explains why older outdoor lights had a tendency to attract bugs, but LED technology has made this change.
Why Choose LED Lights
Heat-seeking insects find LED lights less appealing because they generate very little heat. Additionally, they produce less UV light than incandescent or mercury vapor lights, which is one of the main reasons they draw fewer insects. Bugs still favor some light colors over others, though, so not all LEDs are made equal. Because they emit light at wavelengths that insects can see well, cool white or bluish LEDs (above 4000K) can still attract insects. Warmer LEDs, those that emit amber or yellow light (below 3000K) are less appealing since insects find it more difficult to detect their longer wavelengths.
This is why using warm, amber-toned LEDs for exterior lighting installation in Philadelphia, PA can help reduce bug activity around your home. Choosing the right color temperature makes a noticeable difference.
Brightness Matters
When it comes to landscape lighting, choices matter. Many homeowners in Lancaster, PA prefer warm white or yellow LEDs for landscape lights, since they can create a welcoming glow while attracting fewer bugs. Aside from color temperature, brightness also plays a role. Even a warm LED can attract bugs if it’s too bright, so it’s a good idea to keep brightness levels as low as needed for safety and ambiance. Motion-sensor lights can also help by only turning on when needed, cutting down on the time lights are active.
LEDs with warm tones and lower brightness are your best bet for warding off bugs, though no light is 100% bug-proof. Whether it’s outdoor lighting for your patio or landscape lighting for your garden, the proper lighting design can significantly impact how many insects are drawn to your lights. You can enjoy your outdoor areas without making them into a bug party if you choose LEDs carefully. To find out more about how GB Electric can help with your outdoor lighting projects and maintain a pest-free outdoor space, get in touch with us today.