All Mr. Handyman franchises are locally owned and operated and may offer fewer or more services than those listed here. To learn more about lighting services offered in your area, contact your local Mr. Handyman for details or a customized on-site assessment.
Lighting FAQs
Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about lighting services.
What’s the difference between LED and incandescent lighting?
The key difference between LED and incandescent lighting comes down to energy efficiency and lifespan, which is why professional lighting setups often favor LEDs.
LED lights (Light Emitting Diodes) are incredibly efficient, using up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs while lasting tens of thousands of hours. They stay cool to the touch and offer customizable brightness and color options, making them ideal for professional lighting projects.
Incandescent bulbs, while classic, are much less efficient. They produce light by heating a filament, which uses more energy and creates excess heat. Their lifespan is short—around 1,000 hours—making them less practical for professional applications.
Can I install dimmer switches on any type of light?
Not every type of light is compatible with dimmer switches, but many are—with the right setup. For example, if you're working with recessed lighting installation, you'll need to check what kind of bulbs and fixtures you're using. LED lights often require a specific type of dimmer switch that's designed to handle their lower wattage and electronic circuitry. On the other hand, incandescent and halogen bulbs are usually more straightforward to dim.
If you plan to upgrade or install dimmer switches, it’s a good idea to match the dimmer with the lighting type for smooth operation.
What’s the best lighting option for energy efficiency?
When it comes to energy efficiency, LED lighting is hands-down the best option, especially for projects like under-cabinet lighting. LEDs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs, and they last much longer—sometimes up to 25,000 hours or more. That means fewer replacements and lower electricity bills!
If you’re exploring how to install under-cabinet lighting, LED strips or puck lights are great choices. They’re compact, easy to install, and provide bright, even illumination. Plus, many LED options come with dimmers, so you can adjust the brightness to suit your space while saving even more energy.
Can I automate my home lighting system?
Automating your home lighting system is easier than ever and works beautifully for professional lighting setups, too. Smart lighting technology lets you control your lights with apps, voice commands, or even set schedules to turn them on and off automatically.
Using smart bulbs, switches, or hubs, you can create the perfect ambiance for any room while saving energy. Imagine your lights dimming as the evening sets in or turning off when you leave the house—all without lifting a finger! Many systems also integrate with smart home assistants like Alexa or Google Home, making automation seamless.
Can I install a chandelier on any ceiling type?
Installing a chandelier can add instant elegance to a room, but whether you can install one depends on your ceiling type and its structure. If you're wondering how to install a light fixture like a chandelier, consider the following factors:
- Ceiling Strength: Chandeliers can be heavy, so the ceiling must have the proper support. If your ceiling isn’t reinforced, you may need a special electrical box designed to hold the chandelier's weight.
- Ceiling Height: Low ceilings might not be ideal for chandeliers, especially larger ones, as they need enough clearance to avoid feeling cramped or in the way.
- Sloped Ceilings: Good news—many chandeliers can be installed on sloped ceilings with the right mounting kit!