Modern lighting has come a long way from one light over the kitchen table and a lamp by the recliner in the living room. Today’s families want to be able to entertain guests and enjoy a relaxing escape from the outside world. Here are some tips and a few mistakes to avoid when you improve your home lighting.

1 The average size of Americans’ homes has more than doubled since the 1950s, and the same can be said of our concern about resources. But there are a lot of new options to help you light up your home without cranking up your electric bill.

2 Good planning and a reputable electrical contractor are key to any major overhauls. You can always repaint the walls, replace the furniture, and pull up that carpet. But you won’t wake up one morning and say, “I’m going to rewire the den this weekend.”

3 Light each space for its unique purpose to ensure you don’t create atmosphere at the expense of functionality. This could mean under-cabinet lights in the kitchen or mini pendants in the bathroom.

4 Maximize the possibilities with separate controls for the different types of lighting in one room. Sophisticated technology like programmable wall consoles have replaced a row of switches. Ambient lighting doesn’t have to detract from accents.

5 Take advantage of the advances in bulb technology. CFLs and LEDs are leading choices for beautiful light output and low maintenance. They are also put off less heat and cost less to operate.

Here’s just another tidbit of advice:

• Don’t substitute canned lights for the right fixtures. They only direct light down, and you lose the opportunity to light the entire space and not just pieces of a room. Choose fixtures that are appropriately sized for the room and will actually help spread the light throughout the space. Don’t underestimate the value of a ceiling fan. It’s functional, reduces energy costs, and has undergone a modern makeover to be very aesthetically pleasing.

The selection and placement of new lights will be choices you’ll live with for a long time, possibly as long as you own your home. For the best results you need one of the best electrical contractors in Arkansas. You need Gary Houston Electric. Call us at (501) 375-8330 or contact us on our website to get started on your residential or business lighting solutions.