As you're gearing up for fall yard work, don't forget to plan ahead for your winter outdoor lighting. With North Dakota’s long, dark winters and icy conditions, safety becomes a top priority. While summer lighting is all about looks, winter is when you need to focus on preventing slips, trips, and boosting visibility. Here’s how to get your outdoor lighting ready for the North Dakota winter, with tips from Lifehacker.com.

Basic Fall Outdoor Lighting Maintenance

Before winter hits, give your outdoor lights a little TLC to ensure they're safe and functional:

  • Clean the fixtures. Wipe off lenses with soap and water to remove dirt and grime.
  • Check cables. Inspect for any exposed wires and wrap connectors with fresh electrical tape.
  • Clear the yard. Keep up with leaf and debris removal to prevent damage to fixtures.
  • Trim back plants. Make sure overgrown bushes and branches aren’t covering your lights.

Test and Replace Bulbs

Take a walk around your property at night to check for any dead bulbs, and replace them before winter arrives. If you’re still using older bulbs, consider upgrading to LED for better durability and efficiency. Aim for brighter bulbs (at least 300 lumens) in high-traffic areas like walkways.

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In North Dakota, where snow can pile up, it's also important to check your light fixtures' IP rating, which indicates how well they withstand the elements. Go for at least IP65-rated fixtures to handle snow and moisture, but for extreme weather, IP68 is your best bet.

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Add Extra Lights

As you inspect your yard, look for any areas that need more light—like dark corners of the driveway or entryways. Either adjust your current fixtures for better coverage or add more lights where necessary.

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Update Timers

With shorter days and long winter nights, it's time to adjust the timers on your outdoor lights. This is especially crucial for security lighting around paths or entry points. Be sure to test motion sensors, too, and adjust the sensitivity so they aren't falsely triggered by strong winds or snow. Many modern fixtures come with adjustable settings to fine-tune their performance.

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