Lighting and heating outdoors: 5 frequently common questions answered
From solar lighting to strings of twinkling festoon bulbs, garden lighting is an excellent way to transform your outside space. With autumn on our doorstep, now is the ideal time to extend summer evenings in the garden whilst being kinder to the environment.
Here are five common questions about outdoor lighting and heating, as answered by the experts...
Is regular outdoor lighting wildlife-friendly?
Not always – it's often disruptive, according to the Royal Horticultural Society. Artificial light in gardens can disturb birds' sleep cycles, meaning some begin singing before dawn; it encourages robins to extend their feeding period into the night; nocturnal insects such as moths, which navigate using natural light sources, can become disorientated.
Ideally, use solar lighting with lower lumens (light output) in warm white, yellow or amber. Position close to the ground to create a soft glow, which is less likely to disturb wildlife – or annoy the neighbours.
What are the advantages of solar lighting?
Solar-powered lighting is cleaner, greener and more energy-efficient than traditional lighting. It's also a practical, energy-efficient way to light up a greenhouse because it doesn't require wiring or mains power. Solar motion-sensor lights also save on energy as they only come on when needed.
Some products also include sonic and ultrasonic sound (inaudible to humans) to humanely deter animals such as foxes, badgers and moles from your garden.
How do solar lights work?
The lights contain a small solar 'cell' that absorbs sunlight and turns it into direct current electricity, which is then stored in a rechargeable battery.As it gets dark, a light sensor triggers the light to turn on. The stored energy is converted into an alternating current that powers the light and illuminates your outdoor space. It turns off as it senses daylight.
Are chimineas and fire pits an eco-friendly way to stay warm outdoors?
There are downsides. These solid-fuel heaters burn wood, charcoal and pellets and release carbon dioxide, although buying charcoal or dry wood from sustainable sources lessens the impact on the environment.
Low-smoke heat logs made from compressed sawdust or other biomass waste are more energy-dense and burn longer than regular wood, making them a more sustainable choice.
Another option that's worth considering is a fire pit fuelled by bioethanol. This natural, emission-free renewable liquid fuel produces real flames, giving the ambience of an open fire minus the smoke and sparks.
Am I OK to use a patio heater?
Gas patio heaters use convection to warm the air, emitting carbon dioxide and waste energy into the atmosphere. Reduce your environmental impact by using an electric model instead. These work predominantly by infrared radiation.
'Infrared shortwave heaters deliver heat directly to objects and surfaces, minimising energy waste and maximising efficiency,' says Irma Stevens, CEO of Mensa Heating. 'A shorter warm-up time and precise heat direction reduce carbon footprints by more than 89 per cent.'
The world's first zero-carbon patio heater is in development: Solar Polar's Solar Flower will capture thermal energy in 'petals' angled towards the sun to provide heating, lighting and phone charging.
In the meantime, though, let's not forget the most eco-friendly way of all to stay warm on a chilly summer's evening – extra layers, rugs and blankets!
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