Light fixtures are a must when decorating a house, creating the perfect interior, or giving your rooms an aesthetic appeal. The kind of light fixtures you install determines how the interior looks, the kind of lighting you will get, and the overall cost you will have to pay.
Here’s why light fixtures are so expensive:
Light fixtures are expensive for various reasons, such as manufacturing costs, design variation, make quality, energy efficiency, and intended use. However, the cost is not just limited to the energy costs but also light fixture installation charges. The costs may also vary based on the kind of wiring you have indoors and the results you wish to achieve from the lighting design.
Why Are Lights Expensive?
Lights are expensive for a wide range of reasons. These lights come in different designs, have different power rates of consumption, and are available for different areas.
In addition, manufacturing highly quality lights increases the production, research, and labor cost, causing the overall price of a light fixture to increase. These lights are more costly if you’re looking for energy-efficient options as well. Here’s a list of factors that might impact light fixture prices.
The Type of Fixture you choose
The most significant element that alters your light fixture cost is the kind of light fixture you choose. Some fixtures have a more straightforward design, so they cost less. There’s a wide variety of light fixture options in the market that you can choose from, and each of them has its specific designs. The following are some common types of light fixtures that you will find in the market:
- Recessed lights
- Pendant lights
- Chandeliers
- Track lighting
- Wall-mounted lights
- Lightbars
Each of these lights offers benefits and drawbacks for use. However, determining the type of light fixture you require will help you set a budget for your lighting design.
Manufacturing Costs
Some light fixtures have higher manufacturing costs than others because certain sophisticated and elegant designs are harder to make and cost more. In addition, several manufacturers still use manual processes while producing light fixtures, which makes it equally challenging and costly for them.
A typical example of such light fixtures is chandeliers with intricate designs. These designs are hard to maintain and create, which contributes to their higher prices.
Make Quality
The quality of light fixtures is a significant factor that impacts prices. The better the quality of the lights, the higher the price goes. Here, it’s important that you prioritize quality since sub-par quality fixtures are more susceptible to electrical damage.
Light manufacturers provide a wide range of choices for their light fixtures. Also, light fixtures are more affordable when bought in bulk. Of course, buying in bulk is not possible for everyone, so they pay higher prices as a result.
The Area Design
The design of the area you choose has a long-term impact on the lighting cost. Hence, you’ll have to cover the maintenance costs accordingly. For example, a larger area means you require more lighting, increasing the cost. In addition, property owners are likelier to spend on their maintenance costs if the area designs are different, require more lights, etc.
Existing Wiring in the Area
The kind of wiring you have in the property has a long-term impact on the resulting lighting costs. For instance, installing lights in a room with
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a significant concern for homeowners these days. Energy costs are increasing globally, and installers (residential and commercial need affordable options). The demand for energy-efficient lights is growing because they help save costs in the long run.
Initially, these lights may cost a bit more, but they are still an excellent option for long-term savings. Manufacturers understand the need for energy efficiency, so they’re constantly developing models to create energy-efficient options like LED lights.
Now, let’s talk about why these LED light fixtures are so expensive to install.
Why Are LED Light Fixtures More Expensive?
Replacing CFLs (compact fluorescent lights) with LEDs may be a good option, but installers need to prepare for extra costs. It is because LED lights cost substantially more. Even so, LEDs are the most efficient lighting option you will find in the market.
These lights consume the least amount of power compared to halogens, CFLs. Thus, you eventually recover the extra cost you incur initially when you save on energy costs in the long run. Let’s talk about factors that make LEDs more expensive yet an ideal choice for installation.
Longer Lifespan
Maintenance costs are a big concern for light fixture installation. When you have more lights, it’s highly likely that you’ll need regular light maintenance. Fortunately, LED lights have an average lifespan of 15,000 hours, and installers do not have to replace them often, which can help cut down costs in the long run.
Higher Production Costs
The production costs for LED lights are significantly higher but reduce over time. A typical example is microwave technology, the prices for which reduced with time. The increasing demand for LED lights will eventually drop the production costs of LED lights, making them affordable for long-term applications.
Evolving Technology
Unlike standard CFL lights, LED lighting technology is changing with time. These lights have transformed from an affordable light source and now come with additional features. For instance, you can seamlessly control lights, making them more efficient and user-friendly. Therefore, the price of the LEDs will increase as you upgrade to models with additional features. The following are the top three factors that impact technology evolution costs:
- Research
- Labor
- Equipment
Electricity Saving
LED light fixtures may sound fancy and expensive, but they’re a practical option in the long run. These bulbs have a cost-friendly technology and design, making them ideal for long-term use. LED bulbs also consume nearly 80% less energy than other light options.
For instance, a 100-watt incandescent bulb produces light equal to a 10-watt or 15-watt LED light bulb. When you save nearly 80% on energy costs, it slowly adds up, so you save a lot in the long run.
Experts believe that LED light bulbs will continue to gain popularity until they become the primary indoor and outdoor lighting options. The market has already experienced tremendous growth, which has helped achieve better results.
Are Expensive Light Fixtures worth It?
Consumers can easily find a wide variety of light fixtures in the market. Many of these light fixtures are affordable, while others are expensive. Most people prefer affordable light fixtures, but there are a few reasons to choose expensive light fixtures for your next light installation.
Better Material Quality
The material quality can help you avoid future maintenance, replacement, and other costs. These light fixtures can function well for a longer time and are a more practical choice for light fixture installation.
Wider Design Variety
Reputable companies have a higher market demand and offer more design options. Expensive light fixtures have more customizable options for consumers willing to pay the price.
Store Specific Lighting
Affordable light fixtures are available almost anywhere, but buyers can find expensive ones in specific places such as specialty lighting stores. Distinct availability makes the light fixtures exclusive and easier to pick with professional assistance.
Bottom Line
Choosing the ideal light fixture is challenging, but the pointers in this guide can help you. Light fixtures are expensive due to their production cost, energy efficiency, and other features that make them unique. If you feel you need more assistance with light fixture installation, our guides can help.
