When you need more light around your patio table and your outdoor lights just don't do the trick, try using patio umbrella lights. These lighting systems illuminate the immediate area under your patio table so you have full viewing potential. They aren't blaring but will light everything enough to be able to see clearly. They come in either strings of lights that attach to the umbrella vanes or in a ring that fits around the support pole. They will either plug into an outlet which requires an extension cord or they will require batteries. There are some however that use solar power. All types are energy efficient so you really can't go wrong with any choice.
The obvious benefit to using patio umbrella lights is the convenience of immediate light. But there are other advantages. You could try using candles but that leads to a big mess with candle wax dripping and the wick smoking, not to mention the possibility of accidental fire. Patio umbrella lighting uses LED technology so they burn longer and more efficiently. They also won't attract flying insects.
The lights that hang from the vanes of the patio umbrella shine directly onto the table. The only downside that they pose is the need for an extension cord. This can pose several issues, one being something to trip over. The upside is that the effect of the lighting transforms the atmosphere and makes it seem like natural lighting. These work exceptionally well with larger patio umbrellas.
The LED ring that fits around the support pole has its own advantages and disadvantages. This works better with smaller octagonal umbrellas. They are more energy efficient as they use LED bulbs which means you won't have to replace them as often and they are directional so you can focus them exactly where you want. The only downside is that they require batteries to operate them. This means you need to keep spare batteries close by in the event that the others die.
Another option is to go solar. Solar umbrella lights utilize a solar panel on the top of the umbrella. This requires no additional power but the sun. It may cost a bit more initially but it's a one off fee and basically pays for itself in a relatively short time. It doesn't matter which style of patio umbrella lights you choose though; they all serve their own purpose. It just depends on the size of the table.
By:Peter Flaherty
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