What Types of Night Lights are Available?

Most of us probably associate night lights with those simple, low-wattage bulbs encased in a plastic casing that plug directly into the wall. The plastic cover or case might add a bit of decoration or character to embellish their room for children's rooms. Today, however, many types of night lights are available, including plug-in, projector, tabletop, built-in, and even smart options.

How Much Energy Do Night Lights Use?

It might seem like leaving night lights on throughout the night could add a significant amount to your monthly energy bill. However, night lights (even incandescent options) use very little energy. A typical incandescent night light might use anywhere between 2 and 7 watts of power. LEDs and electroluminescent night lights often use less than a single watt. For a minimal price difference, LED lighting almost always makes economic and environmental sense.

How Long Do Night Lights Last?

The durability of night lights will largely depend on the type of bulb that they use. Incandescent night lights not only use more energy but will also burn out much quicker. Night lights that use LED bulbs might be nominally more expensive but will last up to 40 times longer while using much less energy. 

LED bulbs do not emit heat like incandescent bulbs. This feature can reduce the probability of accidental burns, which is notable if you use a night light in a child's room. Keep in mind that the cheap, $1 night light that you pick up at your local discount store will probably only last a year or two before needing to be replaced. Better designed night lights should last for at least ten years due to their more durable design.

How To Install a Built-In Night Light

To install these built-in night lights on your outlets, simply cut the power momentarily to the outlet at your breaker box, and remove the cover plate. Next, insert the guide light façade over the outlet (it will look just like the previous outlet cover. Secure the outlet cover with screws, and that's it. These built-in night lights rely on small motion sensors and can be programmed to only turn on with movement if you prefer. You can also find built-in night lights for light switches, so you don't have to struggle to find them when entering a dark room. Many custom home builders and remodelers can also install built-in night lights along baseboards, stairwells, or other parts of your home. This option is significantly more expensive.

Do Smart Night Lights Exist?

The Internet of Things (IoT) and smart home technology are making their way into almost every aspect of our homes. From doorbells to window shades and everything in between. Though there are privacy concerns that should be considered, smart home technology, when properly used, can improve the efficiency, comfort, and livability of our houses. Smart night lights have recently begun to hit the market. These innovative products allow homeowners to control their nightlights via a dedicated smartphone app. You can program your smart night light to emit certain brightness levels, change colors, and turn off and on at certain hours of the day. Some smart night lights incorporate alarms, motion sensors and can even respond to voice commands.