Permanent eave lights that attach to the exterior of your home are becoming more popular. But are they worth the effort and cost?Every model of outdoor lights requires an IP (weatherproofing) rating to withstand outdoor conditions. If a model doesn’t have this rating, it’s best to avoid purchasing it. Typically, the control box has a lower rating than the rest of the lights, so it’s crucial to place it in a less exposed area. Ensure you have an outdoor outlet and consider its location as it may limit your installation options.
When choosing a set of lights, look for one that offers a variety of installation options, including adhesive and drilled mounting. The type of installation you need will depend on your home’s design and materials. For instance, adhesive mounting is ideal for homes where drilling is not an option. WIRED reviewer Kat Merck recommends sets with screw-on holders for puck-style permanent lights.
It’s essential to have control over individual lights. Some cheaper models may not offer this feature or may make it difficult to customize. Easy individual controls are crucial to avoid frustration with the design results. This feature is similar to the design controls found on smart bulbs and smart string lights.
A good app is also vital for controlling individual lights and accessing other features. Govee and Eufy, two of our favorite brands for permanent outdoor lights, offer user-friendly apps with preloaded light themes. These brands also produce other high-quality products, making them trustworthy. Lepro’s lights are more affordable, but their app requires extra steps to access controls. Lumary’s app, on the other hand, was challenging for our tester.
Most people prefer to use these lights during fall and winter, as they can enhance Halloween and Christmas decorations with colorful holiday scenes. The shorter days also provide more nighttime hours to enjoy these lights. They can also add a festive touch to your home during major sports events like the Super Bowl and the World Cup, or smaller holidays like St. Patrick’s Day or the Fourth of July. These lights can enhance your home’s curb appeal year-round or add a touch of flair to your outdoor parties. However, if you live in an HOA, you might need to check the rules about displaying lights regularly. Regardless of how you use them, there’s no wrong time of year to enjoy these lights.
