RV Patio Lights: Another Reason To Buy An Awning

April 11, 2012 By

By and large, RV patio lights come as bulbs or fixtures that can be hooked up to the retractable awning available for RVs. The decision to purchase an awning depends on how the RV is used. If it is used to travel long distances, stopping frequently but only overnight, then it is possible the awning would not really help during the daytime, as the only time one would use it would be at night.

When parked at night, the awning still provides a useful service. RVs tend to look the same, and specialized RV lights, which are easily attached to the awning, can make the trailer stand out from the crowd, helping to serve as a beacon for any passengers who wander out into the park, as well as attracting interested visitors to see the camper.

That is not mentioning the advantages of having a light to read by, or to see other campers by. There are some alternatives to the type that affix to the awning, however, and these range from kerosene powered lamps ($10) to any number of similarly priced lanterns.

All of these appliances are relatively easy to store. Kerosene lamps, while not as safe as electric lanterns, still pack away for travel easily with a spare case of kerosene. Battery operated lanterns will last long enough to be almost as convenient as the awning bulbs.

Still, there are some better alternatives. Garden lights, which stick into the ground, may be found fairly easily, and these may be used around the perimeter of the RV. These can provide just as impressive a display as the RV patio lights, and it is more unique to choose this option. The downside is cost, as the number of devices required by this sort of display would add up to a fairly significant figure. Sets of lamps may be purchased for $40 and up.

But neither of these options are as impressive as the RV awning lights which hang from the awning, nor is there the variety. Awning lights are popular, which results in increased innovation and unique design. An added advantage to the awning lights is that they can use the canvas ceiling as a reflector, casting ambient light on the area rather than shining directly into everyone’s faces. For instance, one can opt for a minimal ambient light that attaches to the middle of the awning and emits two bars of yellow light across the bottom of the canvas, reflecting onto campers with a soft comforting glow.

If the RV does have an awning, then there are a whole lot of options to choose from, ranging in price from globes that hang ($10) to more fine-tuned displays. Making one’s own RV patio light is always an option, for which one only needs a set of awning hooks and any patio string lights one would choose.

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The Advantages Of Solar Patio Lights & Lanterns

April 11, 2012 By

With the environmentally friendly initiatives spreading across the US and Europe, solar technology is rapidly increasing in popularity, with innovations in technical aspects and design evolving in accordance with the increasing demand. For that reason, a host of new solar patio lights are now gracing the indomitable shelves of the world wide web. Still, solar technology is more costly than the alternatives. Is it worth the price, or is it better to wait a bit longer?

There are some indisputable advantages to using solar patio lighting. Changing to the new technology with a solar patio light means: no more wires running across the deck, and no more batteries. Solar powered devices recharge their own batteries, which only need changing every 2 years or so, entailing a significant reduction in hassle/danger.

Solar power is more environmentally friendly for the same reason that it is more economically friendly to you. Because these devices use their own, natural power source, they do not require ‘feeding.’ The amount of money required to power a 100 watt light bulb for 10 hours is anywhere between 5 and 10 cents, so a solar outdoor lighting system can save you a number of dollars per month.

Solar powered patio lights are also high-tech and trendy. While this may actually be a disadvantage for some consumers, depending on the style of the backyard, it is an important asset among younger crowds who value environmentally-friendly thinking and initiatives. Solar-powered appliances tend to imbue their owner with a progressive, distinguished, sharp air, the use of which should not be underestimated at social functions.

Most models use photo sensors to turn on automatically when the sun has set. This feature makes them extremely easy to use, as well as a deterrent to crime. Battery charge typically lasts between 8 and 10 hours after nightfall, which continues the luminescent display until sunrise, or close enough to it to ensure that all unsavory activity has ceased. There are solar spot lights that are particularly geared for these purposes.

But there are some disadvantages associated with solar power, though the market is in the process of adapting to them, lessening their impact, etc. For example, previously, solar power patio lights employed the use of bulbs that broke frequently. Now, however, almost all models use LED lights, which conserve power and have extended life-spans. Another perk of using LED lights is not attracting insects to the sources of light.

Another historical problem has been the fragility of solar panels, which were not designed to withstand the elements. Now, however, most outdoor solar patio lights incorporate the solar panel into the light itself, rather than having an attachment that sticks out at an odd, unwieldy angle. These innovations have made solar power as durable as the alternatives.

The market has, at this point, expanded to such an array of devices that each has a unique purpose, whether it be for the patio, tableset, pool, yard, path, or flower patch. Many of these more specific models cost quite a bit more than their counterparts, but there are basic models available at cheap prices that will cover all of a consumer’s basic needs.

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The Ultimate Guide To Tiki Torches

April 11, 2012 By

Tiki torches come in a variety of styles and are made from a wide array of materials, including bamboo, cane, ceramic, aluminum and copper.

Traditionally made from bamboo, tiki torches originated in the Polynesian culture and have since become popular in contemporary society.

Often used at island-themed parties to enhance the ambiance and create a tropical atmosphere, tiki torches are also utilized as decoration on a patio or around a pool. They can transform a simple patio into an island paradise.

Please click for prices on the full range of Tiki Torches

If you are new to the use of tiki torches, read on to find out exactly what they are, why you should choose them over other forms of patio lighting, their disadvantages, how to ensure they are used safely, which fuel to choose and a mini buying guide.

But first take a look at our top picks for tiki torches in the areas of cheap, bronze, stainless steel, elegant, solar powered and make your own.

 

Top Picks

 

Cheap – Classic Bamboo Tiki Torches

Inexpensively priced at around $6 you can buy this traditional bamboo tiki torch with a refillable fuel canister, fiberglass wick and a fire retardant finish. These would be the perfect patio lights addition to a luau.

Please click for the current price

 

Bronze – Set Of Two 36? Deck Torches

These affordable and attractive dark bronze tiki torches can burn for between 6 and 8 hours with their 12 oz oil canister. And they really are dark bronze, not the light color they appear in the picture. They are sturdily designed and rust resistant to a degree although you should probably put them indoors over the winter. They come with c-clamps to allow for easy fitting deck lighting. Buy a few pairs to deck out your deck!

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Stainless Steel – Pack Of Two 65? Cylinder Shaped Tiki Torches

For a more contemporary style stainless steel tiki, this pack of two tall torches will add sophistication to your outdoor space. The fiberglass wick lasts forever and the snuffer cap is attractive. Just wipe off any oil drips from the stainless steel before lighting.

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Elegant – Set Of 2 Strathwood Pewter Finish Torchieres

For the ultimate in elegance, these two 72? rust-resistant, funnel shaped lamps add stylish functionality to your patio or deck. The lamps sit in black iron curved brackets which sit atop black iron stands.

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Solar Tiki Torch – Paradise Lighting

These solar patio lights combine the native tiki look with modern lighting. They offer you the tropical island feel without having to use open flames or burning oil. The solar batteries charge during the day and give out between 6-8 hours of realistic, flickering amber LED light at night. The frosted enclosure makes it look as though a candle is held within. Just make sure they are placed somewhere that gets full sunshine during the day.

Please click for the current price

 

Make Your Own – Copper Wine Bottle Torch Kit

If you’re interested in making your own tiki torch, this kit takes any empty wine bottle and turns it into one. It comes complete with a five foot copper coated stake that can be height adjusted, a dual prong base for extra stability, a long lasting reusable wick and copper bottle plug. The only problem is you’ll have to drink some wine, to get an empty bottle!

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What Are Tiki Torches?

Measuring about five feet in height, outdoor tiki torches are decorative poles topped with a fuel reservoir and wick. The stem of a tiki torch is hollow and can be sunk into the earth or put in a pot for more temporary use. The fuel reservoir itself is typically either a metal or plastic container that holds lamp oil, paraffin oil or citronella oil, housed in a woven holder. The bottle’s lid, which is equipped with a metal top and an attached cap, holds a bound cord wick which hangs down into the tiki fuel. To extinguish the torch, the metal cap is placed over the burning wick. Usually, the cap stays closed over the wick when the torch is not being used in order to protect it from dampness.

 

Why Choose Tiki Torches

Tiki torches should feature somewhere in your patio lighting plans. They can be placed anywhere as they do not need any electric power source, they can be moved around easily, they produce natural rather than artificial light and give that tropical island or party feel to your outdoors. You don’t even need a garden to use them as you can just anchor them in deep plant pots and place them around your patio or deck.

 

Disadvantages Of Tiki Torches

The main disadvantages of tiki torches arise from them using real flames. Obviously this can be dangerous if safety precautions are not followed.

 

Tiki Torch Safety

  • Ensure your tiki torches are fixed well into the ground so that they cannot topple over. Push them firmly into soft earth and use large rocks to keep them secure.
  • Keep the wick trimmed so that there is less opportunity for any spilled fuel to catch fire.
  • Only fill the fuel container to about two thirds of its capacity, again to reduce the potential problem of spilled fuel.
  • Do not place tiki torches near to anything flammable, including trees with overhanging branches, bushes, people, kids or pets. Keep them a safe distance from the area you plan to be using.
  • Ensure you have a working fire extinguisher to hand. Accidents do happen so it never hurts to be prepared.

 

Which Tiki Torch Fuel To Choose

Your choice of fuel will to some extent be determined either by where your tiki torch will be situated, the type of torch, what is available to you and what your intended use for the torch is.

Paraffin oil/kerosene – is an odorless, smokeless oil so will allow your tiki torches to provide light without interfering with yours or your guests enjoyment.

Citronella – is used when you want to repel any unwanted bugs which is quite often, making it the most popular fuel. Even if not used for lighting, tiki torches with Citronella are often found being utilized just for this purpose. It does have a mild lemony smell though.

Gas – gas powered tiki torches can be found but the fact that they need to be connected to a tank makes them less than ideal. They do have the advantage of being able to burn more or less continuously, but do require more maintenance to keep clean.

Solar power – in recent years, modern tiki torches have evolved, using solar energy rather than an open flame. These more eco-friendly, convenient torches use a solar panel that converts sunlight into energy, thereby charging the batteries and producing light. Because there is no fire, solar tiki torches can be placed anywhere in the yard and withstand a windy evening. However, solar-powered tiki lights tend to emit a dimmer light than that of their traditional counterparts.

 

Tiki Torches Buying Guide

There a plusses and minuses associated with each of the different types of tiki torch but here are a few things to consider before purchase:

Material – Bamboo and cane, while inexpensive, tend not to last as long as their sturdier metal counterparts. Aluminum, on the other hand, is prone to rusting over time. Copper weathers well, changing its patina over the years, and becoming uniquely antique in appearance.

Price – Tiki torches vary in price depending upon the style and material used in their construction. Bamboo models are typically inexpensive, starting at under $5 while more expensive models, like aluminum or copper, can cost up to $40.

Design – This will generally be dependent upon your personal taste and what other lighting or furniture you already have on your patio. Don’t forget to consider table top versions as well as the tall stake variety.

Features – Most tiki torches come with snuffer caps, but consider other features that may be on offer such as adjustable heights, extra anchoring prongs for stability etc.

Fuel – Ensure you can use your preferred fuel in the torch that you choose.

Number – How many do you need? Make sure you know where you are going to place them before you buy them and then buy them all in one go as you may not be able to get matching ones later on.

 

Get Your Tiki Torches Now …

Tiki torches add a warm weather atmosphere to the outdoors. You can consider them for an early evening beach wedding, to illuminate your garden’s entry ways or pathways or as party props for a jungle theme or oceanside luau. They are the perfect way to set the mood and tone, while providing ambient lighting at the same time. As the tiki torch flames dance and flicker in the warm, evening breeze, you can almost hear the gentle sounds of waves lapping the beach. If you’re one of the fortunate few that live in the tropics, then this scenario is probably second nature to you. For the rest of us, however, we have to live through our imaginations, with our backyard tiki torches.

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