Indoor vs Outdoor Lighting: Are They Interchangeable?

When lighting needs replacement, it is important to pay attention on whether the light bulbs are for indoor or outdoor use. Outdoor light bulbs are more variable. Typically, they are interchangeable for indoor and outdoor use. In contrast, indoor lights are not designed to withstand outdoor temperature changes. Discover which light bulbs are for indoor or outdoor use, or both.

You can use some indoor lights outside, but it depends on the type of light bulb you have. Light bulbs come with a UL rating that indicates where they can be used. These ratings are helpful in ensuring the safety of your home lighting setup.

How to Use Indoor Lights Outside?

It’s important to have adequate light in your outdoor spaces in order to keep your home safe and illuminate outdoor spaces that you want to use at night. If you choose to use indoor lights outside, ensure they are completely covered or encased so they can’t be exposed to any moisture. If there is a chance that your light source may be exposed to moisture, make sure the bulb is UL listed for damp or wet locations.Do not use fluorescent lights outdoors, as they may not work and could pose a safety threat.

UL Rating

First, the best way to figure out whether a light bulb can be utilized outdoors is by discovering the UL rating. Generally, most lighting fixtures are rated and tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Also, UL has a specific rating for particular locations as well. Below are the different locations and with the corresponding UL rating:

• UL Listed- Dry Locations: labeled: “UL Listed”
  • includes living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways, kitchens, most bathroom areas
• UL Listed- Damp Locations: labeled “Suitable for Damp Locations” or “Suitable for Wet Locations”

• • includes bathtubs, showers, indoor pool areas, utility rooms

• UL Listed- Wet Locations: labeled “Suitable for Wet Locations”

• • used both wet indoor and outdoor locations
  • includes gazebos, walkways, open patio and decks, outdoor dining areas

Discover which types of light bulbs can be used indoors, outdoors, or both:

• LED Lights: used both indoors and outdoors
• Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs: used indoors and outdoors
  • check the max temperature the bulb can endure from its packaging for outdoor use
• Incandescent Flood Light Bulbs: used both indoors and outdoors if not in contact with water.

• • used outdoors: incandescent flood light bulbs created to withstand elements.

• Halogen Spotlights and Flood Light Bulbs: used indoors and outdoors
• Xenon Bulbs: used both indoors and outdoors (double check packaging for particular use).
• Metal Halide Light Bulbs: used indoors and outdoors.

Using Outdoor Lighting Fixtures Indoors

In some cases, you may want to use an outdoor lighting fixture indoors. This can be a unique design choice for any room. In particular, you may want to use hanging outdoor fixtures to bring a unique look to an indoor dining room. Or you may just like the look of an outdoor sconce to use in any part of your home.

The good news is that there is absolutely nothing wrong with using an outdoor lighting indoors. If a lamp or fixture can withstand the elements outdoors, it can definitely be used safely indoors.

Underwater Light Fixtures

If you are going to use a fixture underwater, such as in a swimming pool or water feature, you will need an aquatic light. Even lights UL listed for wet conditions are not fully waterproof. Lights submerged in water can be a great way to highlight a water feature. Even a little bit of light can illuminate a fountain or small pond. Some homeowners choose colored lights for a special effect. However, any light that will be completely submerged in water must be built specifically for that purpose. Night Vision Outdoor Lighting is happy to work with you to create the perfect lighting for your water feature.

Are They Interchangeable?

So, now that you know more about both indoor and outdoor lighting in Scottsdale, AZ, are they interchangeable?

The short answer is maybe. Specific types of bulbs and fixtures are designed for either indoor or outdoor use for a reason. You should always choose weather-resistant bulbs and fixtures for outdoor use. However, it is easier to use outdoor lighting for indoor spaces, especially if these spaces are transitional. An example would be a screened porch or Florida room. Likewise, in these types of spaces – or very sheltered porches, patios, etc. – you could also use indoor lighting. Just know that there is a greater risk of damage to these types of bulbs and fixtures, especially if your area sees a lot of wind, rain, and other inclement weather