Do LED lights attract bugs? - 10 ways to prevent them
There is an abundance of LED light options on the market, which are very popular in many UK homes. However, we can all agree that we aren’t fond of bugs sneaking their way into our house.
Bugs are drawn to various lighting settings like moths are to a flame. Traditional bulbs and lights tend to attract more insects as they emit UV light. While LED lights may attract fewer bugs than traditional lighting options, they are not entirely bug-proof.
If you are nervous about attracting them into your home, you can opt for lights that have warm-coloured bulbs, such as yellow lighting. However, if you want to be able to buy the most colourful options on offer and avoid sending a home invitation out to your local insects, then keep on reading for the best tips.
Common misconceptions
Before we begin, we assure you that LED lights won’t attract unwelcome guests more than traditional lighting would.
The average bulb emits more heat than that of an LED bulb. Many bugs are attracted to heat. Therefore, you won’t find it any more of a problem once you install these lights in your home. The level of attraction also depends on factors such as the intensity and colour of the light.
Whilst many believe these lights harm insects, that isn’t the case. They may be less attracted to them, but there isn’t anything in the product that causes harm to bugs.
10 ways to prevent bugs from being attracted to LED lights
Efficient pest control is necessary for all households. Follow these top tips to get the best experience out of your new lights.
1. Use Yellow or Warm-Coloured LEDs
Yellow or warm-coloured LEDs are less attractive to bugs than cool white or blue LEDs because these colours are at the end of the light spectrum.
Warm-toned bulbs (around 2700K) are less visible to insects, meaning they won’t be able to locate the light source and infest your bedroom.
2. Use LED Lights with a Narrow Spectrum
LEDs that emit a narrow spectrum of light are less attractive to bugs. This is especially true if they minimise or eliminate UV light. The ability to customise the light spectrum allows you to tailor your lighting to deter specific bugs.
For example, if an insect is less attracted to red light, you can choose an LED that emits a narrow spectrum focused on the red wavelength. They are also more energy-efficient than their broader spectrum counterparts as less heat and light are emitted.
3. Remove sources of still water
If you have LED lights hung up in your back garden, porch area, or near your garden shed, remove any sources of still water away from the light source.
Standing water serves as a breeding ground for many insects, including mosquitoes. By eliminating these water sources, you will reduce the amount of breeding and, thus the amount of insects that generate around your lights.
You can now enjoy a peaceful summer night in your garden without pesky intruders.
4. Install Bug Zappers Near the Lights
Hanging bug zappers around your lights will capture the insects entering your home, preventing them from flying around and creating a nest in your room.
This, unfortunately, doesn’t eradicate the problem. However, it does reduce it.
5. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Insects such as spiders and cockroaches often enter the home through small cracks in your walls, windows, and ceiling. Sealing these gaps will prevent them from crawling into your living space and locating the light sources around your home.
6. Use Timers or Motion Sensors
Timers and motion sensors can ensure that lights are only on when needed, reducing the time they have to attract bugs. Phototatcic bugs will be disrupted by the on-off nature of the lights, keeping them away.
This is a simple fix that comes pre-installed with most LED products. It is also beneficial for your electricity bill.
7. Natural repellents and herbs
Natural oils, such as lavender and citronella, can act as bug repellents, which is an easy and affordable solution.
Place these oils around your lights or add potted plants such as basil, rosemary, and lemongrass around your home and in your garden. You can also purchase herbal-infused sprays around your home.
8. Install Screens or Nets
These act as a physical barrier to prevent insects from entering your home and nestling behind your lights. This allows you to keep your windows open for ventilation in the summertime without worrying about bugs finding their way in.
Modern screens and nets come in various styles and materials, allowing you to maintain the aesthetic appeal of your home while keeping bugs at bay.
9. Install ceiling fans
The movement of air generated by ceiling fans disorients bugs, making it difficult for them to fly around the room and locate the light source.
They can also reduce the room's heat level and dispel human scents that attract insects such as mosquitoes. Ceiling fans can come in many different styles, providing a cooling system for your home.
10. Regular Maintenance of your LED lights
Keeping up to date with house cleaning and dusting around your lights will reduce the amount of dirt, dust, and grim build-up that insects are attracted to.
It is beneficial to check and replace your bulbs when necessary to ensure they are as efficient as possible, reducing bugs.