One of the most effective principles in home design is symmetry. A balanced look is naturally pleasing to the eye and makes a space feel more intentional and put-together. This is especially true for your home's exterior. Placing matching lights on either side of your front door or garage is a classic design trick that instantly creates a sense of harmony and welcome. Instead of hunting for two individual lights and hoping they’re a perfect match, an outdoor wall lighting 2-pack provides a foolproof solution. You get a guaranteed cohesive set that simplifies the shopping process and delivers a professional, balanced look every time.
Key Takeaways
- Choose for Durability, Not Just Design: Your lights need to survive Canadian weather. Look for wet-rated fixtures made from materials like powder-coated aluminum and choose LEDs for long-term energy savings and less maintenance.
- Let Your Home's Style Guide You: The right lights should feel like a natural extension of your home. Match the fixture's style and finish to your architecture and existing hardware for a seamless, high-end look.
- Add Security Through Smart Lighting: A well-lit home is a safer home. Features like motion sensors and automated schedules act as a powerful deterrent and provide peace of mind, all while adding modern convenience.
What Are Outdoor Wall Lighting 2-Packs?
An outdoor wall lighting 2-pack is a set of two matching light fixtures designed specifically for your home's exterior. Think of them as the perfect pair to frame your front door, flank your garage, or illuminate a back patio. These aren't your average indoor lights; they are built to be durable and weather-resistant, ready to handle everything from summer rainstorms to Canadian winters. You’ll find them crafted from sturdy materials that prevent rust and wear over time, ensuring they look great for years to come.
The beauty of these packs is that they take the guesswork out of creating a balanced and polished exterior. Instead of searching for two separate lights that might not quite match, you get a perfectly coordinated set. Whether your home’s style is modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, there’s a 2-pack to match. From sleek, minimalist sconces to classic, lantern-style fixtures, the variety of lighting available makes it easy to find a design that complements your home's architecture and your personal taste. It’s a straightforward way to add both function and style to your outdoor spaces.
Why Buy Them in Pairs?
Buying outdoor wall lights in a 2-pack is one of the easiest ways to create a cohesive and symmetrical look for your home's exterior. Placing a matching fixture on each side of an entryway or garage door instantly adds a sense of balance and intention, making your home feel more welcoming and thoughtfully designed. This simple design choice significantly enhances curb appeal. Beyond aesthetics, purchasing a 2-pack is often more cost-effective than buying two individual fixtures separately. It also simplifies the shopping process, allowing you to find the perfect style once and be done, ensuring a flawless match without the extra effort.
What to Look for in Quality Outdoor Wall Lights
When you’re shopping for outdoor wall lights, it’s easy to get swept up in all the beautiful designs. But finding the perfect pair is about more than just looks. You’re looking for fixtures that will not only complement your home but also stand up to the elements and perform beautifully for years. Think of it as an investment in your home's curb appeal and security. Let’s walk through the key things to consider so you can choose with confidence.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Here in Canada, our weather doesn’t mess around. From heavy snow and freezing rain to intense summer sun, your outdoor lights need to be tough. The first thing to check is the material. Look for fixtures made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials like powder-coated aluminum, stainless steel, or solid brass. These can handle moisture and temperature swings without rusting or degrading.
Also, pay attention to the fixture’s wet or damp rating. A "wet-rated" light is essential for any area directly exposed to rain or snow, like an uncovered porch or garage. This rating means the fixture is sealed to keep water out of the electrical components, ensuring both safety and longevity. Investing in well-built, weather-resistant outdoor wall lights means you won’t be replacing them every few seasons.
Light Output and Efficiency
The right lighting can transform your home’s exterior, making it feel warm and welcoming. When it comes to light output, think about function. Do you need bright light to illuminate your front door and keyhole, or are you looking for a softer, ambient glow along a wall? The brightness of a bulb is measured in lumens, and most outdoor wall lights do well in the 400-800 lumen range for general purpose lighting.
For efficiency, LED lights are the clear winner. They use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, which is great for your hydro bill. Plus, they last for tens of thousands of hours, so you won’t be climbing a ladder to change bulbs in the middle of winter. Many modern fixtures have integrated LEDs, meaning the light source is built right in for a sleek, low-maintenance design.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
Now for the fun part: style! Your outdoor lights are like the finishing touch on your home’s exterior, so you want them to reflect your personal taste and your home’s architecture. Think about the overall vibe you’re going for. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design, the rustic charm of a farmhouse look, or the timeless appeal of a traditional lantern?
Take a look at your home’s existing features, like your front door hardware, house numbers, and window trim. Choosing lights that echo these finishes and styles will create a cohesive, polished look. Whether you’re coordinating with your existing home décor or creating a whole new look, the right lights will make your home shine.
Smart Technology Integration
If you love convenience, smart lighting is a feature you’ll definitely want to consider. Smart outdoor wall lights connect to your home’s Wi-Fi, allowing you to control them directly from an app on your phone. You can turn them on or off, dim the brightness, and even change the color temperature from anywhere.
This technology is incredibly practical. You can set schedules so your lights automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn, ensuring you always come home to a well-lit entryway. Many smart lights also include motion sensors for added security or can be paired with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. Exploring lighting brands that offer these features can add a layer of modern functionality to your home.
Our Favourite Brands for Outdoor Lighting
When you’re shopping for outdoor lighting, the brand you choose says a lot about the quality, style, and durability you can expect. Some brands are known for their budget-friendly designs, while others are celebrated for their craftsmanship and innovative features. To help you find the perfect match, I’ve put together a list of our go-to brands that consistently deliver on both style and performance. These are the names we trust for lighting up Canadian homes.
Canada Light Shop
While we carry many incredible brands, we also stand behind our own name and the service we provide. We’re committed to offering high-quality products with excellent customer support to back them up. Our customers often tell us they appreciate the fair prices and quick, reliable delivery across the country. When you shop with us, you’re not just buying a light fixture; you’re getting a partner dedicated to helping you create a home you love. We make it simple to find exactly what you need from a huge selection of trusted names.
Hampton Bay
Hampton Bay is a fantastic choice for homeowners who want stylish outdoor lighting that is also affordable. The brand is well-known for offering a wide variety of designs that fit seamlessly with different home aesthetics, from classic to contemporary. If you're looking to update your curb appeal without a massive investment, Hampton Bay provides reliable and attractive options. Their fixtures prove that you don’t have to sacrifice style for price, making them a popular go-to for outdoor lighting projects.
Kichler
If you’re looking for innovative design and exceptional quality, Kichler is a brand worth exploring. Kichler is highly regarded for its durable and beautifully crafted outdoor lighting solutions that are built to last. Investing in a Kichler fixture means you’re getting a piece that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also engineered to withstand the elements. Their commitment to quality makes them a favorite among homeowners who want to make a long-term investment in their home’s exterior décor.
Progress Lighting
Progress Lighting excels at creating fixtures that perfectly balance function and style. The brand offers a diverse selection of outdoor lighting, ensuring you can find something that complements your home’s architecture. Customers appreciate Progress Lighting for its dependable quality and thoughtful designs that feel both timeless and current. Whether your home is traditional or modern, this brand offers versatile collections that allow for a cohesive look throughout your outdoor spaces, from the front porch to the back patio.
Globe Electric
For those who love trendy, modern designs, Globe Electric is an excellent option. This brand is known for its unique and fashion-forward outdoor lighting fixtures that come at a competitive price point. Many of their products also focus on energy efficiency, making them a smart choice for the eco-conscious homeowner. Globe Electric brings a fresh, contemporary feel to any exterior, offering everything from minimalist sconces to bold, statement-making pieces. They make it easy to add a touch of modern personality to your home.
Maxim Lighting
Maxim Lighting is recognized for its extensive and versatile range of outdoor fixtures that beautifully blend traditional and contemporary elements. This is a great brand to check out if your style falls somewhere in between. Known for quality craftsmanship, Maxim Lighting offers fixtures that feel substantial and well-made. Their collections are so broad that you’re almost guaranteed to find a 2-pack that suits your specific taste and enhances your home’s exterior hardware and finishes.
How to Choose the Perfect Outdoor Wall Lighting 2-Pack
Choosing the right outdoor wall lights is about more than just picking a style you like; it’s about creating a cohesive and welcoming first impression for your home. The perfect pair of lights will not only illuminate your entryway but also enhance your home’s architectural features and improve its security. Think of them as the finishing touch that ties your entire exterior together. Before you start browsing, it’s helpful to have a clear plan. This means thinking about what you need the lights to do, how they’ll look against your home’s facade, where they’ll be installed, and how much energy they’ll use.
Taking a moment to consider these factors will help you narrow down the options and make a choice you’ll be happy with for years to come. It’s a decision that balances function with fashion. You want lights that are bright enough to guide you to your door on a dark night but also have the right aesthetic to complement your home during the day. From modern farmhouse to industrial chic, the right fixtures will reflect your personal style while adding significant curb appeal and value to your property. Let’s walk through the key steps to find the perfect pair for your space.
Assess Your Lighting Needs
Before you fall in love with a specific design, take a moment to think about what you need your lights to accomplish. The first step is to analyze the areas that require illumination. Are you lighting up a front porch to welcome guests, flanking a garage for safety, or adding a warm glow to a back patio for evening relaxation? Walk around your property at dusk to see where the dark spots are. Consider the primary function: is it for general ambiance, task lighting to find your keys, or security to deter intruders? Knowing your goal will help you choose fixtures with the right brightness and features for each specific location.
Match Your Home's Exterior
Your outdoor lights should feel like a natural extension of your home’s style. Look for fixtures that complement your home’s architecture, whether it’s modern, traditional, or rustic. The finish is just as important as the shape. A matte black fixture can create a striking contrast on a light-coloured home, while a bronze or brass finish can add warmth to brick or stone. Pay attention to the details on your home’s existing hardware and try to coordinate the finishes for a polished look. Don’t be afraid to choose fixtures with special details like seeded glass, unique shapes, or scalloped trim to add a touch of personality.
Consider Your Installation Options
Think about the practical side of installation. The size of your lights should be proportional to the space. A common guideline for lights flanking a door is to choose fixtures that are about one-quarter to one-third the height of the door itself. This prevents them from looking too small or overwhelming the entrance. Also, consider the direction of the light. Do you want downlighting to illuminate the ground, uplighting to highlight an architectural feature, or a bit of both? The placement and light direction will dramatically affect the final look and functionality, so it’s worth planning this out before you buy.
Check for Energy Efficiency
An outdoor light is often on for hours at a time, so energy efficiency is a smart consideration for both your wallet and the environment. LED outdoor wall lights are the top choice for efficiency, as they consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. This means lower electricity bills and fewer trips up a ladder to change a burnt-out bulb. Investing in energy-efficient lighting is a practical choice that delivers long-term savings without sacrificing style or brightness, making it a win-win for any homeowner.
Popular Styles to Complement Your Home
Choosing the right outdoor lighting is about more than just brightness; it’s a key part of your home's design story. The style of your fixtures can dramatically influence your home's curb appeal, setting the tone before anyone even steps through the door. Think of your outdoor wall lights as the finishing touch that ties your entire exterior look together. Whether your home is a classic build or a modern masterpiece, there’s a
The great news is that outdoor wall lights are available in a huge range of styles, from rustic and traditional to sleek and industrial. This makes it easy to find a pair that not only illuminates your space but also enhances its architectural features. You can create a warm, welcoming glow with traditional lanterns or make a bold statement with a minimalist design. Exploring different lighting styles helps you define your home's personality and create an exterior you’ll love coming home to every day. Let’s look at some of the most popular styles to see which one best fits your vision.
Modern Farmhouse
The modern farmhouse look is all about blending rustic comfort with clean, contemporary lines. It’s warm and inviting without feeling cluttered. For outdoor lighting, this style often features gooseneck arms, barn-style shades, and simple lantern designs in dark finishes like matte black or oil-rubbed bronze. These fixtures pay homage to classic, practical designs but are updated for today’s homes. You can fully embrace this aesthetic with retro-inspired fixtures that have a vintage feel or find designs that cleverly incorporate the convenience of smart lighting systems, allowing you to control your lights from anywhere. This style perfectly balances nostalgia with modern functionality.
Industrial Chic
Inspired by the raw, utilitarian aesthetic of old factories and warehouses, industrial chic is a style that makes a confident statement. It’s defined by its use of materials like exposed metal, weathered finishes, and functional details like wire cages or prominent hardware. Industrial outdoor wall lights often feature simple, strong silhouettes that prioritize function without sacrificing form. They are a fantastic choice for modern, urban homes, converted lofts, or any space where you want to add a touch of edgy sophistication. This style proves that beauty can be found in durability and practical design, matching a wide range of home decor from minimalist to eclectic.
Transitional Elegance
If you find yourself drawn to both classic and contemporary designs, transitional style is your perfect match. It masterfully blends the timeless grace of traditional decor with the clean lines of modern aesthetics, creating a look that feels both fresh and enduring. Transitional outdoor lights often feature simple forms with classic details, avoiding the ornate feel of purely traditional fixtures and the starkness of ultra-modern ones. These fixtures often become beautiful statement pieces that provide a warm and cozy light, making your entryway feel sophisticated and welcoming. It’s a versatile style that bridges the gap between eras, ensuring your home’s exterior never looks dated.
Traditional Charm
For a look that exudes timeless elegance and a sense of history, traditional charm is the way to go. This style draws inspiration from classic architectural periods, featuring fixtures with ornate details, curved lines, and rich finishes like brass, copper, and bronze. Lantern-style lights with clear or seeded glass are a hallmark of this aesthetic. These retro-inspired fixtures pay homage to vintage designs while incorporating modern technology for better efficiency and durability. Choosing a traditional wall light is a wonderful way to add character and a stately presence to your home’s facade, creating a warm and inviting welcome for guests.
Minimalist Simplicity
Minimalist design is guided by the principle that less is more. This style strips away all unnecessary ornamentation to focus on clean lines, simple geometric shapes, and pure function. Minimalist outdoor wall lights are sleek, unobtrusive, and incredibly chic. They often come in neutral finishes like black, white, or grey and are designed to blend seamlessly with your home's architecture rather than stand out. These fixtures are the perfect choice for contemporary homes, providing effective illumination without distracting from the building's design. They create a sophisticated, uncluttered look that highlights the beauty of simplicity and intentionality in design.
Improve Security and Functionality
Beyond looking beautiful, the right outdoor lighting plays a huge role in your home's safety and usability. A well-lit exterior makes your property feel more welcoming to guests while acting as a powerful deterrent for potential intruders. By strategically placing lights, you can eliminate dark corners, guide your steps safely at night, and add a layer of security that brings peace of mind. It’s about creating a space that’s not only inviting but also secure, blending form and function seamlessly. A thoughtful lighting plan highlights your home’s best features while making your outdoor spaces safer for everyone.
Light Up Your Entryways
Your front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior, and it should be treated as such. Proper lighting here is non-negotiable for both safety and curb appeal. A well-lit entryway ensures you can see who is at your door and find your keys without fumbling in the dark. As one design expert notes, "Exterior lights should illuminate the entry points of the house." You can achieve this with a pair of stylish wall sconces flanking the door or a statement pendant overhead. This simple touch makes your home feel instantly more inviting and secure.
Use Motion Sensors and Timers
For an added layer of security and convenience, consider fixtures with motion sensors or timers. Motion-activated lights are brilliant because they illuminate an area the moment movement is detected, startling and deterring anyone who shouldn't be there. They are also incredibly practical for when you’re carrying in groceries or letting the dog out. For maximum efficiency, "choose motion-sensor lights with LED bulbs." Timers are another great tool, allowing you to automate your lighting schedule so your home always looks occupied, even when you're away.
Create a Well-Lit Perimeter
Don’t let your lighting stop at the front door. Creating a well-lit perimeter is key to comprehensive security. A common mistake is "lighting from the bottom up with the light stopping at the first roofline," which can leave upper levels and other areas in shadow. Instead, aim to wash your walls with gentle light and use path lights to illuminate walkways. This approach eliminates dark spots where intruders could hide and creates a cohesive, professionally designed look. By layering different types of outdoor lighting, you enhance your home's architecture and ensure every corner is visible and secure.
Explore Smart Lighting Features
Smart technology has completely changed the game for home lighting, and your outdoor spaces are no exception. Gone are the days of being limited to a simple on/off switch. Modern outdoor wall lights can be integrated into your smart home ecosystem, giving you an incredible amount of control over your home’s ambiance, security, and energy use. It’s not about making things more complicated; it’s about making your lighting work for you in a more intuitive way. Many of the top lighting brands now offer smart features that are surprisingly easy to set up and use, transforming your home’s exterior into a responsive and welcoming environment.
These features add a layer of convenience and security that feels like a true upgrade. You can tailor your outdoor atmosphere for any occasion, from a quiet evening on the patio to a lively backyard gathering. Think of it as giving your home a personality that can adapt to your needs. Whether you want to create a warm welcome for guests, ensure your pathways are safely lit when you arrive home after dark, or simply have peace of mind knowing your home looks occupied while you're away, smart lighting puts all that power right at your fingertips.
Control Your Lights with an App
Imagine pulling into your driveway on a dark evening and being able to turn on your porch lights before you even get out of the car. That’s the simple convenience of app-based control. Smart outdoor lighting lets you manage everything right from your phone or tablet. Through a dedicated app, you can turn lights on or off, dim them to the perfect brightness for a quiet evening on the patio, or even change their color to match a holiday theme. This remote access means you can check on your lights and adjust them from anywhere, whether you’re cozy in bed or away on vacation.
Use Voice Commands
For the ultimate hands-free experience, you can integrate your outdoor lights with a voice assistant like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple’s Siri. Once connected, managing your lighting is as easy as speaking a simple command. When you’re carrying in groceries, you can just say, “Hey Google, turn on the front door lights,” without fumbling for your phone or a switch. This feature makes it incredibly convenient to adjust your outdoor ambiance on the fly. You can dim the lights for dinner or brighten them up for guests, all with the power of your voice, making your daily routines feel just a little more seamless.
Set Schedules and Automations
One of the most practical benefits of smart lighting is the ability to set it and forget it. You can create schedules to have your lights turn on automatically at sunset and off at sunrise, so you never have to think about it again. This is fantastic for both convenience and security. By automating your lights, you can make it look like someone is home even when you’re away, which is a simple yet effective way to deter potential intruders. You can also create custom “scenes” or routines, like a “Welcome Home” setting that turns on your entryway lights as you approach, creating a safe and inviting path to your door.
How to Install and Maintain Your Lights
Once you’ve chosen the perfect outdoor wall lights, the next step is getting them up and running. Proper installation and regular care will ensure your lights look great and function perfectly for years to come. While some installations are a great weekend project, it’s also important to know when to call in a professional for help.
DIY Installation Tips
If you’re comfortable with basic home improvement tasks, installing outdoor wall lights can be a very rewarding DIY project. The most important rule is always safety first: before you do anything else, turn off the power to the fixture at your home’s circuit breaker. Once you're sure the power is off, you can get to work. Most installations will require you to connect the new fixture to existing wiring. A good guide to installing outdoor lighting can provide detailed steps, but the basics involve mounting the fixture securely to the wall and connecting the corresponding wires—typically black to black, white to white, and green (or copper) to the ground wire. Take your time and double-check your connections before restoring power.
When to Call a Professional
There’s absolutely no shame in calling an electrician. In fact, it’s the smartest and safest choice in many situations. If you’re not 100% confident in your ability to work with electrical wiring, it’s best to hire a professional. You should also call for help if you’re installing a light where there isn’t any existing wiring, as this involves running new cables through walls. Other red flags include old, frayed, or confusing wiring at the installation point. Additionally, some local building codes require a licensed electrician for outdoor electrical work. Ontario's Electrical Safety Authority has great resources on why it's crucial to hire a licensed pro for your safety and peace of mind.
A Simple Guide to Cleaning and Care
To keep your outdoor lights shining brightly, a little maintenance goes a long way. Give your fixtures a gentle cleaning once or twice a year to remove dust, pollen, and grime that can build up and dim their glow. Start by turning off the power. Then, simply wipe the fixture down with a soft, damp cloth and a mild solution of soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the finish. This is also a great time to check your bulbs and replace any that have burned out. Following a simple cleaning routine, like the one in this quick video tutorial, will keep your home’s exterior looking sharp.
Find the Best Value for Your Budget
Finding the perfect outdoor wall lights is all about balancing your budget with quality and style. The great news is that with a huge range of prices on the market, you can find beautiful and durable options no matter what you plan to spend. Think of it as an investment in your home’s curb appeal and security. Whether you’re looking for a simple, affordable fix or a high-end designer statement, there’s a 2-pack out there that will fit your home and your wallet perfectly. The key is to know what to look for in each price category to get the most value for your money.
Budget-Friendly Options
You don’t need to spend a fortune to light up your home’s exterior. If you’re working with a tight budget, you can find simple and functional 2-packs, with some options available for under $75. These are great for getting the job done without a major financial commitment. When shopping in this range, my best advice is to pay close attention to the product details. Look for powder-coated finishes and sturdy glass, and always check the weather-resistance rating. A fixture that can withstand a Canadian winter is a much better deal in the long run, even if it costs a few dollars more upfront.
Mid-Range Selections
For most homeowners, the mid-range category is the sweet spot. Here, you’ll find an incredible variety of styles, from modern farmhouse to industrial chic, typically ranging from $75 to $400. This is where you start to see higher-quality materials, more thoughtful designs, and fixtures from trusted brands known for their reliability. You get a fantastic balance of durability, aesthetic appeal, and price. In this category, you can confidently choose a 2-pack that not only looks great but is also built to last, giving you peace of mind and a beautiful result.
Premium Choices
If you view lighting as a key architectural feature of your home, exploring premium options is well worth it. In this tier, where prices can range from $400 to over $800, you’re investing in superior craftsmanship and design. These fixtures often feature high-end materials like solid brass or marine-grade aluminum, hand-applied finishes, and unique artistic details. Premium lights are more than just functional; they are statement pieces that become part of your home’s overall furniture & décor. Choosing a premium 2-pack is a long-term investment in your property’s style and value.
Where to Find Sales and Deals
Everyone loves a good deal, and with a little planning, you can get high-quality lighting for less. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, especially around holidays or at the end of summer when retailers are clearing out inventory. Signing up for the email newsletters of your favorite lighting stores is another great strategy, as you’ll be the first to know about promotions and exclusive offers. Finally, don’t forget to check if a retailer offers a price match guarantee. This can be an excellent way to ensure you’re getting the best possible price on the exact fixture you want.
Related Articles
- Outdoor Wall Sconce Lighting: A Pro's Guide
- Find the Perfect Outdoor Wall Sconces for Sale
- LED Wall Pack Light Fixtures: The 2024 Buyer's Guide
- Solar Powered Wall Mounted Lights: Ultimate Guide
- Light in Wall: Your Guide to Types & Styles
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should I mount my outdoor wall lights? A great rule of thumb is to hang your lights so the center of the fixture is just above eye level, typically around 66 to 72 inches from the ground. This placement directs light downward onto your path without shining directly into your eyes or the eyes of your guests. If you're placing them next to a door, this height usually looks the most balanced and proportional.
What's the real difference between 'wet-rated' and 'damp-rated' lights? Think of it this way: a "wet-rated" light is built to handle direct exposure to the elements, like rain, snow, and sleet. It's what you need for any fixture that isn't protected by an overhang. A "damp-rated" light, on the other hand, is designed for covered areas that might get moist but won't be directly hit by rain, such as a covered porch or patio. Choosing the right rating is key for safety and making sure your lights last.
Can I put my outdoor lights on a dimmer switch? Yes, you absolutely can, and it’s a wonderful way to control the ambiance! However, you need to make sure both the light fixture and the bulb are compatible with a dimmer. This is especially important with LEDs, as not all of them are dimmable. Always check the product specifications for both the fixture and the bulb before you buy to ensure they’ll work together smoothly.
My front door doesn't have wiring on both sides. Can I still use a 2-pack? Of course! While flanking a door is a classic look, it's not the only way to use a matching pair. You can create a cohesive look across your entire property by installing one light at your front door and the matching fixture at another key spot, like a side entrance, back patio door, or on your garage. This ties your home's exterior style together beautifully.
Are integrated LED lights a good idea, or should I stick with replaceable bulbs? This really comes down to personal preference. Integrated LEDs are fantastic for their sleek, modern designs and the fact that you may never have to change a bulb for the life of the fixture. The downside is that if the light source fails, you often have to replace the whole unit. Fixtures with replaceable bulbs offer more flexibility to change the bulb's brightness or color temperature, and it's a simple fix if one burns out.