We all know that buying and selling a home can be one of the most stressful things we ever do. And if you’re selling your house, it’s extremely important to make sure your home is up to code. Some electrical code violations are illegal, others are dangerous—some are both! There is a major benefit to scheduling an electrical inspection prior to putting your home on the market: you have the ability to correct any electrical code violations ahead of time, which may help in avoiding delays in the negotiation and sale of your home.

Electrical code violations pose serious health and safety risks to anyone in the home. Don’t fall victim to the common wiring problems and mistakes that, left uncorrected, have the potential to cause short circuits, shocks and even fires. Avoid these violations that could cost you your home—and your life:

It’s tuesday April 22nd and Earth Day* celebrations are abounding. Eco-friendly lamps, light fixtures and fabulous accessories are here to help you decorate with an eye on preservation and divine design.

The “Smart Home” of the future is truly within reach.  From aroma-therapy air purification systems and vitamin-C infused showers to LED light sources and recycled decorative illumination, energy-saving and eco-friendly options are in full bloom this year.

1.  Look for ENERGY STAR and Energy SMART products.  Revamp your indoor and outdoor light fixtures with new light sources and smarter control systems.

2.  Invest in sustainable lamps and light fixtures.

3.  Buy less, but buy better.  From Organic Minimalism to Restoration Industrialism, the latest designer lamps and light fixtures may be less ornate, but full on fashion with energy-efficient illumination.

Visit 1800lighting.com or a Capitol Lighting showroom for a glimpse into the latest eco-friendly lighting and decorative accessories, including  new lamps and light fixtures from Hubbardton Forge, Varaluz Lighting, Kichler Lighting and Currey and Company.

Now is the time to do your part to make Earth Day 2014 more than just a fantastic idea, make it a reality and light consciously and proficiently with style.

*The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) was born on December 2, 1970 and the first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970.  President Nixon’s 1970 State of the Union Address was flooded with concern for clean air, clean water and a concerted effort for the federal government to “transform” the land.

We celebrate Earth Day every year on April 22nd as the government continues to consolidate efforts for a cleaner environment, but it is really up to each individual to transform their own home with energy-efficient and eco-friendly products.

Top pics for Earth Day include:

The “Elkmont” collection from Currey and Company

The “Modern Loft” table lamp from Pacific Coast Lighting

The “Argyle” pendant from Varaluz Lighting

“Natural Rope” chandelier from Landmark Lighting

 Illuminate anything from skateboards to yard games, and transform them into unique, eye-catching displays that you can use anywhere. single colors or

Perfect for tailgating or late-night stargazing—portable LED light strips make the perfect truck bed lights. They’re easy to install and are a great way to add colorful illumination without having to do any vehicle wiring. Adhere the strips to your truck bed with their adhesive backings, and mount the battery pack in a covered location so that it’s not exposed to water.

Let your little one ride in style with LED strip lights on their wagon, stroller, or ride-on Power Wheels vehicle. These portable LED lights are super simple to install and can be set to one of many exciting single-color or color-changing modes. They will not only capture the attention of your baby, but they’ll also provide increased safety and visibility for evening walks or events.

From movie, theater, or extravagant Halloween props to models and costume figures—portable LED strips lights will take your project to the next level. They’re available in several shades of white as well as pink, UV, blue, green, yellow, amber, red, or color-changing RGB to match any theme or design.

Decorate your skateboard or scooter with LED strip lights, and differentiate yourself from the crowd. The portable LED lights are easy to apply, and you can use the wireless RF remote to control single-color or color-changing modes while you ride.

Brighten up your next tailgate party or camping trip! Install portable LED strip lights on canopy tents, sun shelters, instant canopies, pop-up shelters, or E-Z UP Instant Shelters. A variety of colors are available—including “Bugs-Away” yellow—and the strip lights provide up to 402 lumens of illumination.

With portable LED strip lights, you can create a lighted wreath, garland, or other holiday decor that’s unlike anything storebought. Colors are available for every holiday, and the attention-grabbing strip lights have several modes from flash to strobe to fade and more.